It depends a lot on one's circumstances and plans.

Spirit nailed this one!

For home or investment location is the most important. Tenants will desire the best spot and you can fix most of the rest over time with willing planning department and no local restrictions

I am a firm believer in both, over the years that has served me well. My first purchase was an investment property.

My trouble is that I don't differentiate between the two, it's always an investment whether I pay the mortgage or someone else is doing it for me.

Huge different between looking at investment properties vs home.  I work with all kinds of buyers, investors to first time home buyers, a lot of soon to be retirees (looking at you baby boomers!) who want to buy now in Tucson, AZ, rent it out, and then retire here.  When buying for your home, it is far more than just an investment.  When shopping for primary residence it is not like trying to buy Apple stock at a 52 week home, more to it then just the numbers.

I own several single family homes that are investment properties. Most will be paid in full by the time I retire in a few years. They are a good source of income, a good tax write off and easy to liquidate for fast cash. I wish I had started sooner.... Both of my daughters owned their own home and at least one rental property in their early 20's

Real estate ownership is a key element for building family wealth.

The tax advantages of home ownership make it a smart decision.

Richie,

It really depends on an individuals goals and personality.  I would suggest they contact their financial adviser, accountant, etc., and not look to their agent for the answers.  A