Whenever you look for financial advice, you probably see articles that advise you to avoid debt. In fact, I’ve written a lot about that here on this site. In fact, getting out and staying out of debt is a common characteristic that is listed among those who have reached millionaire status.
With that being said, it is becoming increasingly difficult – if not impossible for some – to get a college education or buy a house without borrowing money. College tuition continues to escalate, putting the funding of it out of reach for those families who did not start saving early enough. So many turn to the federal student loan program to fund part or all of their college education.
Additionally, many see renting as “throwing away money.” I’m not one that subscribes to that. There are times when renting is the wisest choice. But it’s a hard mental hurdle to overcome. A mortgage where you can have a forced savings plan by paying yourself each month through the reduction of the principal, seems like the best course of action.
In many people’s eyes, the two types of debt listed above are considered “good debt.” In other words, they are the type of debt that can lead to further benefits down the road. Let’s explore that concept some more. And let’s look at some tips that can help you know when it might not be such a bad idea to borrow and how to manage the debt that you have.