5 BIG Purchases Retirees (Almost) Always Regret!

[@foundryfinancial]

Any big purchases that you regret?

[@lucieciepka1031]

One thing I took from your video is “you can’t buy back your 20’s and 30’s”. That Van trip around the states that you dream for in your 20’s… with the pay increase you changed it to a yacht in your 30’s… all that time you spent at work instead of going to the playground with your kids… you can’t buy it back and kudos to the people who convinced you, you can!

[@kzarz0219]

My ex..hahaha

[@coniccinoc]

I always wanted a new, fast sports car. Before I retired, I bought a real beauty. Spent more time washing it than driving, it was like I bought an assignment. Took up valuable space in the garage, drained money from insurance while depreciating in value. Sold it after 4 months. It did give me a much higher appreciation for the comfort and practicality of my everyday sedan.

[@uncareid5557]

@@coniccinoc I bought a nice gently used Lexus. My reward after 40 years in construction driving beat up noisy trucks. $40K well spent!

[@randomstuff-qu7sh]

My biggest regret was when I got addicted to a pay to win game. I spent stupid amounts of money on pixels because I was in a toxic work environment, getting verbally crapped on every day, and being a big shot in that game allowed me to feel good about myself. I regret the wasted money, and the 7 years it took to pay off the credit card debt from spending money I didn’t have on that game. With 20/20 hindsight, I can see the predatory tricks the game used to rope me in and keep me spending. Now that I’m mentally in a better place, those tricks don’t work anymore.

[@simeon2851]

A simple life. A small home. The basics. Things you can never regret.

[@eyesuckle]

The amazing thing is that simeon2851 has gained such wisdom at such a young age. Judging from his photo, he couldn't be more than eight years old!

[@simeon2851]

@@eyesuckle 😀😀😀😀😀 Am a progerian.

[@RoddieSimmons]

Moving to my wife's Senior Retirement Home in her native Brazil with my 96 year old Brazilian 2nd. mother. All the properties are one floor (no falling down the stairs like my fathers home in New England) We own and built the entire complex in the far northeast, so there is no reverse mortgage or ridiculous American retirement home investment. We built a third home for our live-in caretaker and her family, so that even though we are in our 50's, 60's when we get older we already have someone in place to care for us.😎

[@Rj-dq1qe]

I agree 100%. I owned a condo on the ocean in Myrtle Beach, SC till the summer of 2017. It was going to be where I was going to retire. After 3 years.......I decided that I did not want to live there any longer and I wasn't happy. Found out that it was the large amount of people that was bothering me. Now, I live in a small town in Iowa with 300 people, surrounded by corn and soybean fields, and a small hospital I can work at. I "rent" a one-bedroom duplex. I'm happy. I have one a couple more years to pay the Jeep off (that I didn't need either. I just wanted it) and that is it. With what I am going to collect from social security I can live on that alone.....lol.

[@RoddieSimmons]

@@Rj-dq1qe Sounds Great! Say hello to the corn and soybean for me.😎

[@randomstuff-qu7sh]

Honestly, I think the happiness one gets from money is freedom from the stress and insecurity of not having enough.

[@richardsanchez5444]

I just went to a metal festival this last weekend and it made me very happy. I was only able to do that cuz of money. So while money alone might not be the thing that makes you happy it sure as hell buys you things that can.

[@carolphillips8802]

Yes. A rich uncle of mine once told me that money isn't everything. My only thought was about the bills for essential services that we frequently couldn't pay on time. We rented for decades, creating so much chronic (and often acute) stress and insecurity. We own our own home now, thanks to an inheritance, but the (lovely) garden is high-maintenance. We are managing much better now, however. Still much better to have the security of our own home. Much, much better.

[@georgelush1998]

Spot on. Having money enables me to make my own decisions and not have other people make decisions for me.

[@bobevans9996]

doesn't the giving money to son n creating dependency n his last tip investing in others/charity - like giving to family or charity - charities cheat n never leave u alone that's their dependency on u - it can be temple church any org not only a son say can do that to u person or org - same pit falls dangers

[@travelnomad2128]

True! Not worrying how to pay your bills is truly liberating. To me, money truly buys happiness w/c to me is traveling, dining out occasionally, going to the movies, cruising, etc.

[@Spartacus-pq5yp]

I did the exact opposite when I retired. I downgraded sharply, sold my house, helped all my children become home owners. My biggest expense in retirement is concerts. Happy for my decisions, and happy in my little one floor house.

[@foundryfinancial]

What’s the best concert you’ve been to? Also, I think helping your kids get a home is smart.

[@Spartacus-pq5yp]

@@foundryfinancial In the 70's I had a fantastic time with Led Zeppelin, Queen, Santana, Pink Floyd but the best time I had at a Kiss concert at The Forum and Elton John at Dodger Stadium. In the 80's my memory is stuck on a Genesis concert at Dodger Stadium and Asia at the Long Beach Sports Arena, and AC/DC and the Police at The Los Angeles Sports Arena. Too many to enumerate. Most recently, I had a great time at free concerts by Maroon 5 and Imagine Dragons in San Antonio, Muse at The Moody Center and Alice in Chains at The Alamodome. Looking back, I think I have been very fortunate to have seen many acts in their prime and otherwise. I wish I had saved that money! Lol

[@noshrinkingviolet007]

Amen! I'm not near retirement age yet but recently purchased a home and stayed on the low end of my budget and so glad I did. Homeowning without the stress and being house-poor.

[@azmike3572]

There's a T-shirt you can buy online which reads: "I May be Old, but I Got to See All the Cool Bands".

[@johncassens1821]

Awesome Congratulations on your wise decisions and may you have a long healthy stress free life.

[@scroungasworkshop4663]

Can I add: The most important thing to spend money on is your health because if you not healthy you can’t enjoy life.

[@foundryfinancial]

Great point! Thanks for sharing.

[@cynthiaborden4209]

Amen!!!!

[@patty109109]

Yep, never be afraid to spend money on good food, workout equipment, etc.

[@leonardmilcin7798]

More like spend money to eat healthy and have time for running each day. Cheaper and more effective than modern medicine.

[@tealkerberus748]

A common myth. But here I am, disabled and living with multiple chronic pain conditions, and I still enjoy life. Sure, I'd enjoy it more if I could have my health back. If you have your health, treasure it! But don't write off the lives of people with chronic illnesses. We're not dead yet. Life is still sweet.

[@Bobrogers99]

The BEST thing I did was to build my dream home. After my parents passed on, I found myself maintaining a big, old farmhouse with acres of lawn and gardens which required hours and hours of work every week. I subdivided the property, sold the farmhouse, and I had a small retirement home built to my specifications next to the brook. Even 22 years later the place requires only minimal maintenance and costs so much less to heat! My yard is naturalized, and now my time is my own.

[@marycrawford9428]

This. My dream house would be small but beautiful, in a friendly place.

[@faithl4105]

WOW!! Extremely smart decision! 👏🏻

[@kameljoe21]

@@marycrawford9428 We are hoping to build a new house in the next several years. We are going to build a kinda duplex. Where there are 2 "apartments" on both ends and a master kitchen and storage area in the middle. 2500square feet which is enough to support 2 nice 700 square foot apartments and 1100 square foot kitchen and storage area/maintenance area. This way we can always share half of the house with our live in Chef and or Maid.

[@StressLessFinancial]

It sounds like your decision to downsize and customize your home has been incredibly rewarding! How has this change in your living situation influenced your daily life and overall retirement experience?

[@Bobrogers99]

@@StressLessFinancial Living in a small, easy to maintain house gives me the freedom to use my time the way I want. I can travel, and just having a neighbor check on the place from time to time I don't have to worry that the pipes will freeze or the roof will leak. The house is all on one level, with an ensuite bath that has grab bars for when I become more tottery. Vinyl siding means no painting chores, and the naturalized lawn means very little mowing to do. And all at a lower monthly cost!

[@Roy-ij1wq]

I remember when my mother was 72 years old and moved into a brand new condo where she could choose options while it was still being framed. She declined spending $50 extra for ceiling fan boxes and wiring, declined to have the builder install blocking for grab bars, declined to put in pull down shelves in the upper kitchen cabinets, and declined to upgrade the door handles to levers. Needless to say, she regreted not doing these things over the last 25 years of her life. If you build your dream house and want to make it your forever home, build it for the body you will have in the future and not the body you have now.

