It sure is strange how things change. Years ago it was the American Dream to buy a home and then work hard to pay off the mortgage. Remember in the movies they actually used to burn the mortgage note as a sign of freedom from that huge burden of a mortgage payment. Look at us now. We can hardly wait until we get some equity (value) built up in the home so we can run down to the bank and get a home equity loan or refinance for some cash-out or get a second mortgage.All so we can go out and run up more debt and buy more toys. Is there anyone out there who still believes in the ideal of getting rid of that mortgage payment for good? We are sure there are still some out there but now you are not considered a financially smart person to do such a crazy and foolish thing. Kind of makes you wonder why it feels so great to be so stupid? Have a great weekend.