Also in the beginning, establishing communication frequency and other expectations.

Should I have this established before purchasing a property, or accumulate it over time after making a purchase?

Most well-established companies will operate in depts like you mentioned the new company does.

I am providing SEO and digital marketing consulting for a design-build firm operating in established and up-and-coming luxury mountain communities in the Colorado Rockies.

If your goal is to eventually solicit from people who are not your friends and are looking for passive income, then you need to consider establishing a syndicate.

You will find the highest number of Arab restaurants/grocers/entertainment here and a great and thriving community.Hey Aditya and nice to meet you!

Establish Track Record (Small Deals & Personal Equity): Most GP's start by acquiring/developing smaller properties where they alone can fund the equity side of the capital stack (IE - no raise). 

I could just get better at establishing relationships with the trades and hope that my cost to manage will go down in the future.

Also, is there any reason I would need to establish an LLC?

It sounds like you should bring on an established PMC as a partner to help walk you through the steps of growing instead of trying to learn everything on your own.