Perhaps rather than buying our "dream house" and risk falling over that edge, we should reconsider the dream itself.
Now that I am reaching 40,I have that choice too. I have not traveled much. And if I buy home, it would not serve purpose as I would be paying mortgage forever and after death someone else not my own child would benefit it. If I travel and see the world, not sure if I would be able to do that but I would be partially happy. Will power is drained by parents and I am not motivated for either as I lived like robot. I guess universe has to push me to make a choice and that too in a way I can understand.
It is a hard life because there are constant opportunity cost factors to consider. Travel is great, but living without money in this world sucks for most people who do it. Owning a house is great, but is also not for everyone, and the limitations it imposes can suck too. It is a personal decision, but for me, I am hoping that at least my daughter's life is better.