Credit=Strong DownPay=20% DTI=High = :( Options?

[Alfredo Sanchez]

Hello BP Community, I’m looking to take that “first step” but unfortunately when i tried applying for a pre-approval i was denied due to my hIgh debt to income ratio. I minor set back or maybe a slap in the face by reality? I’m hoping this group can give me some clarity and hopefully guidance in working around my DTI ratio. I’m in my late 20s and I’d be co-signing with my father on this possible future mortgage. Possible investment property of which I’d be using as a rental property. Credit: Both my fathers credit and my credit are above 740 Down Payment: Would be 20% WITH GIFT Debt: Both my father and myself have debt lower than $1,000. Ive also thought about refinancing my fathers current home which is paid off to maybe pay a bigger down payment for another house? Include possible rental income into my personal income? Where do i go from here? Keep saving? Get a new job? Co-sign with someone with a higher income? Any help will be much appreciated on this journey. Thank You