Many of them don't have a lot of cash reserves if they're paying high mortgage, rent, have children etc. 

Paying down both will accelerate pay off for both to be in line for my retirement timing.

The goal is to use post-tax dollars in order to avoid paying taxes on the gains.2.

Hi all,I just met with a real estate broker and they let me know that in Washington the buyer is technically responsible for paying the buyers broker commission upon closing.

Presuming you are somewhat real estate savvy you can list it on MLS yourself and avoid giving up the seller’s commission you would pay with an agent.  

those who are looking for a move in 2 weeks ahead of time are those who haven't found a place yet or people who have to move (eg being kicked out of their old place for not paying rent).  

My city also has a tax abatement program for new construction so I pay taxes on the land only for the first 10 years.

To really reap the benefits of your ownership of the NY property over the years you'll want to sell and do a 1031 exchange whilch will allow you to reposition your real estate anywhere in the country and into any type of investment real estate --- without having to pay tax on the profit from your sale or the recapture of depreciation. 

Are you all still including this coverage (Wind/Hail/Storm) and paying the premium for it or are you buying policies without Wind coverage?

If the new people want the unit prior to the end of the current tenant's lease, I would tell them they would have to pay the daily rent beginning the day they got the key and took possession.