While home ownership is a great flex to have, you can build equity, substantial equity at that, in other investment opportunities that don’t require high costs and/or debt.

This is by no means a dig to home ownership - I encourage anybody with the appropriate financial means to own a home. This is for those that may be looking for a way to increase their net worth while also avoiding incurring high debt (especially if you already have debt).

IMO, you should keep track of your net worth by taking the difference of what you OWN (home, vehicle, 401(k)/roth IRAs, cash on hand, investment portfolios, etc.) from what you OWE & sticking to a plan to improve upon that.

Here are some ways to improve your net worth without incurring more debt:
*build & stick to a realistic budget
*build a debt-free plan (low-to-high is my preferred method)
*invest in life insurance policies - pref. whole life policies (def. while you’re young & healthy)

*max out retirement contributions (if you can afford to do so. if not, at least match employer contributions)
*save, save, save (savings should be included now your budget - I list my savings as a fixed expense in my budget)
*create more income
(business owner = equity)

be mindful that the process to financial freedom & a high net worth is timely & trying but dedication will see you through. stick to your script & practice discernment about who you share your finances with (aside from biz partners and/or fin. advisor).