Yes, that's true. While I'm fairly risk tolerant in my personal life, I'm not with finances. I invest in index funds and prioritize cash flow. I would rather spend a fixed amount up front for a guaranteed "dividend" (benefit) than be leveraged with more money in the bank.

For example, after my home is paid off, I'll probably explore a solar roof to reduce my monthly utility expenses. What's the payoff, like 10-15 years? But knowing I can survive on a small, relatively fixed amount each month means I have more security and flexibility. It's approaching the same goal, just in a different way.

But I also bought my (latest and probably last) home in late 2022. I have a 7.5% interest rate or something, so, you know, not a particularly difficult decision in my case.