Will it affect my 2018 adjusted gross income? 

Because it is a duplex you may benefit from looking into other banks in your area, especially small banks and not the big names.

You are correct that there is no school tax adjustment for non-owner occupied properties.If you visit the county tax assessor's office, they can calculate the exact amount of the property tax bill you will receive for a proposed rental acquisition.

Properties in Wellesley and Weston are roaring high in the past decade and sometimes makes more returns than a multi-family, and it is easier to keep its value when there is financial down-turning.I understand that it is totally a personal choice based on the financial situation of a family, personal preference, and personal understanding and sense of risks/benefits with regarding to such choices.

@Justin R.Your CPA is being moderately conservative, and your QI is being extremely conservative.Nothing is wrong with either approach - as long as you knowingly choose the relative safety of a conservative approach over the financial benefits of a more aggressive approach. 

There is often a legal notice published for the benefit of the decedent's creditors. 

Honestly with your lack of experience, you would really benefit from an experienced agent to show you around a home.Even if you have your real estate license, they don't just give you a magic key to let you into any house.

I have recently had several clients pursue investments in New Hampshire. No more then 2 hours from Boston, one of the highest priced markets in the country you tend to find many good investments for much less acquisit...

Even if the cash is the same as the Quiet title action, it benefits you to not have to wait for that action to take place.   

Whats the benefits from doing that?