FHA security instruments require a borrower to establish bona fide occupancy in a home as the borrower’s principal residence within 60 days of signing the security instrument, with continued occupancy for at least one year."

I’m not creative when it comes to interior design and wondered if I should bite the bullet and hire a professional to establish our interior design theme.

This can work, but there is a potential pitfall: assumptions.NOTE: I am not an attorney or business advisor.

They deal with other clients than you, and would benefit from keeping the business consulting income if you buy it versus going to someone else with a different professional advisor setup. 

These tools can help you input various cost estimates and projections to arrive at a reasonable operating cost estimate.Professional Consultation: If needed, consult with a real estate accountant or financial advisor who specializes in real estate investments.

You mention not having much credit established, but do you know what your score is? 

The law also established a slush fund for "legal services for tenants", meaning that we can be sued with our own tax dollars.

I don't mind committing 2-5 years to get everything running and established, so long as by the end of that time frame any portfolio I have is set up in a way to set it and forget it.

I defy you to name a title vehicle that cannot be pierced, even LLCs owning LLCs.Yes, have to file tax returns, but you don't know what your neighbors' tax returns say, and courts don't order turn over of tax returns as a matter of course, and even then, it's usually after judgment has been rendered.Trustees have to be honorable, which is why I use established banks and trust companies.Having your property in a trust will not protect it from a lawsuit.

Nick Hubbard Senior Loan Advisor  is this  true ??