We have some big news this week—news you might not have expected (and yes, we might be a little crazy). We also talk about how we managed to pay off our mortgage, and how the decisions we made more than a decade ago with our first house helped make that possible. In this episode we cover what not to pass down to your kids (some surprising items no longer make good heirlooms), the cost of our first house, and how the mortgage on our third home ended up being smaller than our first.
You can download this episode from Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, and TuneIn Radio—or listen to it using the embedded player below. Use this page for any links, notes, or photos we mentioned. If you’re reading in a feed reader you may need to click through to the post to see the player.
What’s New
- We’ve purchased another property—just one house away from the pink one. In the episode we explain how and why we bought it and how we were able to afford the purchase. We’ll follow up soon with a full post and a video tour that shows everything in detail.
- We also noticed a nearby duplex that has us dreaming about exterior colors and finishes. We’ve been picturing mint-green shutters and doors, or wooden doors with classic shutters, and we’ll likely change our minds many times before deciding. Inspiration photos and ideas will appear in the full post.
- We’ve been imagining the exterior finishes because the current interior gives us a lot to work with. Below are photos of the main living area on one side of the duplex and the kitchen, which is tucked into what used to be a side porch.
- There’s much more to show. We plan to film a video tour and publish a detailed post with paint choices, plans, and next steps.
What’s Not
- We discussed items you might want to avoid passing down to future generations—things that can become a burden rather than a treasured heirloom.
- We also covered a short list of five investment pieces that do make great future heirlooms—quality items worth buying and keeping for the long term.
Paying Off Our Mortgage
- We go into a lot of specifics in the podcast, including the cost of our first house and how the mortgage on our third house ended up being smaller than the first. A key move early on was refinancing our first house, which reduced our payment by about $430 per month. That saved amount was then applied toward principal, helping us pay the loan down much faster.
- Another lesson we’ve mentioned before is that buying below your means—especially when self-employed—can be a powerful financial strategy. When possible, choosing a shorter mortgage term, like a 15-year loan, is another way to save interest and build equity faster.
- Small lifestyle choices added up too. We had a modest backyard wedding that cost under $4,000, and we’ve been sharing one car for many years. Those choices reduced expenses and freed up cash to direct toward the mortgage.
- We’ve also shared many practical money-saving posts over the years that can help if you want to follow a similar path: ideas for cutting cable, staying debt-free, trimming recurring expenses, DIY haircuts, and intentional spending through tougher times. Those posts collect practical tips we used to lower monthly costs and accelerate savings.
- In recent episodes we’ve also talked with a money coach, shared top negotiating tips, and discussed specific calls and actions that saved us significant amounts on everyday bills. Small, consistent actions compound over time.
We’re Digging
- We highlighted a selection of shelf bracket options we like, including the ones currently in our kitchen. These range from classic to modern styles to suit different decor plans.
- We also shared a useful bathtub drain stopper that solves problems with older tubs that don’t hold water well.
If you’re trying to find something we mentioned in a past episode but don’t remember where, we maintain a master list of topics, products, and recommendations covered across our shows.
Finally, we want to thank Universal Furniture for sponsoring this episode. They’re offering an opportunity to win $10,000 in new dining room furniture during the promotion period.
Thanks for listening—your support means a lot to us.
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