Income + Lifestyle = Mortgage Payment

The formula for successfully getting into a comfortable mortgage payment is not complicated.  In fact, you don't need a fancy amortization chart or even one of those online calculators that don't do a very good job of showing real world scenarios.

All you need to do is sit down with a competent real estate professional and honestly discuss your income level and living expenses. 

During this conversation with an experienced professional...be sure to take into account future considerations like: children, add-ons, amenities or fix-ups.  Your dream home is certainly worth a sacrifice but don’t mortgage your entire future.