The cost of austerity

It's amazing to me how most people don't recognise this and just accept it. Surely there's a better way...

Yes. It is called living within your means. Buy a small or very inexpensive house on a 15 year mortgage. Pay it off in 7 (add money every month to apply to principle). Use that money to do the same on a house that is more suited to your needs. Own your home outright.
Be smart when you are young and lifetime mortgage is a non issue. However. :-) You only ever rent your property from the state via property taxes. Bummer, but it is a fact.

Never be afraid to lose it ALL. Fear is what keeps the cogs turning. :-) Life happens (happy and or otherwise) whether we are homeowners or not. Be happy with wherever you are in life.

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Well when the government over here in the UK think that a £250,000 house is an affordable house for the first-time buyer, what hope is there?

Ouchy. That is completely insane. But ... it is so pretty .. and tiny ... there lol Over here, first time buyer houses for most of America ... $150,000 But that is way high end for my tastes.

Just noticed. Yes. I did say ouchy. That comes from talking to children all day. My apologies lol

semi-true story