I would spend money to enhance and update to current standards the search functionality and person to person tagging so it's easier to find stuff.

Pretty incredible how rapid the demand has increased in the past 12 months especially. 

Much easier. 

I do not have/use a checklist for what I consider the easier things - like couch, dining table, rugs, mattresses, linens, etc. 

I want to know is it more cost effective or easier to purchase the property alone and put it in a mortgage in our name or purchase the LLC from him that holds the property within it.

With your experience working in building materials this could come easier to you. 

And eventually it shifted to more straight rentals as the market for capital got easier again.

They have the correct lease agreement and disclosures and make it much easier.

Quote from @Fernando Martin-Gullans: Hey y’all, I’m a retail investor with 2 SFH rentals worth a combined ~$650k looking to utilize some of my stored equity to buy more out-of-state properties, but I’m not quite sure how best to proceed given that my interest rates are incredibly low (leaning me away from refinancing) and neither property is owner-occupied (which I believe prevents me from using a HELOC).

These loans are based on a property’s rental income rather than your personal income, making it easier to qualify as you expand your portfolio.Networking and Mentorship:You’re already off to a great start by reaching out here!