If you’re looking to get your parents to help you buy a home, it’s important to be as convincing as possible. One of the best ways to do that is by staying within your means.

Instead of going out and finding the most expensive house on the block, find a nice affordable home that your parents won’t be nervous about helping you purchase. As a great rule of thumb, be sure that all of your debt is below 38% of your monthly income. Make this point to your parents so they’ll see that you are doing your part to be responsible in your house hunt.