One of the benefits to possession is you can rent it out.

So from what I understand from you I would have no protection, however, would the LLC benefit me for any tax benefits?

This is an important distinction because it allows you to maximize your tax benefits across your portfolio. 

Tenant Turnover and Vacancy Rates Impact: Rent control tends to incentivize tenants to stay longer, as they benefit from paying below-market rents.

Subscription services are getting the reputation as being predatory because often times it ends up costing more than just buying the actual product, and the primary benefit is typically more profit for the company.

Using your VA loan benefit is a great way to get started. 

(just kidding you some of these benefits are indeed counter intuitive because so many of the gurus and experts out there only focus on the obvious). 

You will reap long term benefits by doing so.

It might also behoove you to hire the firm to help you navigate what you need and maximize every tax benefit out there. 

These areas won't give you cash flow without significant downpayment, but their price/rent ratios are much more friendly compared to other cities in the Bay Area and you can also benefit from their appreciation.Another thing to put on your radar is the Real Estate Professional Status (REPS) election.