No SD, you are not the only one–good for you–and I like sp’s comments also–spot on.
We see this type of behavior with people we know of also, and wonder what in the world they are thinking.
Although we invested heavily in real estate in San Diego and other places many years ago, and have tons of equity in those properties today, it’s just not in our DNA to live the way you described.
Separate and apart from other investments we’re involved in, we wanted to have seven figures stashed by the time we were 50, and have no regrets in doing so. Even then, we have still been able to enjoy life along the way.
Many people want what they want when they want
it–whether they can afford it or not. For some, that may work out, for others it will be a disaster. Guess they are placing their bets and taking their chances.