In this episode, we look at strategies for dealing with debt and mortgages when you goal is financial independence.  Should we focus on investing, or should we aim to be debt-free?  Which will help us become financially independent faster?  We discuss the ins and outs, and our thoughts on the various options to help you decide. Discussion points... The worst form of debt  (02:31)Our thoughts on credit cards  (06:05)HECS/HELP debt  (08:51)Mortgage debt and calculating the benefit  (13:28)Should you pay down your home loan or invest?  (19:06)Accessing home equity in retirement  (23:56)How does debt affect our ability to become FI?  (28:31)Mortgage strategies to optimise your cashflow  (30:57)Margin loans and investment loans  (47:08)Takeaways from this episode  (52:29) Resources... Our favourite portfolio tool:  SharesightArticle:  Paying Off Your Mortgage vs InvestingPodcast:  Emergency Funds & Short Term SavingsHome loan extra repayment calculator More from us... Pat's blog:  Life Long ShuffleDave's blog:  Strong Money AustraliaContact us with questions and feedback:  [email protected]