Looking for 1st rental Property in Venice, FL

[Mike Scott-Smith]

Good day BP community,

I have been watching the forums from afar for a while. My wife and I had to step away from potential rental property investing for ~1.5 years for personal reasons. We are now ready to jump back on the horse and are seeking our first rental property.  We have been looking in the Venice, FL area primarily. 1. It is close to our home, 2. The area is lower priced than Sarasota, and 3. There are great beaches nearby.

Before we jump in, I am curious if anyone has insight into the rental market in Venice FL. I know that the homes that we are looking at are older homes, as in they were built in the 70's or 80's. Some of these homes come with some dated features, and finding updated homes are coming at a premium. I have only been looking at homes that my realtor has been sending and have not yet actually toured any homes. 

Before we begin touring homes I am seeking input from other members. Since I will finance my 1st property as a regular mortgage is there an issue having the home under an LLC? Anyone with experience with an umbrella LLC, and each home under in a unique LLC? I have some research to do to determine if there is any possibility in my thoughts as a private financing vs. business style financing.

Also curious if anyone is seeking other investors in the area at this time.

Thanks,

Mike Scott-Smith