
Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Before Retirement? A Strategic Guide for US Homeowners
Retirement marks a pivotal shift from wealth accumulation to distribution—and your mortgage is one of the biggest levers in this equation. While the idea of entering retirement debt-free is appealing, the decision to prepay your mortgage demands careful analysis of cash flow, investment opportunities, and tax implications unique to the US market. Here’s a data-driven framework to help you decide. The Case for Paying Off Your Mortgage Early 1. Psychological Freedom & Cash Flow Relief 2. Interest Savings: The Power of Time 3. Hedge Against Market Volatility The Drawbacks: Why You Might Keep Your Mortgage 1. Opportunity Cost: The 8% Rule 2. Liquidity Crunch: The Hidden Risk 3. Tax Arbitrage Strategies US-Specific Tools & Tactics 1. The “Middle Path”: Recasting...