We would like to put each of these properties into individual "disregarded LLC's" for the liability protection but we don't want to trigger a capital gains tax situation.  

My name is DJ and completely new to the world of real estate investing, but extremely excited to dive right in.

I have been interested in real estate for a few years now and decided to finally pull the trigger.

That would be extremely unusual. 

Option 1:Pros:Simplicity: You avoid the potential complications of alerting the lender.Maintains Low-Interest Rate: Since your loan is at 3%, you continue benefiting from this favorable rate.Avoids Immediate Full Payment: You won’t be forced to come up with $45k immediately.Cons:Risk of Detection: If the lender identifies the payments coming from an LLC, they might call the loan due.Potential Consequences: If the lender enforces the due on sale clause, you might be forced to pay the remaining loan balance quickly.Option 2:Pros:Transparency: Being upfront might build trust with the lender.Possible Flexibility: Given your solid payment history, the lender might agree to the arrangement.Legal Compliance: You avoid any potential issues with violating the terms of your mortgage agreement.Cons:Risk of Loan Acceleration: The lender could still decide to call the loan due, forcing you to pay the remaining balance.Potential for Higher Payments: If forced to refinance, you might end up with a higher interest rate.Given the pros and cons of each option, but a cautious approach might be best:Consult a Real Estate Attorney: This can give you a clear understanding of your legal standing and potential risks.Evaluate the Importance of the 3% Rate: Weigh the benefits of keeping your low-interest rate against the risks of potentially having to pay off the loan early.Consider a Gradual Transition: This method allows you to continue benefiting from the low-interest rate while reducing the risk of triggering the due on sale clause.

Things to consider are pretty simple, if you can find a property jump on it, there is extremely little inventory and it is highly competitive with the majority homes on the market selling over ask in very few DOM.

(***Note: Emerald is EXTREMELY hard drying paint.

Will there be extremely good appreciation in the next few years do you think?

While certainly not as extreme as the examples in the article you shared, I've seen condo owners in many states hit with special assessments. 

We're hoping to bridge a large knowledge gap through various resources and I'm hoping this forum will share it's wealth of knowledge.Lastly, as with any post.. if anyone has any great Attorney or Realtor or any other party that should be involved a referral would be extremely helpful and greatly appreciated.Thanks in advance for you time.