Should we start LLC? 

Courses and webinars are great if you're getting basic information to help start you off, but you'll never truly retain the information if you don't apply it.

The current tenant was already in place when I purchased the building, and their lease is set to expire in a few months.

I paid the first $5K but started having second thoughts because of high vacancy rates in the area.

The committees have never said they'll require a specific form of evidence to show that you've rented the place for at least a couple of nights.

Have to start from scratch on reviews/super host status. 

wouldn't bring this one to a partner or anything just satisfying my own desire to get a foothold in a place i like to be.  

They are even working on getting me the evicted tenant's security deposit, the missing JANUARY rent since the place is still empty, and covering the cost of my own manager re-listing the property.

It's no guarantee but it's a good place to start.

Paulette, it is good to call out these bad contractors and unfortunately you are caught in a bad situation on what to do, start by a small threat that you will contact the BBB and report a claim if he does not show some progress, or if you know an attorney, maybe a simple letter from one may get him worried and he may start showing up.