What would you think for the side gig, LLC or not even a corp as i can do sole owner?

Go for the independent PMs, not just a real estate agent offering property management on the side or one of those cookie-cutter franchises (PMI / RPM). 

I do plan to live in the vacant side at least for a year, with a VA loan after a year I can take out a loan on another property.

One quoted $20k to put piers on 3 sides of the home, and another quoted $10k to put piers on one side. 

I’m self managing myself but the tax side of it is a little confusing to me but I’m recording everything involved as far as maintenance, traveling, expenses etc. just want to know what some people would do in my situation or what to I can benefit from come tax season  @Angelo LlamasI recommend that you find a real estate accountant to help you understand and prepare your taxes.Bigger Pockets is a great place to find a real estate tax accountant. 

One side has a tenant lease that expires JAN 2026, and the other has a lease that expires AUG 2025.

Bird dogging is a way to make money but its not gonna get you rich.WE have had many do some birddogging for us on the private lending side to find qualified people that need a loan and its interesting how many last a few weeks - I sense the same holds true for real estate bird dogs.

Each exit strategy offers numerous advantages on both sides. 

I'm glad to help with info, or potential rental estimates for properties you're thinking about on the STR side.

The flip side is that it is also very competitive to buy.