[@foundryfinancial]

Well said!

[@jerrybessetteDIY]

Also make sure the home's entries and bathrooms and showers are wheelchair accessible. Even if you are still young,

[@Roy-ij1wq]

@@jerrybessetteDIY I going through that now with a major renovation. The master bath is getting a 4'x5' curbless shower and a 36" pocket door entry. A handicap accessible toilet with bidet are also included. It will currently have two vanities, one of which can be easily be converted to a wheelchair accessible sink. The bedroom door is also being enlarged from 30" to 32".

[@allanfifield8256]

"blocking for grab bars" If you are a couple or single, you will eventually need these/.

[@davepaturno4290]

And not having stairs because you think you won't be able to use them is often a self-fulfilling prophesy that accelerates a decline in exercise, shortening your life. My Dad climbed steep stairs in his house until his death at 88. Blue Zone centenarians often keep their legs strong by climbing hills and gardening. Certainly, the things you mention may be needed and helpful, but adequate physical and mental activities should be included.

[@robedmund9948]

To avoid regret from buying a travel trailer in retirement, my wife and I bought one while we were still working. It has brought us great joy and happiness in the past ten years. In retirement, it will continue to do so, but it has been paid off for years. As for the boat, the 2 happiest days for any boat owner are the day he buys it, and the day he sells it.

[@markp.7165]

I would say the complete opposite. I see camping as dragging a giant suitcase including the dirty dishes along with me on my vacation. A suitcase that could have a flat tire out on I95 and one that requires me to drive a gas guzzling pickup in order to pull it down the highway. I owned a boat for many years and I don't regret a single dollar I ever spent on it. Like you the memories we made during those years made every dollar spent worth it. I would instead say different strokes for different folks.

[@luv2sail66]

Having owned a very nice 33 foot sailboat, it’s an expensive hobby. Boats are giant holes in the water in which you pour money. Winterizing, spring commissioning, maintenance, it adds up fast. It worked for us because we both were still working and could afford the costs. But we spent pretty much every summer weekend on the boat because we’d already invested so much. We missed out on many other fun activities because of that.

[@picklerix6162]

We bought a pop up camper and we used it quite a bit and have many good memories with my children. The pop up was cheaper and much easier to tow. My neighbors bought huge trailers and regretted it.

[@sharons5714]

We bought our RV before retirement, too. We owned it outright and traveled in it extensively until my husband passed away. Absolutely no regrets.

[@DouglasRamirez-dj7sd]

LMFAO 😁

[@tompekarna]

Wife died of pancreatic cancer, grief purchased a Porsche. had it now 10 years and still lifts my spirit when i drive it. So not all purchases done for the wrong reason end up being loosers.

[@foundryfinancial]

Sorry to hear about your wife, but that’s a great counter point. Thanks for sharing.

[@davepaturno4290]

I bought a 2024 GR Supra 45th Anniversary that I ALWAYS look forward to driving. Thankfully, I live in a city in which sportscar events are numerous and well-attended. The crowds consist of people of all ages who share the love of driving sportscars.

[@deepakahuja3413]

Well done - keep the spirit going !!

[@johndough1218]

Love cars!

[@StevenTierney-zj1ok]

I bought a Corvette convertible at age 61 and have never regretted it. Wanted it since I was a teenager but could never afford one. Paid cash for it and never looked back.

[@BobDiaz123]

Now that I'm retired, there were several things I'm glad I got: (1) A one year pass at the local city pool. There's an exercise class for seniors that's part exercise and part social. (2) Tablo DVR and outside TV Antenna. A lot of the TV channels have additional channels that air shows of the 1960s through the 1980s. It's fun to watch the old shows. (3) Membership and volunteering at the local museum. Once a week I'm a tour guide at the local train museum. I get to meet people for all over the world and share with them the history of our trains. (4) Going out to eat. There are a number of good restaurants that are not expensive and have good food. (5) Membership in local clubs. This is both socal and fun. (6) Mini-trips. There are so many places within a day's drive that make for a short and fun 3-4 day trip.

[@foundryfinancial]

Thanks for sharing! I love having an over the air antenna.

[@robsonalcantara2939]

Awesome. I am 51 year old preparin to retiringin 10 to 15 years, live in Brazil, and I loved the things you do.

[@doug2078]

Great List !! I retired almost 3 years ago . Love It !! I love my outside TV Antenna ! Watch Leave it to Beaver every morning LOL !! Enjoy

[@BobDiaz123]

@@robsonalcantara2939 Before you retire, decide what things you like to do. Some people retire and have no idea what to do with their free time.

[@freeagent8225]

Yes, I'm a member of the pool in Australia, 11.5$ a week, best money I spend, swim 6 days per week. Great for mental health😅.

[@carolynjaynes36]

I live FT in my new RV and I love it. No mortgage, a paid for home, no furniture to buy, and I'm able to go anywhere I want. I'm a minimalist so it works great for me. I know it's not for everyone, but I'm secure in retirement in this arrangement. I live in nature and garden in a community garden. I start seeds on my sunny patio and eat my harvest!

[@foundryfinancial]

That sounds like a great situation for you!

[@herringtonsfarm2622]

I’d do this if I was able to

[@robingow7276]

I’m less than a minute in and I hear “ one more thing to take care of” it’s just so true!

[@kixigvak]

I'm 75 and don't have to worry about money. What I've discovered is the things I enjoy are either free or almost free. I photograph wildlife, go to the local pool everyday to swim laps, and ride my bicycle. Friends and family make living enjoyable. Well, maybe friends. Family can be really tedious!

[@eyesuckle]

Now *that* sounds like a pretty good retirement.

[@billhenry7833]

Go on a vacation. What a wasted retirement

[@colettespencer3357]

Same! Beautiful! I'm not retired, but I love my job. I love the simple things. Life is beautiful!❤

[@Deanguilberry]

You don't have to worry about money. The best things in life are free. Like irony?

[@GregAndler]

Good man.

[@libertine5606]

The craziest thing for me that brings me happiness is a garden! I put in automatic watering so it's just adding soil and putting in the plants. And I go out 2 to 3 times a day with the dogs and "check on the plants"! Grazing on the best tasting kale or tomatoes you can get. In my 20s and 30s I would have said that you are mad but just having the peace and not having to do or go anywhere I want is the best.

[@rustymertz]

Couldn’t agree more.

[@beatrixbrennan1545]

Same. Gardens, dogs and long walks are my happiness. Oh yes, and my kids of course.

[@streaming5332]

It's called reticulation.

[@davidgordon8102]

My wife and I bought a pull behind camper that we put on a month to month campsite in North Carolina. The plan was we could visit whenever we wanted without intruding on her and her husband who is in the military. With the camper, ground rent,propane and electric we were spending over a thousand a month, not including travel expenses. We ended up only spending 3-4 days a month in it. We did that for about 2 years before we called it quits and sold the camper. Way too much money for so little use.

[@anon-w9l]

Sounds reasonable enough though. I don't have an RV (and probably won't get one unless I build a class B myself) but I really enjoy the RV Inspection and Care Podcast by Duane Lipham. I've listened to all the episodes.

[@craigfoulkes]

How would that compare to a hotel costs with easier use and more space.

[@jessicaparker374]

Thank you. My husband and I often talk about being able to load up the dogs just 'go' . Might be better to look for pet friendly hotels and plan around that.

[@Eag757]

Renting is better than owning, camper, boat. Best getting van, and remodel ;as pleased.

[@johnmcnamara4880]

we have been into old cars since high-school. as retirement comes closer we don't have to buy a muscle car, we have 3! retirement means more time to play with the cars.

[@debbied9997]

My husband and I are 58, and when he retired, I decided to keep working. He loves to work in the yard and garden and stuff like that; I don't, so I decided to keep working even though we don't need to. We are spending our money on travel. We have always bought experiences over things. Even when our family was younger, we always spent our money on travel and never had a new car. Also, we love to donate to the arts. We love attending openings and celebrating all the young people who have new ideas and need financial support to continue. Money buys us the freedom to no longer worry or stress about everyday things.

[@davepaturno4290]

Often, frequent travel means shifting toward non-healthy habits, like reduced healthy eating and exercise, especially in certain countries. That's why we space out travel. Besides, we live in an area that is full of adventurous activities, friends, and farmers markets.

