That said, I create LLC's in a couple of minutes online for $100 (did one today, actually!)

I have not seen an online tool that is accurate across the board.

I absorb as much REI content that I can find online and want to expand my horizons with others' experiences. 

@Gerald MaczugaYou should contact a tax specialist, not an online forum.

Step 2, open a bank account (you'll need an EIN, which you can get online from the IRS at this link https://sa.www4.irs.gov/modiein/individual/index.jsp.)Step 3, sign a deed of your property into the LLC. 

Just stick to the basics and don't sucked into all the online fitness crap you see every day.   

There are quite a few Communities who deal with passive investors - most are not local, most are online and some have meetups as well. 

However, I would definitely want to see the loan handled by a "local" lender - not one of those online VA loan companies.

I would suggest to listen to the BP podcasts and read as much as possible online and here in the forum. 

You can invest excess cash flow and get 5% return (online savings, CDs, treasuries) (or simply pay down principal).