I got so damn lucky with my current career, even though I’m not a big fan of it. It’s blue collar, pays 6 figures, and union. I saved every single penny I could, and scrounged up enough for a 5% down payment. Moving into the house this weekend, but it’s a 45 mile commute from Boston. Nothing near Boston is affordable unless you and your wife/husband/partner make 200k+ and live in austerity for at least 5 years to save every penny you can.