I looked at it....It seemed like way to get better returns than a CD would ever give me, and (though I'm ashamed to admit now that I let emotion lead me in this decision) it was a way to help a family-friend-plus-kid stay in the family home after a divorce.

And don’t be ashamed of where you’re at.

You said in another thread your dad is a successful investor, don't be ashamed to take advantage of your situation.

. :-)It's a shame because I learned a lot about cap rate from Bob.Cheers...

The idea of evaluating decisions against "the public" is a shame principle. 

It would be a shame to chase ROI into an area where you get screwed by your agent and buy in the wrong neighborhood, get screwed by your contractor on the renovation, and get screwed by your property manager on the tenant management and maintenance.Rule No. 1: Never lose money.

It's a shame that this area has become such an expensive place to invest in property!

What a shame.

I'm ashamed that in the thousands I've spent, and massive action I've taken that I have been mostly unsuccessful. 

If you have a good interest rate it is kind of a shame to payoff early, but living mortgage free is a worthy goal.