" but it definitely increases ones exposure to events that one cannot control. "
That is very true in respect of borrowing to buy property, it is also true in respect to renting as the rental price is something that one cannot reasonably control.
It is just a matter of choice.
In respect to the original post, it does take courage to admit that you perhaps did not choose the best path (in hindsight) but really none of us do. Take what learning you can and move on.
I started again in about 1997 with very, very little but decided to get a home again and just did it, paid it off and added another to the stable.
Don't listen to those that know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. Those 150 or so thumbs you got in the past may have felt good at the time but the old liquid soon cools in your pocket after feeling warm for a short time.
Good luck, family first, the rest is just bananas.
