.$100k can potentially be deducted as replacement debt. 

IF you want to get into real estate and potentially learn and make a few bucks on a property in Abilene let me know.

It potentially offers legal protection.

Not only can you collect rent to go towards your mortgage, you're also building equity that can potentially be used down the road for your next home or investment.

We fully renovated both units, improving the property’s value and rental potential.

Some areas are oversaturated with RV parks or tiny home communities, while others have untapped potential.

Instead of jumping into an expensive Long Island market with negative cash flow, consider investing in a Texas market like San Antonio, Houston, or DFW suburbs—these areas offer strong rental demand, lower property taxes than NY, and better cash flow potential.

It is cheaper then FHA mortgage insurance, and you can potentially drop it in the future without refinancing unlike FHA. 

Cost to wait is maybe save couple grand on zoning attorney but could potentially make that up by earning some rent earlier (vs. unused space). 

Overall, this seems like a strong deal, but make sure to factor in potential surprises or changes in market conditions.