Entry Level questions multi-family

[Damien Anderson]

Hi All

Im at the beginning of my REI journey. I have saved some money and read a few books but I still have some very basic questions.

If I want to get a loan, let's say 20% down, 30yr for property in another state, do I need to apply for a loan at bank in that State?  Can I apply for a loan in the state I am in at large national bank that has a branches all over the country?

One aspect Im not clear on is an LLC and OA. I feel like I need one but Im kind of on the fence because I live in CA and you have to pay $800 every year for an LLC. Is an LLC the only way I can get tax benefits and use for expenses. As an example, if I travel to another state to view properties, do I have to have LLC to expense that? Im starting so small, Im not sure if LLC is worth it yet, Id imagine on larger properties, with partners that it becomes much more critical. What am I missing? Should I just go to a lawyer now?