I may us a "friend" that has an LLC, but will not create one just to be the trustee.

If you do go the BRRR route I'd definitely recommend using a general contractor and working with a investor friendly agent. 

When investing in high cash-flow markets, I always recommend working with an investor friendly agent so you're able to gain the right insight on the different areas and the risks involved.

Meetups + books + podcasts are the way to go, but meetups are the most crucial to your confidence level and to know people like you do this every day.I agree with @Nathan Gesner on the heads up, when you say you are new and want help, everyone has a pitch, that's why meetups are so good - most have no pitch, just networking, unless it's run by a hard money lender.I have a couple friends who invest in the Lehigh Valley that I can connect you with when the time comes.

Are you planning on using your license to sell houses or help friends and family buy houses? 

I wanted to have a spot to rent out and cover the monthly mortgage payments while securing a small spot to have for myself in the next 30 years for when I no longer reside in Charlotte but want to visit friends, or downsize.

Folks appreciate enthusiasm and genuine curiosity.A friend of mine, Alex, felt the same hesitation but decided to give it a shot.

If you want to optimize you could identify the busy season and make that STR friendly and then the rest of the year block it for longer stays.

If you're just holding a single property, many start with online services like LegalZoom or IncFile, which are affordable and user-friendly.

@Elizabeth Colegrove I actually had your podcast recommened by another friend and BP member on Friday.