What can you actually afford? Without filling out a credit app.
See what fits, what to skip, and which Fords on the lot today match your real budget. No score check. Your number goes to one phone — mine.
- Zero credit pulls
- Uses the 15% rule
- No data sold to lenders
Your budget
Numbers only — no credit, no name, no email.After taxes. Household total if a partner is on the loan.
Rent or mortgage + credit-card minimums + other loans. Not utilities or groceries.
Shorter term = stricter budget, less total interest.
Best guess is fine — Mike checks actual rates before any offer. No credit pull happens here.
Most lenders flag total debt-to-income over 43%. You're well inside.
Want the exact Fords that fit?
Estimate only. Mike confirms the locked number in writing before you drive anywhere.
Three budget zones.
Where your money goes.
- Fixed $2,400
- Car $975
- Insurance + gas $230
- Left over $2,895
At 8.5% APR · $0 paid over 60 mo · $0 in interest
$0 vehicle + $0 tax + $0 fees
Fords that fit your comfort budget. 3 from today's lot
The 15% rule — and why it matters
- 01 What it is.
Financial advisors recommend your car payment stay under 15% of your monthly take-home. If you make $6,000/month after taxes, that's $900 max.
- 02 What dealerships do.
F&I desks are trained to stretch you to "what your credit allows," not what your budget allows. They make more when you finance a $50K SUV than a $30K one — even if both have you on the road safely.
- 03 Why the stretch hurts later.
The $750/month payment that fits today breaks when the kid needs braces, the AC dies, or the job changes.
Common questions before you text me
Send my budget + matching Fords.
Three real cars on the lot today that hit your comfort number — emailed to you, not a lead network.
Your numbers go to my phone — never a lender or a lead network.
FAQ
Will using this tool affect my credit score?
Zero impact. Nothing here pulls credit. This is math, not a loan application.
What counts as "monthly debt"?
Minimum payments on credit cards, student loans, other car loans, alimony/child support. Not utilities or groceries.
Do I include my spouse's income?
Only if you're putting them on the loan too. Otherwise, just yours.
Why is your "max budget" lower than the bank's pre-approval?
Because banks approve you for what you can technically pay — not what you should pay. There's a difference, and it's why people end up upside-down.
Can I really get a Ford in my budget?
Almost always, yes. The 2024 Maverick starts at $24K. The Escape starts at $29K. We have used inventory under $20K weekly. I'll show you what fits.