Should I wait to form my LLC until after my first purchase

[Travis Boyd]

Hi all. I'm planning to launch my long term rental portfolio in 2025. I live near Seattle and I'm currently trying to choose between OH and TN for my target market as an out of state investor (which could still change). I'm planning to start an LLC but I'm wondering if I should wait until I have 100% chosen my market so I use the state of that market? Or should I just get the LLC formed under WA state where I live? Also, should I find a CPA that specializes in real estate investment before forming an LLC and before purchasing my first property? For context, I have $80k in liquidity and $1m in equity in my primary residence so working on opening a HELOC and plan to add multiple properties each year through the BRRRRR method. I wouldn't be surprised if I end up with properties in multiple states so not sure how much it matters where my LLC is located. Any and all advice is welcome!