I think, it can be a difficult call. Both the cash and credit models can work, but both can have their problems.
Wait to pay cash, sometimes the time has passed, kids are to old, you are to old etc. You can miss out on years and years of fun and memories.
Go with to much of a loan, you deny yourself other things in life, and you end up stressed out. And the family life is stressed. Worrying about every nickel and dime
Hard to find that sweet spot and balance. One thing we have done, is put at least 25% down ( usually more like 50%) so we are never underwater. Helps me sleep better at night. Knowing I can sell if I have to, and get out of the payments. Probably not a perfect solution, but it does work for us
