New to REI- Do I form an LLC first

[Matt Grace]

Hello BP! I am planning to buy out of state (I live in Colorado) and was wondering if I should set up an LLC prior to closing my first property. I am looking to maximize the tax benefit and reduce overall risk. It is likely that I will be purchasing in multiple states should the numbers work. Again, I am new and would appreciate and insight or experience you could share. How do all of you handle out of state purchases? Multiple LLCs? Many thanks, Matt