[@debbied9997]

@@davepaturno4290 Oh yes, our travel involves small group walking tours and active activities because, as you correctly point out, a sedentary life is not good for you.

[@nodaklojack]

Happiness comes when you stop comparing yourself to others.

[@mnbv990]

agreed.

[@MrOccyc]

Well said.

[@bribbripnairbnab7301]

I've heard happiness isn't getting what you want, but wanting what you have.

[@kingtrance307]

@@bribbripnairbnab7301- Sheryl Crow said the same…

[@TSinRM]

I totally agree with point #2, RVs. We were RVers for 10 years, and now were done with it. A motorhome is both a vehicle and a house. As with any vehicle, there are all the same potential problems and maintenance costs, but magnified. Then there is the house part; plumbing, electrical systems that are constantly being subjected to earthquake like conditions when on the road. Labor on a diesel motorhome is around $175 per hour. Good luck finding competent technicians to work on them. Diesel in my area is over $5.00 per gallon and at 8mpg, you can practically hear the dollars falling out of the exhaust pipe. Then there are the RV parks, whose nightly average costs keep escalating every year. In most of these parks you are so close to the neighbor that you have zero privacy and no noise insulation. Most RV parks are little more than parking lots. Factor in other costs such as insurance, storage and upkeep and staying at the Four Seasons doesn't seem unreasonably expensive.

[@gormanthomas8135]

We are long-term RV people also. I agree with your points 100%. HOWEVER, we have amazing memories of trips we took when our kids were growing up. You cannot put a value on that. So happy we did it when we did. As far as staying at a hotel - i’ve heard that one a lot by people who mock our chosen travel style. We used our RV in remote locations with spectacular beauty. You usually cannot wake up to seeing a baby moose 6’ out your window at a hotel (for instance). We stay in RV parks when it’s convenient, but if that’s your only destination, it will be disappointing and lacking in experiences that satisfy your soul. Not disagreeing with you. It’s like a lot of things in life - you get out of it what you put into it.

[@Bobrogers99]

Friends bought a big RV when they retired. They used it some for about two years, but it was a beast to drive and required a lot of expensive maintenance. Then it sat in their back yard until it had deteriorated to become a liability.

[@vicinvesta8349]

The problem with RVs I see and peeps getting them at the sunset of their lives.... Peeps arent as mobile. So they end up hauling the RV around the country only to park it and sit around watching TVs (this is what I see people doing when I use campgrounds. I travel with a minivan and take tent always.). In many cases these are grandparents with their grandkids. The kids have nothing better to do than quarrel or circle around campsite on their bikes. No wonder this lifestyle gets old fast. My dream is to have something like a Ford Transit cargo with minimal conversion (like it should have place to sleep, sit at a small table, be able to make a coffee or boil an egg). That's it.

[@kkiwi54]

We compromised with a caravan - much cheaper

[@francisakins9671]

Okay we aren't really RV's in the sense we move our RV around. We keep our RV in a campground we rent for yearly. That allows us to not worry about a lot of things with the RV and it also ends up being way less expensive. My cost last year was less than $1300. We also were able to buy used which was alot cheaper. We basicly have a vacation home we pay a $1000 a year space rent......heck we even have a 14'x 35' deck on one side.

[@lisagilbert8497]

Just out of school I was employed by a timeshare. I don’t care what they say I’d never purchase one . I can’t believe they are legal . FYI if they find out I used to work for one I’m quietly asked to leave because they know I know all of the tricks and schemes . Don’t fall for it . Simply go on the vacation that you want

[@jglee6721]

Great advice.

[@darlonripley606]

You dont OWN anything in a timeshare except the right to be in it a certain week; for that goo you pay thousands; yearly maintenance after that whether you stay in it or not; and anything else the actual owner's can think of to charge you for. This is why, like whole life insurance, timeshares are sold, not bought. No one ever buys one by walking up to one, seeing what it offers, and comparing it to just staying in hotels; or RVs; or with family; or with friends; or fiends; or camping; or an empty railroad car on a quiet side track; or hanging with Democratic party bums in all big cities.

[@HuFlungDung2]

If you use your timeshare, it is a good investment. The cost of hotels is always going up, your timeshare cost per night is locked in at purchase. The maintenance cost is no worse than paying taxes and maintaining a cottage at a nearby lake. The pandemic put a wrinkle into travelling to the timeshares I own in. That's the biggest problem we've had with timeshares. Having timeshares forced us to use them and to vacation, which is not a bad thing.

[@kato2531]

I’m retiring in a year… bought a piece of property down south… out of New York. I’m going build a single story house. Pursue my hobbies of wood working, and black smithing. Get 2 dogs , a couple of chickens,pigs, a pair of goats and a pair of donkeys. And if all goes well with time,money and energy I will go around town rescue stray dogs.

[@SLK445]

Bravo… 🎉

[@lynhugell6563]

Perfect

[@soldat2501]

Why not stay in New York?

[@michaelwest6238]

That sounds fantastic I think I'll join you 😊😊

[@eeroala5132]

Money might not bring happiness, but poverty sure does bring misery.

[@firebird6522]

Man, is that the truth!

[@rockadoodoo]

And, Winning is not everything, but losing sure is nothing.

[@fraudsarentfriends4717]

Lack of freedom brings misery.

[@eugeneteo9664]

well said .poverty couple with poor health is a double whammy.

[@fraudsarentfriends4717]

@@eugeneteo9664 Exactly, No healthcare brings misery and poverty. American healthcare is the most poorly educated, poorly trained on the planet.

[@hammer48ful]

I used to build things for the super rich. They had money and things. I had a good wife, two good kids, and a job that I loved. I felt richer than them. I love the freedom that my small camper gives my wife and I. We can visit places in our own time frame and enjoy the peace and quite.

[@pamelasmith514]

Cutting back on helping my family was the hardest part of retirement finance. It always brought me such pleasure and they always appreciated it.

[@edombre4637]

People are always happy when they get free stuff that they don’t have to work for.

[@tomcavanaugh5237]

"Never invest in anything that eats or needs painting." - Billy Rose. Looking back, personally, I'd say exceptions are the house you live in, a modest car, and a dog. Avoid planes, boats, RVs, cabins, time shares, rental property, horses, and expensive cars. I won't give an opinion on spouses or kids, but I'd suggest careful consideration.

[@markp.7165]

2nd or third wives should also be avoided! 😁

[@marcoprolo1488]

The 3 F rule. If it flies, floats of f*cks, it is better to rent... 🙂

[@nogames8982]

Do you know how to make a small fortune with horses? Start with a large fortune.

[@davepaturno4290]

You are obviously not a "car person", but if you've ever attended cars & coffee events, you'd see many sportscar lovers who find great joy in driving them.

[@davepaturno4290]

@tomcavanaugh5237 It depends on what you consider to be an expensive car. For some, a $100k car is normal. For myself, a $70k car to enjoy my best driving years during retirement is money well spent. Then again, I've ALWAYS been a sportscar guy, even before I got my driver's license.

[@janstolk486]

I bought an ocean going sailboat and me and my sweetheart spent years cruising the east coast of America and the Bahamas and the DR. We had a great time until she past away , then I found the upkeep by myself boring and sad without her .. Selling was a sad moment for me . I sold my boat to a young couple who wanted to do what we did and I hope they have as much fun as we did . I guess you have to be a loving couple to spend every day together on a boat , I miss her as much as the boat .

[@faithl4105]

Thanks for sharing. You were blessed to experience such wonderful times with your beloved. And now, you have precious memories many folks would wish they were fortunate to have.😊

[@mikjeuitbranant]

Hou je haaks, Jan 👊🏻

[@jessicaparker374]

My husband had a Harley he loved. We would spend weekends cruising through the NC mountains and had an absolute blast. He flew with a pilot whose brother had just been diagnosed with terminal cancer. His brother's dream was to take one final cross country trip on Harleys with his brother. My husband immediately offered his Harley at a very reduced price and the man bought it on the spot as a surprise to his brother. Never heard how their trip went but I hope it was a wonderful as I have always imagined it to be for them.

[@janstolk486]

@@mikjeuitbranant Dank je wel .

[@janstolk486]

@faithl4105 I'm so glad we did this ❤️.

[@TheRosswise]

I briefly considered getting an RV, then realized that instead of paying the price Id rather just stay at a nice hotel when we travel.

