I can add about $1000 a month to my savings and whatever bonuses I receive to it as well. 

So you takes your chances and pays your money at some point.I was viewing the built in equity as the "bonus" of financing it myself through the bank rather than the builder doing it.

You'll get the most exposure using an agent.

Also define how much equity exposure you want within each LLC.

In your case looking to larger assets where you can effeciently cost segregate to gather bonus depreciation would be a smart move.Appreciation - Where in the country is the asset class you like growing or going to be growingAmortization of the loan - What sector or even region if you look locally for funding, is going to offer the most favorable lending so that less goes to interest expense and more to pay down of principle.Have fun with a spread sheet comparing these 4 returns from your investment with the type and location of assets you find attractive. 

Book losses through bonus depreciation.4.

I've been seeing constant ads for Baselane, which I'm guessing is newer by the bonus incentives being offered and the amount of advertising.

If you're an LP that meets the requirements for REPS, but you're not materially participating, losses generated from bonus depreciation is unlikely to help you offset non-passive income. 

Market exposure- what is the existing density of the rental units, what is the potential existing market, what competition is coming online?

Through depreciation, particularly accelerated depreciation and bonus depreciation, you can typically offset all rental income such that there is no taxable income from your rental .