I never use my credit cards for luxury items. The only thing I have ever financed in my life has been my house. I only use my credit cards to pay my monthly bills for internet, utilities, etc, and the only reason I do is to be sure the bills are correct before I pay them. I pay off my credit cards every month once I verify they are correct.

With that being said, cash (and patience) are always, ALWAYS key. For example, I have always wanted an AFM, but I have never wanted to shell out the $6k+ for one. Then I stumbled upon a lot of 4 HUO machines for $10k, a TSPP, TOM, BDK, and SP. Took the TSPP and sold it for $4000 since I already had one. Kept the TOM and SP. Turns out the local op wanted a BDK for the route and was willing to trade a routed but working AFM for it. That makes an AFM for $2000. Winner winner chicken dinner.

Patience is a virtue, cash is king, and most of all, NEVER spend more than you can afford. You'll pinball yourself out of your home if you aren't careful. Trade/sell your way up like I did.