Because even if you desire to, most probably you will move to somewhere else within 10 years. Average american move every 7 years. You may move to more prosperous region, like DC region, or move to wherever job is paying you higher in the future. Few people get stuck in one place for 15 years, let alone 30 years. So, you need to use bank’s money to ride out this 10 year, hopefully by the end of 10 year, you will make 50% gain on your house. Since you will buy in southern VA, I will use 50% 10 year gain. But if you live in DC suburb, I would say you should expect to get 100% gain in 10 years. Since money is devaluing every day, it makes no sense to pay off low interest loan. Use your money in some other high yield investment.