If you hate the idea of paying on a mortgage for 30 years, you can avoid that by selecting a shorter term and paying a higher monthly payment.

You could also agree to a 30-year mortgage, but make an extra principal-only payment every year. Because an extra payment reduces the principal amount, you end up owing less interest and you can pay off the mortgage sooner.

Each year, set up a reminder to make an extra payment. This strategy could shorten your mortgage term by four years.