[@roxannegordon2854]

The problem with nice hotels is that they kick you out at 11 am. the next day. I would be paying over $200 (in the areas I want to see) for a few hours. When the pandemic hit, the hotels were closed. I bought a Winnebago Minnie Drop. I took her all over the US to national parks. Did that for 5 years. Now she's too small, so I bought another one a little bigger. Adventures await.

[@sammyday3341]

Excellent advice and presentation. My wife and I are nearing retirement. One of the things that brings true happiness and contentment is having no debt at that time. We had a second home in Maine for a few years, but it wasn’t used enough to justify it. And then there are the expenses and concerns - especially if the home is far away. I’m learning to be thankful for what we have and how we planned and followed through with retirement preparation.

[@TROOPERfarcry]

I read an article some time ago that mentioned that the three ways to spend money to "buy" happiness are: 1 - Buy someone else a gift. 2 - Buy memories not things - IE, a vacation versus an over-priced car. 3 - Buy more time in your day - so maybe a personnel shopper instead of shopping yourself. I think there's a fourth - buy the best mattress you can, because 1/3 of your life will be spent on it, and the feeling of being well-rested is very, very valuable. One thing that I accidentally scrawled in my personal journal is, "I've thought for so long that I'll be happy when I'm successful... but now I wonder if it isn't the other way around." It felt so wise to have penned that. But, there's probably something there that just needs to be unpacked.

[@davepaturno4290]

You forgot the joy of helping others. There are so many kids out there who fell behind during the pandemic. There are also adults who need English as a second language instruction. I find great joy in helping others in this way.

[@phillipbintner1846]

My best thing was learning everything I owned was also a liability as I age. Iv'e gone to very little . It took alot of stress off of my mind.

[@ryanlemmers5300]

I bought a small pontoon boat with a small 40 hp outboard just prior to the pandemic. Best purchase we as a family ever made. I’ve had to upgrade/replace everything on the trailer due to salt water damage but it’s been a huge joy learning how to do all these upgrades. It’s more than enough boat and is fairly easy to maintain but yes, maintenance is much more frequent than on a car

[@bitterspice5525]

Enjoy!

[@coniccinoc]

I've heard the cost of those has increased quite a bit since your purchase.

[@JT-en9ni]

New boats depreciate fast. Go with something used and get the engine repaired by a pro. Boats go for crazy cheap if they got something wrong with the engine .

[@Samathachavez-k1w]

@@ryanlemmers5300 Hi dear Good evening . I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a man with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don’t a normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this complement. If you don’t mind can we be friends? Thanks God bless you….🌺🌺🌺

[@Randy-mi2up]

I bought a fishing boat when I turned 59 1/2 . I take friends and family out on it. It’s been 6yrs with it, there’s no regrets.

[@PInk77W1]

I’m 62 retired I don’t have a car I live 50 miles south of Abilene Tx. The other day a neighbor gave me a ride to town. I gave her $100. She was so happy.

[@phillipbyrnes2885]

Why don’t you have a car ?

[@PInk77W1]

@@phillipbyrnes2885 Because I have 6 Titanium Campagnolo bicycles. Im a cyclist. Im 63 now so I might break down and buy one.

[@kaohsiung99]

Abilene, Abilene Prettiest town I've ever seen Women there don't treat you mean In Abilene, my Abilene

[@wcg66]

Your list is spot on. Our retirement dream home is somewhere smaller, in a walkable neighbourhood. We do plan to help out our kids with their first house since much of our wealth is a result of a huge increase in real estate prices (that also puts real estate out of their grasp). However, that’s planned in and we don’t plan on overextending ourselves to support them further.

[@chrisrutledge9330]

An outstanding examination. A take away seems to be...question your "dream". Do not give it up, but examine it. There are boat buyers and RV buyers who realistically evaluated how much pleasure these things would give them, and love their decision. Cannot agree more with investing in experiences - good gyms, physiotherapy, travel, good food, sprucing up the wardrobe or the house. Plays, movies, concerts. Stuff that keeps new ideas and information coming into your life. The most important organ you have in your body is your brain.

[@darleneatkinson3906]

Kevin, I retired at age 57 years of age and 6 months been retired for 8 years now. After I retired, I started decluttering my life. I knew I would not need a vehicle, so I sold the vehicle I had I remove lots of stuff out of my life do not need them anymore. I am single so I really have very simple life. I prepared for leaving my day job. I did not buy any big purchase at all. I knew I get older, so I bought a small house it has been paid off since 2007 year. I love watching you-tube videos. Thanks for this video.

[@foundryfinancial]

Thanks for taking time to share. I always appreciate it.

[@Jennieallen415]

Bought an RV 10 years before retirement. Paid cash. We've been RVing for 20 years now and it's brought us great fun and wonderful memories. Wish we'd done it years earlier.

[@miragexl007]

Small percentage i'm guessing.. Absolute Cheers to you

[@northerniltree]

I can't retire, according to my accountant. When I asked him why, he plainly stated it was because I suck at golf!

[@chrislane8466]

Always loved being able to step up and help my kids when they needed it. It didn't take long for them to always need it.

[@jhask64]

Enabling.

[@davepaturno4290]

@chrislane8466 Sometimes the worst thing you can do is spoil children who have not experienced hardship.

[@neils5539]

We have friends that bought an used RV, traveled the country for 6 months, then sold it. All intentionally. They got the trip they wanted and it sold for about $1,500 less than they paid. Great scheme if you can sell it fairly close to your purchase price.

[@cjc1103]

Add taxes and operational costs into that $1,500

[@richardnolan4763]

@@cjc1103 Subtract hotel and motel costs had they traveled for 6 months without the RV.

[@figmojustfigmo3820]

@@richardnolan4763 and don’t forget the costs of whatever they are traveling in. Sure, cars are less expensive than RVs to drive - but not ZERO. Still have gas, oil, maint, insurance, taxes, etc

[@MJ-zo5gb]

I definitely recommend renting an RV to see if you like it first. If you do, I strongly recommend getting a small RV. Lower upfront cost, lower fuel cost, easy to park, can go into city centers, can park it in your driveway and not pay for storage fees, Easier to fix and wash. If it’s a van or class C motor home , you can have it serviced at a dealerships which are everywhere,(for the engine). Smaller RVs are also easy to maneuver you can go down more roads without worrying about getting stuck. You’re simply a lot freer with a small RV. Also, with all the money you saved on not getting a large expensive RV you can afford to occasionally stay at hotels, which have certain amenities you can’t find anywhere else.

[@bitterspice5525]

You can also buy a nice small trailer. If you need a bigger vehicle to tow it, get a 2nd generation Chevy Tahoe or Suburban. They are incredible. Regularly run for 300+ miles. Dependable. Low maintenance costs and you can find a mechanic that go can work on them in any town. Last model year was 2006. They sell for around $5k

[@ghoover111]

I agree with you, but new campervans/Class Bs are the most expensive RVs out there.

[@thedevilsadvocate5210]

Doesnt your back hurt

[@HiTechDiver]

Thanks, great video. My wife talked me into going to one of those Time-Share intro's for a free meal. We walked out clean, though I did notice that they have agents observing people to see who is the most vulnerable. As I recall (40 years ago) they didn't even pressure us; just let us walk out. On another note, I am starting to see the value in paying people to do certain things for you.

[@foundryfinancial]

We hired a gardner recently. Sounds fancier than it is, but such a good investment. Of course I hired an editor for my videos and now I’m stressed on the errors in spelling. Haha

[@mariebrooks875]

All good points. Another thing to keep in mind with the boat/RV is personal space. When a couple retires, suddenly you are with that person 24/7. Even though you’ve been married forever, you were apart enough hours of the working day to make an interesting evening and give you stimulating conversations. This all changes when you are together constantly. When we were RV shopping, it had to have two completely separated areas to give each of us space - especially during our Pacific Northwest rains. WE got a used unit that fits our requirements, is easy on gas and easy to drive. We do enjoy our camping times now!

[@faithl4105]

I hear you, about so needing personal space when together 24/7 in retirement. Thank you! 😅

[@westerlywinds5684]

I don’t have to worry about any of this. I will be working my entire life, because I have to.

[@my2cents395]

You are remembered for what you give not what you have.

[@stevethomas760]

And it can be passing along friendship.

[@Jmr-o5e]

Its true. This woman i gave chlamydia said she’ll always remember me.

