In my endeavors to help people buy, sell and finance homes, I see many financial profiles ranging from families that struggle to others that have stability and others that have huge success. One differentiating factor is their commitment, focus and discipline to these three fundamental investment principles.
Please don't take this as formal financial advice as I am not formally trained in this area. Although I do have a MBA in finance from NYU, see a huge array of clients personal finances and do have some life experience that I can draw on, make sure you consult a financial advisor to find out what path is best for your situation.