Since the properties are in New York you have a few extra steps you need to do to keep all of your funds out of NYs hands at closing.Here's an interesting BP thread on the South Carolina property tax issue you mentioned. https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/725/topics/604427-south.... 

McKinney is thriving, but so are other parts of North Texas, and a broader perspective could reveal other great opportunities.Here’s what I’ve observed managing a significant number of rentals in the area:Bedrooms and Layouts:3-bed, 2-bath homes consistently attract the largest pool of tenants and have the highest occupancy rates.4-bedroom homes have grown in demand, especially with the rise of remote work, as tenants look for extra space to use as a home office.Square footage is less critical than number of beds and baths.Supply and Demand:McKinney’s growth is driving demand, but the quality of the location matters greatly.

It's easy to obtain, costs very little, and doesn't require extra, on-going effort to maintain.

The goal is to minimize unnecessary usage and prevent extra costs, rather than blindly paying whatever bill comes in.

I’d plan for extra amenities like special decor or concierge services. 

It’s all about what will draw guests in and make them choose your listing over others.2️⃣ Standout Amenities: Rentals that offer something extra, like a hot tub, game room, or eye-catching design, often attract more bookings and higher rates.

The inspections have become so nitpicky over purely cosmetic items there has to be an extra $1-2k per year to keep up with the punch list every 1-2 years.

I allow pets and charge a pet rent of $35 a month, its nice bit of extra money and pet owners tend to stay longer as tenants.

Delta has not charged me extra for the new block.

You either have to earn extra money via sweat equity (working as your own PM or do the renovation work), or you have to be ok with a negative cash flow.