I think if we all could get to the point where our mortgages are paid off, we could not have to be making endless paychecks just to survive.....
earn less, spend less, but pay less taxes as well....
My primary residence is free and clear. I took my 2005 income tax refund and purchased another house. My middle son is living there right now in preference to the high cost San Diego area. Alas, that means another mortgage payment. I would have to see that house and my 2008 Mercury Mariner to be debt free to the point that I could float along with little income.