sdr,
Chris can probably afford to have his priorities alligned that way. Good for him. Lots of people who can don’t and personally I would hold them up as a shining examples of individuals with well organized priorites too. More people can’t afford Chris’s priorities or really shouldn’t try to.
Also, I read his posts on his blog yesterday and he is quite proud of his timing and value swap from his previous ownership. He did what he did based on his opinions of proper timing. I don’t see where that is so different from what others here are trying to do.
I think we all acknowlege the warm, fuzzy, special component of home ownership but we don’t need to be told what weight of perspective to apply to it, anymore than we need to be told how to dress or what to drive.
My opinion is that until someone is pretty well off they had better make good investing compatible with renting or home ownership and remodeling too. I also understand that you are speaking to an audience here that won’t face financial collapse for a bad investment in a house so you get some sympathy there.
As Bugs did, I suppose it is fair to say that I still own my home and for many of the reasons that you and Chris point out.It is nicer than what we need and I have made it that way(although I am sure it is nothing special to many piggingtonians). It also has potential aside from appreciation in the market.If not I would sell it. Does that mean I think other people should do what I do. Absolutely not.