[@denisplouffe514]

Thank you for your counsel and as a retired person I agree with you and tried to help my brother when he retired and he spent his inheritance on boats, trailers, snow machines etc. He now needs to work to pay his bills.

[@alleykeosheyan4779]

Ya know what BOAT stands for? Bust Out Another Thousand...

[@foundryfinancial]

Ha! You’re not wrong.

[@00mazone]

My Grandfather told me it's a hole in the water that you throw money at 😂 My saying is the best boat is a friends boat. They are fun but I don't think I will ever buy one.

[@hardlines2635]

my older brother lives on a canal boat and loves it, he said he will never go back to living in a house. He was a mechanic and is very handy at fixing and making things, He told me it costs him less to run his boat than he paid council tax for his house. Whenever I visit him he always seems happy and in good health. In the winter his boat is warmer than my house.

[@quokkapirquish6825]

A small 50 feet long boat will cost 70+ litres of fuel per mile if you travel at 20mph.

[@GrizzlyGamerUSA]

My dad said the 2 best days of a retirement is when you buy a boat and when you sell the boat.

[@stevest1300]

I was admiring a brand new Buick in a hotel parking lot on the Alaska Highway in Watson Lake back in the 1990s. The older couple came out to leave on their travels for the day. In chatting, I found out he was a retired accountant and they were traveling North America. He had had a lot of older clients who brought RVs at retirement. He said he decided on retirement to travel the "cheap way" by buying a nice car, staying in nice hotels and eating in good restaurants as he too, had seen the math on RVs. He didn't want to wrestle an RV down the road and the wife didn't want all the traditional domestic chores while on the road. Smart people.

[@allanfifield8256]

Dream Houses can be hard to sell because they are YOUR dream, not anybody else's.

[@keithmoriyama5421]

Buy a kayak not a boat! Kayaking has become a perpetual joy for the wife and I. It's like taking a walk in the woods, every corner contains a new surprise. We paddle out to a deserted island for lunch, which becomes our own private island that would otherwise cost millions to own. The wild life does not run in fear as we gently glide by, the exercise is easy an exhilarating and water access is way more available than a powered craft. The cost ends with the purchase. No storage fees, docking fees, maintenance, insurance, gas and hours of upkeep.

[@res6769]

Yep, my husband and I kayak fish and it never gets old

[@Hero4Hire4]

I’m retired. I thought about doing some of those things and also ruled them out. In younger days I wanted to travel by private yacht and RV. I still have a dream home I plan on building, but it will be on one level; only two bedrooms and bathrooms and not too large or on too much land. Currently with my joint problems I hire a guy to take care of my yard. I’m thinking about getting a housekeeper. I don’t have the energy and drive to keep up with a lot of things. I’ve started looking around at things I’ve accumulated over the years and it seems like so much junk and a burden only occupying space. I plan on ridding myself of most of it. I’m not that active these days, so I just don’t need or want that much. You earned a new subscriber! 😁

[@dawnmartyne]

Great video . For me. I had cosmetic eyelids surgery to remove bags and hooded eyes plus a weird deep crease appeared down one side . No doctors could tell ne why so I spent £6000 to have my eyes and face sorted . Delighted wirh the surgery my confidence levels skyrocketed its been over 2 years now since the surgery and eveytine i look in the mirror I'm filled wirh happiness and joy . My face looks balanced, normal and I look alot younger that £6000 pays me daily dividends and will do fir rhe rest of my life. .

[@michaelfinley9988]

We bought an RV in retirement and love it. We travel most of the summer to cooler climates. We hate staying in hotels for a number of reasons. In our RV, it is our second home away from home. We don’t have to live out of a suitcase. We cook our own meals. We sleep in our own bed. We see many new places. We have met many like minded people our own age. Is it expensive…absolutely, but we realize we only have a short window to travel and see as many places as we can in retirement. For us it works and have no regrets.

[@brucegunn6396]

You wrote what I was thinking. Our 5th wheel is so much better than a hotel or B&B

[@garym4956]

Amen! We have made many memories with and for our grandchildren in our RV. We have had so many beautiful and wonderful trips in it that now two of our children are planning to buy one. we have also met up with friends and neighbors who also own an RV. Yes, it sometimes gets expensive, but it is a great source of pleasure for us. We have been retired for eight years now. We don’t know how long we will be able to drive it across the country and back, but in the meantime, we will enjoy every mile.

[@larryherbert252]

Right good points, let me say what works for you may not work for someone else, again you make good points and what your doing works for you

[@caroljv33]

We paid cash for our Class C RV and agree with your experience. We are making such amazing memories, stay in my own bed, use my own bathroom, eat and prepare my own food-tail gate at football games and get to bring our little dog. We plan on doing this for as long as possible. No crazy airport delays, it’s a dream. We have the house of our dreams because flippers got in over their heads and had to unload it. The day we closed the equity shot up. The only thing we owe is the Mortage in our retirement. Our one car is cash paid for as well. We’re just careful about the other things we spend money on.

[@philc.9280]

We have few financial regrets and but are avid RV'ers for 30 years. Driving a small class B these days is the way to go. Smaller expenses (gas and maintenance) and easy to fix (if you're so inclined). We did buy a Mariott Timeshare many years ago that we sold after paying constantly rising maintenance fees. Fortunately, it wasn't too expensive, and it didn't hurt us at all. Instead of a boat we have a small Kayak that works for us.

[@johnp139]

*you’re

[@MrCox2121]

I can rent a boat for a few hundred dollars a day. No loan payments, maintenance,insurance, or storage fees. I have an RV that we bought 8 years ago and use it often 40+ days a year. We set up a college fund for our granddaughter that we contribute to monthly.

[@fredflintstone8048]

Great advice. There's an old saying about boats in general and not just connected to retirement. "The two happiest days in a man's life is when he buys his boat, and when he sells it'. The are a burden. This could also easily apply to RVs. RVs are constantly falling apart, even when fairly new. The truth is that you'll most likely end up not using either the boat or the RV as much as you thought you would and using them takes a lot of work. It's really best to rent boats and RVs in the long run.

[@zilksmooth]

I would add classic cars. I am a lifelong gearhead and have worked on cars for years. I have a modest collection of 4 vehicles, all paid for and in good working order. My friends who don’t work on cars, but have always wanted a classic, typical make a bad decision when buying their first one; overpay, not happy with it, can’t work on it, etc. I’ve made bad decisions too, but those were years ago, and on a much smaller scale as I was budget constrained.

[@jamesmathews1841]

That's exactly what I did. I totally restored my 1965 Stingray Corvette. A 327/350 HP four-speed with teakwood steering wheel and factory side exhaust. I NEVER get tired of taking it out for a drive.

[@davepaturno4290]

@jamesmathews1841 I owned a 68 Corvette 327/350 hp for almost 22 years, then a 2001 with every option. My slightly delayed retirement gift to myself was a 2024 Toyota GR Supra, 45th anniversary edition. It has all the stuff that makes a sportscar so much fun to drive AND take a trip, even to Church and the grocery store. The car's power is startling, and unlike a Corvette C8 (which I rented for a day), fits in the garage with much room to spare. Do I miss my C3 Corvette at times? Of course......until I hop in the Supra.

[@ronwilson8759]

I own a classic, but I can do my own work. So I am delighted.

[@jamesmathews1841]

@@davepaturno4290 thanks for the heads up Dave. I also had a 2003 50th anniversary ZO6 which was an absolute blast to drive. Think I will give a visit to my local Toyota dealer and see what's up. Nothing better than the thrill of taking your baby out for a drive and seeing what she can do...Cheers!

[@coniccinoc]

Spot on video! There are many things in life that can bring joy that cost very little. My top 3 are chess, hiking and reading. The joy from material objects is fleeting and is similar to a drug addict chasing a need that can never be met.

[@Robin-xt7yo]

Agreed! In my twenties, I was all about acquiring stuff, such as designer purses and a used Porsche which turned out to be a money pit I regret. Now at age 63, I am giving my stuff away. I am trying to declutter. I prefer to make good memories such as taking trips with friends and my sister.

[@martindavis1913]

My four priorities are My Family: Four daughters all if whom live nearby My Private Studies/ Reading. Too many topics and subjects to elaborate. My Vege Garden. Organic and regenerative . In truth I am a crappy gardener but it connects me to the Earth, Cyckes of nature and the cosmos( yeah, I was a freaked out flower child in my time). My Travels. I fancy myself as a gerontological Marco Polo…. to the ends of the Earth as long as there is a ceramic toilet bowl! So there we have it. but in all seriousness I am so glad I joined the Superannuation fund when I first started work.

