Persistent historically-low interest rates have been facilitating living beyond one's means for far too long.  There is an allure to living the higher lifestyles, continually promoted by marketers and sellers, but there comes a time to be more realistic and live within your means.  In my parent's day, you saved up for nearly everything except real estate and possibly a vehicle.  Credit has become far too easy to obtain, and those 84 month vehicle loans are ridiculous!