What kind of legal entity should I do for property holdings?

[Rachelle P.]

Just closing on my first rental and am approaching this aggressively with the idea of using properties as retirement income. My husband has a business already, but we want to separate our real estate from his business. We also want to protect ourselves as we are both divorced with kids from previous marriages, and hope to avoid any potential legal entanglements from either side that would leave one of us out in the cold (note: we conduct business ethically but want to plan ahead and cover our bases!). Any suggestions from those of you with experience would be greatly appreciated!