[@coniccinoc]

@@martindavis1913 Having a curious mind has been a blessing for me, sounds like the same for you : )

[@martindavis1913]

@@coniccinoc absolutely. It is a big universe and you never know what is over the next hill.

[@joarvatnaland6904]

Not retired yet, but here's my thoughts on it: generally I have discovered that the fewer things I have, the happier I am - up until a point of course. It was a dream for me to buy a retirement home. Now I'm not that sure anymore. House prices are going up a lot, and so you have to bind up a lot of capital in a market that can turn. It's quite possible it's wiser to rent and have other investments that can give you that passive income. Like you mention, the temptation for a boat or an RV is there, but the thing is that when you get older, suddenly it isn't that convenient anymore.

[@pauljacob2449]

the cost of renting is rising rapidly, rent increases every year , my sister had your thought as she liked to move a lot now she is finding some towns have very few places to rent and prices have more than doubled in last five years.

[@joarvatnaland6904]

@@pauljacob2449 Where I am of course rents have increased, but not as much as mortgages have. If I didn't have a partner, I would have seriously considered buying a van and kitting it out.

[@russellpengilley5924]

You aren't supposed to have a mortgage when you are retired, you are supposed to own outright specifically as a hedge against rent or mortgage costs increading. I think it's fine to plan to rent if you're going to use that time to try different places or lifestyles, but as part of your other investments you should have a house that you can always move back to. That house should be suitable for old age, so minimal stairs, easy access to shops, social activities, healthcare, close to family, etc...

[@joarvatnaland6904]

@@russellpengilley5924 It's not about what I am "supposed to" have. I was well on my way to owning a house outright, but a divorce unfortunately destroyed all that. Now I want to invest myself back into position, but I can't do that if I bind up all the money in house and mortgage.

[@russellpengilley5924]

Sorry to hear that, life can really upset the best laid plans. I am retired and living in a rental house specifically because the return on my investments is higher than tying the capital up in the same or similar house to the one I am renting, but.... I also own a house (in a different area) that I could move into if I had to and currently rent that out to someone else. It's not the most cost effective situation as my money in that house could be working harder, but it does provide some return and the level of insurance and peace of mind it provides makes it personally invaluable. When I am older and less physically capable then I will likely move to an owned house specifically to avoid the risk of having to move at an advanced age. If I was to live somewhere where renter protection is very high for security of tenure and limiting rental price rises, then I would maybe consider continuing to rent, but outside of a select few European countries I don't think it's available. I am guessing that you are in the US, I am not, so I accept that my experience may not apply to your circumstances. As someone looking from outside, the US appears to have huge regional variations in house prices, but I don't know how viable it is to own and rent out in a cheaper state, when you live and work maybe thousands of miles away.

[@hughjass1044]

Best piece of advice I was ever given - "You can only spend a dollar once. Make sure you do so wisely."

[@eyesuckle]

Oh my God. And that's the *best* piece of advice you've ever been given? Whom did that come from? Scrooge McDuck. . . ?

[@paulbrungardt9823]

Boat Owners' 2 most happy days : The 2nd happiest day is the days he buys it; The 1st happiest day is the day he sells it.

[@davidbrayshaw3529]

My father owned a 33' sloop for a number of years. He described the experience as being like standing in a cold shower and tearing up $50 notes. He reckoned that the happiest days you'll ever have on a yacht will be on someone else's yacht, not your own.

[@ravenone6255]

😅

[@jeffpitzer8521]

If you are a real boat person that is not true...but if you like the "idea" of a boat you should spend lots of time in a friend's boat first so you understand what's all involved. I have two ski boats and due to life right now haven't taken out either one this season but when our lives level back out we'll use them a lot...no regrets on boat...time share, definitely...I got mine canceled decades ago before there was a timeshare cancelation industry.

[@paulbrungardt9823]

@@jeffpitzer8521 Here is hoping your lives level back out. Regards from Colorado

[@Osborneloto]

I will have a boat until I can’t walk.

[@judytaylor3099]

My husband and I bought an RV when we were fairly young and we had a great time with it, then he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer so we sold it. I hope the family that bought it enjoyed it as much as we did. I was recently diagnosed with cancer as well. That old adage of “the golden years” is a crock. Now that I am 85, believe me, it ain’t fun. Enjoy your youth. I do have my memories though.

[@dougb2714]

My mom passed at age 96. Her favorite saying was "these golden years ain't all their cracked up to be".

[@Arete37]

My mom's 103. "Old age ain't for sissies."

[@roxannegordon2854]

@@dougb2714 Where did that expression come from? Golden years. What's golden?

[@gjd8849]

The RV thing makes no sense to me. Very expensive to buy and maintain. Then, when I vacation in the RV, I must drive for days, make my own bed, clean my own bathroom, shop for and cook my own food, etc. What kind of a vacation is that? I do those things when I’m home. Will never own one.

[@foundryfinancial]

Haha. I mean I do enjoy our Airstream and there are inherent rewards to it, but it has its challenges.

[@johnp139]

You can go wherever you want with minimal plans. You can save loads of money on food alone. You can venture to places where there are no hotels. You can stay away from PEOPLE!

[@malcolmwolfgram7414]

And carry your own do do around with you!

[@Jmr-o5e]

Biggest problem with rv is none of them os comfortable. I want a large shower plus full bath tub, a kitchen big enough to cook properly in, and a bedroom with a kingsize bed and plenty of closets. Rvs are cramped. And who wants to cook and clean for themselves? I dont want to wash dishes, or clothes, or make my bed, or sweep the floor. Ever. As in never. Cant rv being a good choice for me for even one night.

[@rc2257]

When my parents retired, they told me they wanted to buy an RV. I urged them to rent one for a week or a month to see if they liked it. I offered to pay for the rental. They disregarded my advice, but it worked out well for them. They bought a 5th wheel and a quarter-ton pickup truck to tow it. Yes, it was a LOT of work to own and to travel with their RV. But they used it quite a lot for about 8 years, and sold the 5th wheel and the truck for a decent price. Even though it worked out for them, buying an RV is a huge gamble. For people who've never traveled with one, it's a lot more work than you expect it will be, and much of that work isn't fun. Then you have to store it, and unless you have a big property and a pole barn, you'll probably end up paying rent to store it at a storage facility. Lastly, you go from living in a house with rooms and real bathrooms and privacy to living in an RV whose total square footage is like half of the dining room in your house. The bathroom is cramped. When you have to use the restroom and an extra measure of privacy is required (yes, I'm talking about #2), there is no sneaking to the bathroom in a remote part of the house. So bring the air freshener, and maybe a noise machine. Sorry to be so explicit, but these are things that people find out the hard way after they spend $75K on their RV. It might work out for you. There is something really really cool about being in your own space, no matter where you go. Camping in the national parks amidst incredible beauty helps you reconnect with the earth in a way you probably rarely had time to before retirement. There are upsides, for sure. But like our host said, TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Rent an RV and take a trip. Peace and love to you all.

[@elmo319]

Money doesn’t make you happy, but you can choose how you want to be miserable 😂

[@TonyM540]

🤣

[@eyesuckle]

Good one!

[@ronwilson8759]

Accurate, LOL.

[@mrclean6796]

Kevin, you truly come across as such a kind and honest man. I truly appreciate you taking the time to assist so many people by giving people free financial advice. The world needs more people like you my friend.

[@linneab8317]

I agree with you on all points. We had considered the timeshare and the salesman was so aggressive. We refused to budge from our “we’ll think about it” stance. So glad we did.

[@joshuamooney4509]

Timeshares should be illegal. Literally all of them exist to fuck over people they are sold to and they are next to impossible to get out of

[@scottr2706]

Smartest move of your life.

[@williamhaynes7089]

@@joshuamooney4509 - THATS why people sell them on ebay for $1

[@Bronte-on6tm]

@@scottr2706 The smartest move is to avoid ever speaking to timeshare salesmen at all.

[@pmscalisi]

It amazes me how many people still fall for the time share thing considering how long that horrible scam has been around

[@TheVagolfer]

All good suggestions, none of which I did. I would like to add a sixth one - actually not retiring. Part of my retirement plan was NOT to retire. I'm a builder and at 68 I still work almost everyday because I love being active and being outside. I do not work as hard or as I long as I used to, but I don't sit and home pining for something t do. I still take trips and time off, but I also haven't taken a penny out of savings yet. Love your job and keep it as long as you do.

