One thing I keep seeing is how people look at sites like Zillow and think of their home price and that translates into their wealth.
It does not.
Not until you sell, and the ink is dry.
Then, and only then, if your home appreciated will you see any actual monetary gain.
Too many people buy a house with the idea of “resale” value and not if they can actually afford it. Had one co-worker who bought a house he could barely afford and needed roommates at all times.
Another thing people seem to forget after the last housing crash is that housing prices/value can fall. Parts of CA are seeing this now. Depending on the sale of a home to fund your retirement is not a viable plan.