****properties under an LLC or not?****

[Benjamin J Haithcoat]

I went to my credit union today and inquired about their requirements for financing on small multi-family investment properties. Unfortunately, this particular CU doesn't work with multi-family properties. The loan officer informed me that it would be a good idea to form an LLC, and have this particular entity own the properties to avoid personal liabilities for me when lawsuits are concerned. From the podcasts and webinars I've listened to, I've learned that having an LLC isn't a must but is another option that we all have.

My question is this: Would it be better to start an LLC before I purchase my first property, or should I just have the property under my name?