[jhynesrockmtn]

I have a good friend who has always based his "budget" for buying a house, car, etc. on what payment he could afford. I assume that came from his Dad as his mother would be destitute if it wasn't for her grandson stepping up and building and apartment in his home for her. I think his wife finally talked some sense into him. They sold their big house several years ago and bought a smaller fixer.

I was worried about my son when he was younger. I thought he might end up the same. Nope, He's 30, in the military, both he and his wife make good money. They own 2 homes (one rental) with good equity, drive paid for used cars, put a good amount away for retirement. My daughter and her husband are in a similar boat. It's a relief to have kids who I don't worry about wanting to move back home in their 30s.