There is nothing complicated about being a registered agent - you receive an annual report in the mail which you file online once a year. 

I feel that not only do I need to evaluate whether or not I want to invest in a C property, but whether I should invest in multi's at all.....especially one in California that makes the eviction process very complicated and costly.

I'm sure there are some work arounds but it gets complicated and you need to make absolutely certain that you do not do anything prohibited or you will blow up the entire IRA.IRAs are taxed at trust rates.

And that just further complicates the problem.

(This one is really complicated, so we will definitely be talking to the CPA/Lawyer about it.)Is there any LEGAL way to not pay property taxes?

To make things even more complicated, we are also planning on listing another rental property within the next months ($300k).

I see that I was wrong on the Sec 121 exemption for the deceased spouse; upon further research, it looks like there is still some benefit, but that its a bit more complicated to calculate.The 1031 exchange sounds more interesting than I realized.

I would not lease the homes until I had the title so it will not complicate the eviction process if you have to go there. 

As far as Japan goes, it's complicated and usually buying a house or land is a money pit due to high taxes and degradation. 

@Michael Faudoa This can be as complicated or as simple as you want to make it.