Or can you still run everything through your personal return (just want to make sure that I can deduct things such as HOA fees which I can do if it is a rental).2) If I do decide to run everything thru my personal tax return (save on LLC fees), should I at the least set up a separate bank account to track costs separately?

Quote from @Ashish Acharya: @Niklas Zhu If you tear down your STR in 2025 and convert it to personal use, depreciation recapture does not occur at the time of conversion.

I have a friend that owns over 60 rentals in his personal name and he's never been sued.

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

I'm not super educated on Columbus, so I would let a Columbus agent tell you about their market and I will tell you about this one, and you can make your choice, shooting a message now!

Call 3 references:  Verify that they work there, or that it is an actual person by asking where they work first, and don't mention who you are until after.  

I think I can open another personal checking account at the bank I already have and it'll be under my name but i'm trying to buy out of state rentals with an LLC I own.

People like to rent from a person not a 'brand', it's more personal.

There’s no single right answer to every situation, but the more you educate yourself and build your network, the more confident you'll become.Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask questions here, no matter how small they seem.

Would a HELOC or home equity loan on my personal home be a good idea to fund this?