I have since asked insurance agents if they look up members of an LLC and, while they don't do that, they do require an individual's name.

For newly constructed, purchased or renovated properties and also retroactive generally over the last 10 years, building components are properly classified into individual units of property and accurate recovery periods for computing depreciation deductions.

-How is this any different than simply leasing out individual rooms, or a guest house in a single family home? 

High high level - LLC will typically be an option for DSCR Loans (or bank other types of financing), while conventional will require you to borrow in an individual capacity, but there are pros and cons of each.BRRRR Loans: What Are the Options, and How Do DSCR Loans Stack Up?

I think this individual senses that you are new and knows he can get away with talking sht to scare you into doing stuff.

Hi,An individual came to me recently looking to borrow $500 and he has a free and clear mobile home.

AshleyNormal, however you have wide latitude in the actual agreement you agree to sign, how long, how much commission, that’s not to see individual agents have to agree to your terms, but if you feel uncomfortable with the terms you are free to negotiate or shop around, however an agent cannot legally show you a house without an signed agreement of some sort. 

The maximum special allowance of $25,000 ($12,500 for married individuals filing separate returns and living apart at all times during the year) is reduced by 50% of the amount of your modified adjusted gross income that’s more than $100,000 ($50,000 if you’re married filing separately).

Each individual one looks scary and increases near-term risk for landlords, but it effectively locks in additional compound growth in the long-term as is ultimately reduces supply and competition. 

I wouldn't be buying in CA.Growing up in the SoCal area, yes the appreciation has been great the past 20 years; but they way the state is headed, people continue to leave.Red tape in California has caused business to evacuate, high net worth individuals are also beginning to exit the state.Food for thought.