First of all, property is still a good investment in many areas. A few West Coast cities and DC with mini-bubbles are the exception not the norm. Secondly, if paying off early helps you to qualify for financing on a “second home” that’s a rental, I say have at it.
Lastly, having a $400,000 home that you only pay taxes, utilities and repair costs, can rent out at 7-8% profit, and quit your job to bum around Thailand on the proceeds would be niiiiiice. Basically, being in the position to scream “FUCK YOU, I’M OUTTA HERE FOR A YEAR, TRY AND STOP ME, YOU DUMB DONKEY-PENIS!!!” in your boss’s face is a beautiful thing.
