"To afford the payments" means to have enough money or resources to make regular payments towards something, such as a loan or monthly bills. Full definition
Get a three year car loan (if ya can't afford the payments on a three year loan you can't afford the car, buy a less expensive one). (getrichslowly.org)
The last thing you want is to get under contract only to learn you can't afford the payments on the home. (realtor.com)
If a homeowner can not afford payments for the home or personal debts, where is the money to pay for repairs and maintenance supposed to come from? (usprobateleads.com)