[@joetruth7823]

Well said! I’m an arborist and love working with trees. I couldn’t imagine quitting and sitting on a beach or playing golf.

[@colettespencer3357]

I'm a nurse and love what I do! I can't imagine retiring. No interest at all.

[@jerrycallo]

Yep, and don't overlook the value of being more healthy because you are physically active. If my boss wasn't such a fool I wouldn't be thinking about retiring. I keep telling myself the work is easy, I enjoy it, and I get a good paycheck out of it.

[@rods6741]

I like my job and can't imagine doing anything else. Been doing the same thing since 1983 and that's enough. I'm retiring at the end of this year and there's about a 0.00001% chance I'll regret it.

[@figmojustfigmo3820]

“Show me a man who loves what he does and I’ll show you a man who will never work a day in his life.”

[@marcoprolo1488]

Agreed. First thing I did before I retired was to get rid off the sailing boat and sold the cottage house to downsize before it is too late. My kids have a fund for their college studies but it will not go further than that.

[@randallthomas5207]

I bought a used compact tractor from a retired guy who had decided he hated running it when I retired. And I am doing a lot of work around my place to decrease the work load as I get older.

[@jowpopper790]

Bought my RV before retiring and after a year of retirement sold it and don't regret it. Campground prices and gas prices got so expensive we decided hotels or airbnb are easier.

[@CentristRN]

Thought fulfillment and joy but was only short lived. Ends up being something to take care of. Well said. Applies to every age!

[@rogerm3708]

As a minimalist, My goal is to own less every year. If I do make a big purchase, it won't sting so much knowing that I went without it for so long. So far I have managed to own less every year, except a couple years out of the last 10 (vehicle purchases)

[@fattoria_di_bastoni]

That’s my same plan. I’ll be retiring in 14 months and will then start donating and moving stuff on to new homes.

[@Bhgjjj]

As someone who is overwhelmed with my dads and my wife’s dads stuff after their deaths, I now know what a burden all this stuff is. An empty garage is better then one filled with stuff you hardly use. How many skill saws does one guy need? I’m starting to sell everything too.

[@Rambleon444]

Jerry Seinfeld... “All things on Earth only exist in different stages of becoming garbage.” “Your home is a garbage processing center where you buy new things, bring them into your house, and slowly crapify them over time.”

[@faithl4105]

​@Bhgjjj Thank you so much for that timely, valuable, wise reminder! I need to purge my stuff while I'm able... So my kids won't have to do it for me one day. 😢😅

[@faithl4105]

​@@Rambleon444OMG! Thank you!! 😅🤣

[@gonefishing3644]

My spouse and I have only done one of these five things. And that was to buy our first RV -- an inexpensive, used travel trailer to pull with a truck we already had. We did not want to spend much on an RV until we knew whether we would like RVing. We very much enjoyed a few years of camping in that RV and being able to bring our pets on our travels and not having to worry about bed bugs or other unsanitary conditions in motel rooms. And then we switched that used travel trailer for a new motorhome, right before the pandemic. Unfortunately, the first year of the pandemic meant some state governments would not allow travelers in RVs to camp overnight in their state, the state and national park RV campgrounds closed, and some states required all the private campgrounds to close too. The end result was that we could not use our new motorhome for about a year shortly after we bought it. And then the price of diesel fuel skyrocketed, which limited how far we would travel in our RV once travel restrictions were lifted. So, we have not been using that nice RV as much as we originally intended. But it is still our preferred way to vacation.

[@jessicaparker374]

You had me at bed bugs. As a former flight attendant, I have heard of many other FAs who were attacked while they slept, waking up covered in bites and some even brought them home!!!! I think I will just stay home and watch the Travel Channel.

[@bernie9728]

My wife and I have been RVing for years. When I retired 7 years ago we purchased a 27 foot Travel Trailer and a New Pickup Truck to pull it with. 2 years later my wife retired and we decided the trailer was too small so we upgraded to a 35 foot triple slide job. We just put it in winter storage. I'm getting an itch to upgrade to a Class A Motorhome. Maybe in the spring.

[@foundryfinancial]

We have a 23ft Airstream. We love it, but don’t get out nearly enough.

[@memehamp6006]

Be careful because they are being stolen at night when parked on side of your home in driveway. Cameras are very important now😮

[@dryvonne1999]

@@memehamp6006 A camera is definitely a deterrent, but it’s also a good idea to have a hitch lock and a wheel lock on a trailer too.

[@memehamp6006]

@@dryvonne1999 Okay. Thank you

[@Samathachavez-k1w]

@@bernie9728 Hi dear Good evening . I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a man with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don’t a normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this complement. If you don’t mind can we be friends? Thanks God bless you….🌺🌺🌺

[@dougfresh1341]

Simplicity. Downsize and do the things you love. Life is about people, not things. "Godliness with contentment is great gain." I Tim 6:6

[@orcharddweller1109]

I just feel the opposite, always have, I love things and think stuff like holidays and parties are a complete waste of money.

[@mrLoftladder]

We bought an RV a year after we retired and have never regretted it once. 3 years in we now spend about half the year in it and half at home, it has allowed us to visit parts of our country we probably would never otherwise have visited (UK), but best of all it means we can spend the winters in the mild climate of southern Spain rather than freezing our butts off in the north. Having said that I do appreciate your point, the secure compound we keep ours in when we are at home is full of RVs that look like they haven't been driven in years and many others that only see the open road two or three weeks of the year.

[@vinyalonde]

I agree with all of your items. What some may not realize is that costs can be divided into two phases: initial purchase cost and support cost. During the support phase, the costs may exceed 60 percent of the total cost. This proportion has been seen over and over again in any large system purchase such as when governments pay for infrastructure or weapons for example. You buy something and then you pay for it in either money, time, and often both. As to experiences versus things, yes, this, 100 percent this. To this end, while travelling, I have found that paying a guide for a tour is one of the best ways to use my money to get the most out of a trip.

[@johnp139]

Acquisition and sustainment.

[@robertp.wainman4094]

Like so many other things - the dream is often better than the reality!

[@autumnzellers3855]

You hit the nail on the head with the points on this video. I see a lot of people help their family members or their children most often to their detriment. I love the idea of buying time. Next year I’m hiring someone to do the yard trimming so I don’t have to deal with it and get the time back. Fun fact about boats according to my neighbor who has a boat. He said the best part of boat ownership is the day you buy the boat and the day you sell the boat. 😂

[@Rambleon444]

My best investment is my 2 Labrador dogs. Nothing else comes close.

[@ediewall6360]

Dogs are amazing. Ah , if people could only be more like dogs.

[@jglee6721]

Excellent.

[@Kingcarparpeggio]

Great comment !!

[@lynhugell6563]

How true

[@blackbirdhollow3889]

Agree 100%! Dogs make everything better!

[@tonywilliams1532]

Spent my pension lump sum on a campervan. My wife was very nervous about it but now, 6 years later we spend around 5 months a year touring Europe and maybe another 2 in various parts of the UK. In fact we’re currently in Northern Spain. Enjoying every minute and the anticipation of upcoming trips. When we’re done we’ll sell the van and relish the memories. We live a simple active lifestyle and prioritise health, happiness & family. One life - live it - no room for “I wish we’d……………”

[@gmiles119]

My family always had an RV when I was growing up. We started with a pop up, then moved to bigger and bigger RVs. We had tons of fun, and made great memories. By the time my mom and dad retired, they were done with the RV life, so they sold it. I did the exact same thing with my family. Great memories that always bring joy, (even the times we broke down on the road) but our son is graduating soon, so we are done as well. we sold the RV, and are in the process of buying a home at the beach where we often went on vacation, and was also the place my parents retired. For us, I guess you could call it a "dream home" mainly because we shopped, literally for 3 years. We knew just what we wanted, and we even knew which month the builder's fiscal year ended, which happens to be when they give the biggest discounts. Yes, it's the nicest home we ever bought in a great location, but it's not the typical dream home as far as being too big, or too expensive. I think we really hit the sweet spot, but it's not something that would have likely happened had we not put the time, thought and planning into it. Long winded I know, but hopefully there are some who would find this useful. Oh yea, we did the boat thing back in the 90's, and it was fun, but there were unexpected expenses, and it could be a burden at times. They do say, the 2 best days in a boat owner's life are the day he gets it, and the day he gets rid of it. They may be right.

