Most states have relatively low fees.

Consider if it will truly benefit your tax position, liability protection, or asset management, or if it will just add unnecessary paperwork.If you’re in a state like California, keep in mind that you’ll have to pay $800 annually to the Franchise Tax Board, file a periodic Statement of Information (SOI), and submit a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report.It’s a good idea to consult a real estate attorney to ensure you’re making the best decision for your specific needs.

I've done a lot of residential real estate deals including dozens of passive investments and have syndicated four apartment complexes.REITS - These are more akin to stocks than real estate investing and do not come with the tax benefits.  

The city still has relatively affordable entry points, with most of the deals I'm doing falling in the $80k-$90k range and bringing in $1,200-$1,300 per month in rent.

Always happy to help with any questions tax related.

I work for General Dynamics Electric Boat which has decades long contracts with the US government and the turnover rate is relatively high in the company so my thoughts are if I could choose a place that is within commute distance there and within the price range of the average employee that maybe that could be a great idea but I want to know if people think that is too much of an assumption and risk to make?

I believe you can benefit from his course(s).  

Renovating your personal home has several advantages that can be difficult to quantify since you experience the most benefit directly.

Fair return is calculated to determine if the owneris maintaining the net operating income produced by theproperty in a base year, subject to CPI-related adjustments.https://www.readkong.com/page/guide-to-oakland-rental-housin...2021 - GUIDE TO OAKLAND RENTALHOUSING LAW

Exclusions.Certain work, such as time spent as an investor reviewing financial statements or participating in management decisions without active involvement, may not count towards the 750-hour requirement.As always, talk to your CPA to make sure that you meet the criteria above.If you do, there are many helpful benefits to you.