My mortgage is gone, too.

only way I could afford to retire. Which I will well before age 60.


Now, people used to throw mortgage-burning parties where they watched their paid-up mortgage turn into smoke . .

nowadays, you are a financial outlier if you pick this route.

Several people told us that paying the mortgage off was a terrible move. A financial planner, and a well-meaning relative with many great investments.

But having your money in your house - and the freedom it gives you to live life - is what some choose.