You are looking at it correctly, as others mentioned trying to avoid a PG is challenging, especially when starting out. 

@Adolphus Fletcher For multifamily investing, most real estate investors typically use an LLC for several reasons:Liability Protection: LLCs protect your personal assets from lawsuits or debts associated with the property.Pass-Through Taxation: Income and losses from an LLC pass through to your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation seen in C-Corps.Flexibility: LLCs allow for flexible management structures and are easier to maintain than corporations.Anonymity: In some states, LLCs can offer a degree of anonymity if you use a registered agent and form the LLC in a state that doesn’t require public disclosure of members, such as Delaware or Wyoming.S-Corps are should be avoided for real estate investing because of various reasons.

My list includes - last 2 years employment history and current employment [2 paystubs], criminal checks, eviction checks, No Pets, No smoking, tenant pays utilities, maintains landscape, no subleasing, bring own washer & dryer, 1 month security deposit and transfer of utilities before moving in, rental insurance, all occupants will be on lease, notice period of 2 months for termination, tenant references, No cosigners, no painting walls, late fee notice, any hoa fines should be paid by tenant, inspection of property at 3, 9 and 12 months.Please let me know if I am missing anything.3.

@Jason Malabute is correct here.

My gut tells me that Texas, particularly Austin and Houston, could be where the next wave of growth and expansion occurs, mainly driven by strong business and job creation trends.Here’s what I’m looking for in my US investments:Free-standing houses with a good land component, at least 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and in well-maintained condition.Budget : Will have to keep a factor of safety for the current exchange rates of AUD.USD = 0.68 so will cap our budget at 250K- 300K.Yielding over 6%, with a slight cash flow positive outcome, while also offering medium-term capital appreciation potential.Holding for at least 5 years or more, with a view towards steady growth.The long-term goal is financial independence, reducing reliance on salary-based income, and building assets during this accumulation phase.Debt reduction is on the horizon—looking to consolidate and start winding down debt within the next 7 years.If anyone has experience investing in the Texas real estate market or any tips on navigating US property investments, feel free to share your thoughts!

This sets you up for succession planning as well, if you ever wanted to sell the gas station operations but maintain the real estate for the passive income that sets you up to do so easily.

Correct me if I'm wrong but since the Roth IRA has no tax liability, the depreciation deduction is basically lost.

I would recommend doing a "reduced" (~60%-70%) leverage refinance which would help drive your rate down as much as possible and hopefully still maintain the cash flow that you would like to have, especially since they are free and clear.If you were to go the portfolio route, I would confirm with the lender you use what their 'occupancy requirement' is.

This proactive approach has made a significant difference in maintaining positive cash flow and ensuring long-term success in my investments.Key Lesson #5: Build a Strong Network Finally, I wish I had focused on building a network of real estate professionals earlier in my journey.

I do not, but you are correct, there are a bunch out there - mostly China based.