If I’m not obligated to pay the mortgage according to the divorce decree

No the mortgage payment does not count against your Debt to Income Ratio (DTI) as long as the divorce decree or other court issued document states that your ex-spouse is required to pay the mortgage. However, if payments are missed or late your credit scores will be effected, and in most cases this will impact your rate or the cost of the loan significantly. This is why it’s very important to keep track of your credit report. This might seem like something small, but it could cost you thousands over the life of your loan!

Scott Evans, CCIM, CRMS, founder of The Family Mortgage Team, which offers tools needed to easily understand and compare home financing and refinancing options. Visit his website for more information.