I visited over 10 years ago.

Putting a property in an LLC actually violates the due on sale clause also  I know it can, what I am seeing is often times people are asking on doing such and being told go ahead. 

If I visited only these house I can still find good deal.

The nearly 70 year population decline is officially reversing now as well.Exciting times ahead for the city!

You visit the lender to their office, talk to them directly and input the number, don't ask via email.

I grew up in Columbus, however I have not lived there in years but I visit often.

(You have other options, like bringing an inspector to your walkthrough and getting it done ahead of time.)

I'd go ahead and point it out and ask for a credit and see what they say (most likely "No" but you never know if you don't ask).

Many investors will tell you that they started where they live since they know the area and can physically visit the property if something goes wrong.- You can find your local real estate investing meetups.

If your looking to learn the trade and want to find a mentor to guide you, the I would suggest visiting one of the local REI clubs in Spokane or Couer D'Alene.