with that said, i get another benefits as well, including depreciation that helps offset taxes on my W2 income, and i love watching the debt get paid down every month.creative strategies can generate more income, but they are higher effort and higher risk. 

I am also a disabled veteran at 70%, so I don't get 100% off of property taxes, but I do get a discount, in addition to the benefits of homestead exemption. 

We see a lot of investors take negative cash flow in the beginning but the value in the properties is the remarkable appreciation we see in Austin and the tax benefits landlords enjoy.

Definitely slow down and get a handle on the hidden costs and benefits in a few different options. 

.* How does it benefit the buyer when the owner carries the loan? 

This is straight from the Chicago Association of REALTORS website:A reminder that the Chicago Residential Lease, and all of CAR’s forms and contracts, are an exclusive member benefit for use only by Chicago Association of REALTORS® members or those who are party to a transaction facilitated by a Chicago Association of REALTORS® member.

Additionally, consider consulting with a real estate professional or mentor to gain insights and guidance tailored to your goals.

Bonus depreciation/Cost Seg studies are typically most beneficial for owners of STRs and Real Estate Professionals, outside of those ownerships you do get some benefits but it is often not worth the value in the Study and take a long time to realize. 

I now plan to sell the property in January 2025, or Spring time depending on market, and am hoping to avoid capital gains because of the 2 year hold period.

Paying off rental properties doesn't gain you anything.