We are retired living in one unit of our 3 family. Should we buy a home at this time? We qualify for $275K?

My husband also qualifies for a no money down Veteran's loan. He is 75 and wants a private home of his own. We also own 2 other properties that have been on the market for 2 years and have not sold. Our only debt is $135K, which is a home equity line of credit on our current residence. I am concerned about taking on any more debt at this stage in our lives. I am 66 and would prefer to stay where we are, as it affords us an opportunity to travel and not stress over finances. Real Estate taxes are very high in NY. We have about $150K in stocks, our other properties are debt free and worth about $500K, although not selling. We have SS and retirement. If one of us dies, it would put a great financial burden on the other if we buy a house as we could not keep it without selling our properties or cashing in our stocks. Am I being too cautious? Should we buy a house at this time?