I understand the traditional model when starting to invest in RE is to own your primary residence already before investing in rentals unless house hacking or BRRR. That's probably the most efficient and immediate ways to reap benefits of RE investing. But I'm wondering is it wrong to start buying rentals while not owning your primary residence?

Example scenario

You have a family and the kids are just into school age. Your current market is a higher market for SFH with very low multi units( more a rural area) available, but absolutely love it there. Surrounding areas (10-25 min travel)have decent rental opportunities but family size (5) has house hacking seeming as more of a hindrance to the family. Schooling isn't as good in those rental areas and family is not to keen on having neighbors that close for the minimal time housing hacking takes.

The rental market in the surrounding areas are strong and have an equal if not lower entry cost than even using a FHA loan in the current market for the SFH.

What would be the issue, outside of your paying someone else's debt off and not your own, with getting a couple multifamily units and leveraging into the area and house you want while paying rent?

Not everyone's path is the same and obviously this wouldn't be the most ideal. Nor would you be maximizing your return, albeit still getting a return, but there would be progression towards the goal.

I would love to hear thoughts