DEAR ABBY: I find that I get asked far too often why I haven't bought a house yet. I'm 42, single and have a master's degree, but like lots of other people I had to go into debt to get it.
I'm not complaining about that. What bugs me is the invasive question I don't feel I should have to answer, usually asked by people whose parents helped them to buy a house. I don't come from a rich family, and it feels like people are flaunting their privilege when they ask me. Duh, I don't have $20,000 for a down payment. But I shouldn't have to say that.
How can I respond to this question while not being rude or actually answering it? Better yet, how do I respond in such a way that people stop asking? -- IN DEBT IN ILLINOIS
DEAR IN DEBT: This reply should do the trick: "There are many reasons why, and it's complicated. When and if I do decide to buy, I'll let you know."