re: What retirement savings balance is your goal, and by what age?

There seem to be a lot of people that are astonished by some of the successes on here. I don't think people are bragging to people they don't know as much as they are trying to help plant the bug. If you are not as fortunate, pay attention.

Assumptions: You plan to have more money later in life than you do currently. Don't live outside your means. Don't try to keep up with the Jones and portray yourself as someone you are not.

Step 1: Never invest money you can't afford to lose, would it suck (YES), but wouldn't effect your ability to pay bills.

Step 2: The earlier the better, time and compounding is key.

Step 3: Maximize your input into your retirement accounts, ROTH accounts would be preferred.

Step 4: Be aggressive, very aggressive. Take chances, nobody ever got rich earning 1% in a savings account.

Step 5: Work your arse off to get things moving as soon as possible.

Step 6: Parlay real estate investments into bigger and better properties. Timing and location are everything.

Bonus info: Divorces and child support will surely wreck the best laid plan, pick your spouse accordingly. lol.