Compare payment, total interest, term, and the costs a simple loan model leaves out.
The trade-off in a longer term
Extending a loan term usually lowers the scheduled payment but gives interest more time to accumulate. Compare both the monthly payment and total paid rather than optimizing only for short-term affordability.
Rate details matter
A standard amortizing loan calculation assumes a fixed periodic rate and equal payments. Variable rates, fees, insurance, taxes, balloon payments, and different compounding conventions can change the actual cost.
Leave room in the budget
An affordable plan should also consider emergency savings, income stability, other debts, and future expenses. A lender's maximum offer is not necessarily a suitable personal budget. For a binding quote, use the lender's official disclosure.