The need for an LLC is grossly exaggerated on BiggerPockets and other websites.

Very exaggerated.

Many times, individuals can post things in frustration that are exaggerated, one sided or even untrue.

Sorry, but that's a ridiculous exaggeration...and again, it appears to be used to instill fear in inexperienced investors...

I live in 38111 and currently own one rental in 38111 as well and agree almost 100% with what has been said above, though Alex is exaggerating the picture slightly with his colorful imagery.

I would confer with their statement that some on the other side of the coin are exaggerating when they claim their structure "has been blessed by the IRS".  

Overall, I believe the reports of B&M demise are greatly exaggerated.

BUT, you'd better hope that @Eugene Rogachevsky is exaggerating in his helping-the-Seller scenario, whereby the roof and plumbing etc need replacing, while you're already responsible for paying $1,200/m, even if the "my mom died again" Tenant is not making timely/complete rent payments to you.

Appraisers have general numbers for specific line items on repairs so you can not exaggerate here but you can certainly use "retail numbers" and not actual costs.I provide all appraisers with a list of comps, I detail out each defect or amenity in each comp and use this info as support for my subject property valuation.

Make sure to follow the ever-changing rules of search engines, otherwise, your site could become "blacklisted" - which will provide a tough time getting traffic and could bump you from Page 1 to Page 1,000,000 (okay, exaggerated number, but you get my drift.)To save time, you could also outsource this.