Q1) yes. relationships (including marriage) is an investment. Absolutely an investment. You meet a wrong partner? Total Loss. all aspects of it. why is it an investment? because you use your heart, your mind, and your time, and also your money. Im on my 3rd time maybe perhaps aiming to get into a LTR. but yes, again, this time, is absolutely treat it like an investment. i hope both of us can be with good long term ROI. Q2) low cost ways of dating: going on hikes are best! go to different trails, pack your own lunch. if to buy some beverages. it won't cost you an arm and a leg. watch movies at home. Cheap and easy. skip the theaters if your budget is tight. Ride bicycles are good too, you can go places. but the upfront cost is to get a good bike, or not. here are some of my examples.