Ok...I have looked high and low and think I finally found the answer I was looking for. What I am hoping is that it is not just the answer that fits my needs 
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When it comes to DTI calculations, do lenders look at the total DTI calculation or the monthly obligation to these debts? I have seen conflicting information, but I have seen some pretty good evidence that the actual ratios are built off of the monthly obligations (i.e. regular loan payments and minimum credit card payments). If so, this would be the optimal situation for me since it will get me much closer to the optimal front/back ratios.
A couple of other questions - Do I calculate rent into my front-end calculations? And if so, what if the mortgage I am looking to pay will be 60-75% of that amount....does that help my back-end figure?
Thanks in advance....learning tons in just a couple of weeks!!!
