Ah, a lovely share that I can relate too.

Well, many years ago since I am closer to 3/4 century than 1/2 century.

The buying power of a dollar, inflation rate, mortgage rate and return on investments.

Your in US so spend your dollars today in case its buying power goes down tomorrow.

In 1980, Canada mortgage and savings rate were at all time high. Inflation was moving up quickly and we all knew it would not come down as fast. Similarly in USA cause, When it comes to economics, your the trend setters. Luckily my union raises were going up as well. If you needed something, it was just as wise to buy it right away and maybe more cause the price was going to be another 10-15% higher in a few weeks. I was also able to take some profit off the table from some investments.

Almost 50 years later and I can see much similarities today with the exception of some nations, companies and communities being better prepare for unknowns unfolding all over the world.

A house is a costly investment where one can feed a money pit or be comforted with an effective security blanket. That is, if you look after your blanket.

A good roof, lots of insulation, great windows and well working heating and cooling system is top priority for a home owner. The longer you wait to do these things the more expensive it will be later and if you don't do it , your resell price will have a much lower starting point. All the extras will not get top dollars.

My wife is much more conservative than I am so things don't happen without my spreadsheet being well scrutinized. She doesn't like to borrow and now I am trying to convince her it is time to sell a rental property we own. The capital gain is more valuable than the monthly income because of tenant laws limiting rent increases.

Best of luck with your decision process. Not easy to make decision when you have to manage two brains. If you know what I mean. !LOLZ