Your situation is a classic example of vertical vs. horizontal income streams.

Classic 3/2 just outside of town. 

@ Jessie NewtonThis is a classic scenario. 

Hi this awesome BP community,I had been interested in real estate since 2014, bought my first home in 2016.03 and got my California real estate agent license in 2018.05, have recently studied through many classical books regarding real estate, looking to get started in real estate investing!

Yes, it’s a classic, it’s narrow in scope.

Some basic, low cost landlord self study will help you sleep soundly and get a check in the mail (or in your account electronically) every month....Even the classic Landlording by Leigh Robinson is in most libraries (free) or used bookstores for a couple of bucks.Best of luck!

I am coming from a classic Dave Ramsey mentality of paying off your house in full before moving on to other real estate investments. 

I'm new to this community, though I've been listening to the podcast and reading the classics on and off for the past few years.I'm here to learn, connect, share & potentially meet future advisors, mentors, or even partners, and add value where I can.

That is classic Military house hacking right there!

@Rhonda Wilson, You're anticipating the classic exit strategy from a career of 1031 investing.