Plus, there’s no stress when those expenses do come up because the money is already there.My other suggestion would be to use CASH envelopes for any discretionary expenses, like groceries, fun money, vices, date nights, clothing, etc.

I've found that to be about right in my own limited experience, give or take.What's left after all that is actually your profit. 30 years is a long, long time (and on the other hand, life is short baby!).

@Ross Bowman when the gov’t will lend you money for 3% a year I’ll take all the money they can give me.Leverage baby

Have a budget for your money, be disciplined, don't be a consumer (expensive clothes, cars, etc), save, invest. 

I am one of the younger baby boomers, sometimes referred to as Generation X. 

Though I rarely agree with Dave Ramsey, his baby step approach of a debt snow could be used with a goal snowball.

Just had our first baby and looking to simplify my life a little so taking the equity and doing something back in Georgia is tempting .

I have 2 units and supply all the appliances,(fridge, stove, garbage disposal, dish washer, clothes washer and dryer).It makes me feel better knowing they are properly installed (no extension cords with a 6 plug adapter running microwave, toaster oven, coffee maker, fridge, etc...) and well maintained.

In the USA wealthy people do not need to be benefactors to pull someone out of situations like this.We have in place a system of welfare, where the needy can get free food, school lunches for their kids, (free housing = Section-8), free clothing, free spending money (what used to be called Obama phones = free cellular).

Looking to start a family in a year though, and can't have a baby and live with 5 other folks.