I don't know if anyone's mentioned it but don't make the mistake that a lot of people make when they get their own home - start spending too much money on it. Some renovate and others upgrade all their furniture. Don't do either. Live with what you already have. Mortgage rates keep going up and look like they will for a while yet so keep your money in the bank so you have it sitting there as your repayment rises. You can always fix things later and get new furniture later when rates start to drop.