[Crowbob]

I had my very modest house newly-built. Made a deal with the contractor/zoning/building code people/etc. to build the smallest house I could realistically enjoy living in and only as minimally complete as possible to allow final occupancy while specifying the use of mostly lower grade materials (inexpensive flooring, carpeting, cabinetry, etc) but super-insulated and structurally robust.

Upper level was unfinished as was the basement; zero landscaping, no decks, and no garage. Over the following 20 years or so I had continuous projects finishing, upgrading and improving the house paying cash along the way.

Bottom line, per current RE prices, I've tripled the value with zero debt. In the current environment it would cost me double at minimum just to rent a comparable place even if there were such a place available.

Many times over the years I've said I'd never do it again. Now, however, my necessities cost under $2k/mo. and that includes utilities, taxes, insurance, food and healthcare.

Looking back, I've actually had a second career in home improvement.