Newbie-form an LLC and use a land trust or just form an LLC for rental property?

[Cory Elder]

Hi all,

I live in Indiana. I've got enough money saved up to purchase my first investment property. I'm looking at a simple single family home or possibly a duplex (it would be a buy and hold strategy so basically renting it out). I'd like to have at least two properties by midyear 2015 and continue with that pattern for a few years until I'm able to own a full-on apartment complex.

I've seen different opinions and suggestions regarding whether one should own their property in an LLC or simply in a land trust. Would you advise I simply put the properties in an LLC or utilize a land trust as well? I plan to form an LLC regardless. What would be the benefits and/or disadvantages or having one, the other, or both?

Thanks in advance!!

[Shawn Holsapple]

@Cory Elder congratulations on moving toward getting your passive cash flow career started.

Despite the above comments, IMO - there is NO WAY I'd own anything [other than maybe my personal residence] in my name!

I've always been a firm believer in using [multiple] LLC's under a S-Corp to maximize protection and tax benefits.

EVEN if it's a complete waste of the $250 [to pay a professional] to setup the LLC, you only lost $250 plus a few dollars a year to maintain it.

I seriously doubt The Donald has Trump tower in his personal name...