[@Quilt4Joy]

Before retiring I bought a high-end sewing/embroidery machine and I love it! Buy before you retire so it’s paid off when you do retire.

[@EchoSigma6]

I know a few guys that got in over their heads with car restorations, what a potential money pit. Some of them have more than one unfinished cars in their garage and it’s been years. I’m close to 59, hanging on til 62 to retire. I agree with experiences, I just returned from a trip with my parents and my children. That was a trip of a lifetime. ❤️

[@Mark-dk4fe]

Tell'em to go fly! Avionics baby! Now you're spending!

[@Stahodad]

If they are doing most of the work themselves, it may be good to keep busy...😊

[@chrisforker7487]

I absolutely love my one old car that I bought. Now my wife hates it 😝

[@EchoSigma6]

@@chrisforker7487 I just bought a 15 year old convertible myself. My wife is sort of warming up to it but once she drives it then she’ll probably fall in love driving it.

[@chrisforker7487]

@@EchoSigma6I’ve had my RX7 for 10 years, she ain’t warming up to any part of it yet 😝. She had a Miata at one point, not sure why she hates this car, oh well, I enjoy the heck out of it!

[@cjhoward409]

We bought a class C 15 years ago brand new for $52,000. We lived in it for 3 years. We loved it !

[@repns]

In the mid 90s, when we were in our 30/40s, we purchased a timeshare. It is a points-based program with, at the time, about a dozen resorts. Today, after 100+ vacations, we’re still satisfied with our decision. We now have over 100 resorts from which to choose, plus trading options. I’d guess we’ve spent much less than the purchase, upkeep, and replacement of either a boat or an RV. Timeshares work if the system is flexible enough and you actually use it.

[@OldRustySteele]

Agree. We purchased a “small” timeshare with a large, reputable firm (Hilton Grand Vacations) and we are very happy with it. Gives us lots of places to stay and it’s far less expensive than buying a vacation home or 2nd or 3rd residence to maintain. That said, they do try and sell you more by offering you more points, perks, free stays, so you gotta be firm and say no.

[@kwatt-engineer796]

We bought a 27 foot Class C RV. It's large enough for extended trips (4 to 6 plus months) and small enough that a Ford dealer anywhere can service it. We bought quality over size and have few maintenance issues. We've been coast to coast twice plus Nova Scotia. It's great for visiting Friends & family. We sleep on the RV. It's convenient for everyone. We Saved $ our entire careers and have no debt. Our extended RV trips made Memories for a lifetime. It's a big country, so we expect to make more. We built our Retirement home on the water with dock and a boat. Again, size is moderate for fishing coastal waters. We use our toys and enjoy them.

[@williewonka6694]

Ahhh, yes the boat. Id owned a sailboat since I turned 50. I traded up at age 58, just before retirement. One of the best purchases I've made. No regrets, as having been well aware of the costs and commitment to sailing a large boat.

[@bitterspice5525]

Good for you! My retired neighbor owned boats for decades. Sailed until he was 85. He was sad to let her go, but his buddies take him fishing now. Still loves the water but couldn’t handle the physical demands anymore. He had a really good run!

[@pmscalisi]

I think if you’re knowledgeable about purchase of costly things like boats, you can prepare ahead of time and avoid the stress of the lack of proper information

[@miragexl007]

He's not talking about boat enthusiasts.

[@colettespencer3357]

Sailing is amazing

[@nigelduckworth4419]

I'M in the UK and am a keen camper. Many older, retired people here seem to have invested in RVs which we call motorhomes. They are really expensive here and cost from £75,000 upwards to more than £150,0000 which is US terms is about $100,000 upwards. Because the UK is small and has narrow roads for the most part, once they get to a camping site, they never move. They cannot park in any car park and must use the one for buses and lorries.. They will not fit into supermarket parking spaces or road spaces and so they cannot even go shopping in them. Many of them will not fit onto campsite pitches and so they must park in the car park They might just a well have a much cheaper caravan.

[@twiblr]

As a person nearing retirement, I found this video enlightening.

[@foundryfinancial]

Thanks!

[@st.george007]

I spent my money on a furnished and finished southern european house that I airbnb. It earns it's keep and gives me 5 months of holiday each year. So happy! I supported my son through post secondary school, success, so happy!

[@hilarygibson3150]

I bought a boat 5 years ago and dont regret it. I estimated having it for 5 years, covid put a dent in plans, so i may hold it for a bit longer. But I'll just buy a smaller one thats easier to handle. My boat has definitely been an experience, i try to head out for 5-6 monthsxat a time. Ive made new friends as well

[@foundryfinancial]

Yeah, it’s not a bad decision for everyone - but you have to go into it with eyes wide open. Thanks for sharing!

[@Ariadne76-k3d]

I once heard that the two happiest days in a boat owner's like are the day they buy the boat and the day they sell it!😊

[@run4cmt]

I have a friend that retired at 55 after getting a divorce. Bought a big 5 bedroom house on a busy street with all the bedrooms upstairs. The new husband quit work also at 55. Their bedroom is on the third floor with steep stairs. They gutted the first floor and put on a huge deck taking away the whole yard. Now they are building a huge garage. They are creating a huge white elephant they may not be able to afford.

[@rubyoro0]

If I ever divorce I will never remarry. Because if I then die the new husband and his kids will get everything I worked for and my children will get nothing.

[@imnitguy]

@@rubyoro0 yep. This happens all the time.

[@aaronchandler2380]

I didn’t realize how much I hate driving until I bought my RV. Driving our RV is nerve racking.

[@lennonrocks100]

I heard my dad for my entire life tell me what a pain owning a boat is. I've owned one for 12 years and love love it. Bought it used for 3k and have added onto it little by little. It is a 15ft aluminum deep v hull with a 30 hp newer 4 stroke outboard motor. For trolling I use an ipilot guided electric motor. Mostly I change the oil once a year which is really easy and keep it in my garage so it doesn't freeze. Now I have heard how costly owning a large boat can be but I am so happy with the one I have. My suggestion is for occasional family water skiing or pulling tubes rent a big boat for a day. For cheap, easy, relaxing, low maintenance, low stress, mostly fishing, buy a smaller boat with a smaller outboard motor.

[@uncareid5557]

I have no regret whatsoever buying a bicycle for $2K. It replaced another high end bike I bought in 1975. And it is cheaper than heart surgery!

[@davepaturno4290]

I've added a Shwinn stationery bike and converted a room to a gym. That way, we have no excuse to not exercise.

[@davepaturno4290]

@uncareid5557 We bought a stationary bike and set up a home gym so that there is no excuse for not getting exercise when the weather makes that hard to do outside.

[@uncareid5557]

@@davepaturno4290 I can always go to my local gym and swim or hit their cardio equipment

[@fueledbymusic3]

You want to know what makes me happy. I'm 53. I love drama Free family and friend gatherings. Going out and breathe the fresh air! Ride my bike for miles and miles. Enjoy time to myself at times. Walk malls or areas like a beach with a fun atmosphere! Watch people's lives. And anything else THAT COST NO MONEY TO ENJOY

[@kaohsiung99]

Good points

[@Samathachavez-k1w]

@@fueledbymusic3 Hi dear Good evening . I hope my comment didn't sound as a form of privacy invasion your comment tells of a man with a beautiful heart which led me to comment I don’t a normally write in the comment section but I think you deserve this complement. If you don’t mind can we be friends? Thanks God bless you….🌺🌺🌺

[@BakoSooner]

Golf! My country club membership bring my wife and I abundant amount of joy. We golf almost every day which consumes half of our day. We have also met some great people through golf. Golf also provides some exercise (don’t laugh as you’re sitting on your couch flipping channel all day). We feel that this will give us enjoyment for most of our retirement. I would recommend golf to almost everyone who retires. And golfing is way more enjoyable if their spouse also golf. Fore!

[@BenRovello]

I’d be retiring or working less in 5 years, and considering this financial recession, I’m curious to know best how people split their pay, how much of it goes into savings, spendings or investments, I earn around $250K per year but nothing to show for it yet.

[@johnp139]

@@xavier_lucasYou didn’t LOSE ANYTHING, most of it if not more will come back unless you sold while low.