Should I pay off my own home before investing in real estate?

[Eugene Davis]

My house mortgage is the only debt I have left; everything else is paid off. I could focus my income on paying it off early or start investing in rent houses now. I was very excited about getting started in real estate; I’ve made the phone calls, I’ve driven to look at several houses, and I was starting to get a team established. When I talk to my more successful friends and family, they all suggest I should focus on paying off my home first and then start investing. Their advice is undoubtedly reasonable, and it has left me wondering what the best course of action is. Any advice or opinions would be appreciated. Thank you.