Structuring for tax//legal/asset protection...and life control

[Matthew Klegon]

Hi BP - I currently live (rent) and work in NYC but want to (i) house hack, and maybe down the road invest further, in New Jersey, (ii) invest with 2 people in multifamily properties in Massachusetts, one of which has a family connection to a property manger and contractor we will use, and (iii) have my own consulting business on the side, not related to real estate (but, in addition to active income, to use for a home office tax credit and other business expense write-offs, etc). I have a good but demanding job now but want to begin the transition into a more entrepreneurial lifestyle where I have more control over my life, time and finances. 

What is the best way to structure this from a taxation/estate planning/legal/asset protection viewpoint? Entities, states...whatever information or resources is appreciated. I have seen many different answers to this questions (e.g. Cook Islands trusts!) so I am curious if any trends in advice emerge. 

Thank you all in advance!