Because you are not changing the tax return that reports the activity of the property.But... the IRS holds the position that Husband/wife LLCs can only be disregarded in community property states. 

They have had nothing but positive things to say. 

Luckily, my wife and would be in a position to buy their house from them at fair market value, if that is the best option? 

Although I’m guessing most people in this position would use Wordpress or something more customizable.

If one tenant moves out, the property remains cash-flow positive.

Some lenders offer creative solutions, like a cross-collateralized loan, where they use your existing equity as security without refinancing the duplex.Another idea is partnering with private lenders or exploring a second-position mortgage, depending on your lender's terms.

that we’ve learned in our 24 years, managing almost 700 doors across the Metro Detroit area, including almost 100 S8 leases:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+ (roughly 5% probability of default), zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680 (around 10% probability of default), some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

People in the group are great, positive, and supporting. 

Here’s my honest advise; consider studying for and obtaining your real estate sales license, and obtain a part time position with a real estate agency that will provide training, guidance, and oversight.  

Buy quality properties in strong submarkets, finance with low leverage, bulk up on cash reserves, diversify geographically, and you'll be positioned to survive whatever the economy throws at you.