It kind of depends on the type of properties you're looking for funding on.

Depends on what your goals are. 1-4 units are still residential, so it doesn't really matter how you start.

Quote from @Mike Sfera: This depends on the PM that you are speaking with when you reach out.

Weather differs depending on where properties are located and even snow accumulation within the same geographic area will vary year to year.

The cost of setting up an LLC can be about $500-$800, just depends on the state and what benefits you want for your business.

What documents do they require, what credit scores do they allow, how do they verify previous rental history, etc.?

So depending on if you are using it personally and want to have it pay for itself or you just want cash flow will help determine where you should look and what type/size home you want to consider.Please reach out anytime and let me know if I can be of help.

Here is a recommendation I have for you as you begin to figure out what area you want to invest in.This website is a great reference point for figuring out what each area is like. https://www.areavibes.com/It gives you a total LIVABILITY score for each street and zip code & discusses crime rate, schoolsUse this rating and classification system I have created over time to get an idea of the "Class" for the area - A class B class & so onHere is my rating & classification for each livability score.80 and above A+78/79 A76/77 A-74/75 B+72/73 B70/71 B-68/69 C+66/67 C64/65 C-60/63 D59 and below FBest of luck and let me know if I can help answer any questions! 

Comparing real estate to the stock market really depends on your needs.

Depending on the county some provide public records of owners' name and numbers to the public thats are attached to the property so people can reach them