I understand the skepticism and the concerns expressed. 

Just to get an understanding of the value of the location from others perspective.

Real estate investment involves risks, and understanding the nuances of each strategy will help you make informed decisions.

I understand that a property can be on zillow and not listed by an agent.

Quote from @Jordan Naeem: This is a tough situation.You may understand the value of leverage, but your wife doesn't.

I would advise you to market your property to the exact type of person you see buying it, and get an understanding of what they would be looking for to know why they might be overlooking your property.

I understand you're looking for a good area with good growth at a good price in the Tri-State Area but if the numbers aren't making sense, it could be worth check out the market in the Midwest specifically in Ohio. 

Just be sure to carefully review the title commitment and understand all the exceptions. 

I understand appreciation is there but it is a small town so it’s not crazy and I am more in the cashflow game currently 

I understand that passive losses cannot reduce your taxable income and must be rolled over to be subtracted from future passive income, UNLESS you meet the special allowance that says you may deduct up to $25k in passive losses from taxable income if your modified AGI is less than $100k that year.