I know it can be debated that investors work harder after "retiring", but let's save that discussion for another day. 

Long story short I do not have a basement but the kitchen I am remodeling is over sized so I plan to install laundry in there.I just started the search for new machines and am debating on the type.

I debated doing the exact same thing (renting to students) as i have a few friends that are renting by the room and are quite successful at it.

On, appreciation and cash flow debate. 

No agreeing, no debate no opinions.

I'm debating whether to stick with a SFH with a soft budget cap of $150k, or a 2-4 unit for more. 

I am debating if I should set up a LLC or not exactly for the reasons you mentioned as well.

Uncle Pennybags otherwise known as "Monopoly Man" (spooky debatable)

I've been hearing about Fundrise and debating on trying it out.

I'll have to spend some time browsing the forum to catch up on the debate about which markets are most attractive.