Help - entity creation question

[James Tatlow]

Hi BP-

I recently talked with an attorney about setting up an LLC to hold a couple of rental properties. Previous rentals had been held in my own name, but I wanted to transfer current properties into an LLC. I had him file the paperwork with the state of CA. There must have been a miscommunication because he filed articles of incorporation for a general stock corporation (form ARTS-GS).

When I followed up with him, he said we could convert to an LLC if I wanted to but there was no real legal of tax difference between the two entities given what I was using them for.

I just wanted to check the forums before making a decision. Should I convert to an LLC or is the general stock corporation going to serve the same purpose? My main goal here is to create a barrier between the rental properties and my personal assets.

Thanks in advance for your insight!