You can pay off your mortgage (and therefore a loan) early by not expanding your lifestyle as your salary goes up. Over the first 20 years of your mortgage, it should go up. Keep your car's quality but inexpensive, vacations economical, avoid costly renovations where possible. You got a $100 cheque from Aunt Bertha? Slam it against what you owe. It will make a significant impact against your loan, especially close to the beginning. Make it a game. Keep track of what you owe, can keep it part of the budget talk at home.