Debt to Asset Ratio Questions

[Gareth Fisher]

Hey guys,

   Been looking around and trying to do some research on debt risk.   The only measurement I could find was debt to asset ratio.   I want to make sure as I take on buy and holds that I am not putting my family at risk.     I have decided to keep 4-5 months cash reserves for every property I own.  4-5 months for my own personal budget.     I however am not sure how much leverage is to much.   Is the debt to asset ratio a good metric for this.  Mine came in at .55    which I was told is a good place to be.      I understand the basics good debt vs bad argument.   I just want to make sure I don't take on too much debt.