People like to say Dave Ramsey's advice is outdated or doesn't work, but we just paid off our house in our early 40s and it has absolutely worked for us. The key is being able to stay humble and say "no" to the consumption culture. We are still in our regional airline house that's nice but definitely not a "major airline captain" mansion. All kids have a room and walk to good schools and we have great neighbors. We followed Dave's advice, took out a 15 year mortgage and made extra payments along the way. So now no payments other than taxes and utilities and the peace of mind is real.

And yes I understand math and interest rates, and we have plenty invested outside of our primary residence already.

Of course the best decision I've made so far was marrying a great woman who's frugal and happy without needing all the new shiny things.