Very simplified version but I hope it paints a picture. 

James,The benefit is keeping it off of your personal DTI, funneling into an entity, and simplifying the process as a whole. 

Does having an LLC simplify any of that vs doing it as part of my personal return?

But right now, there's not much for the CPA to simplify. 

If the software is not simplifying your life or making you more accurate, you shouldn't use it.

I'm already migrating away from Quickbooks next year, so I will no longer be an Intuit customer for any of their products.There are several other options -YNAB, Empower/Personal Capital, Quicken Simplifi, Monarch Money, etc.

I switched to Baselane for banking and bookkeeping and it has vastly simplified my bookkeeping and prep for tax time.

Let's break down the pros and cons of each approach:Forming an LLC in the State Where the Property is Located:Pros:Compliance with Local Laws: Establishing an LLC in the state where the property is situated ensures compliance with local regulations and laws specific to that jurisdiction.Legal Clarity: It provides clear legal jurisdiction and may simplify any legal proceedings related to the property in that state.Perception: Operating with a local LLC may give tenants and local authorities confidence in your commitment to the community.Cons:Additional Costs: Setting up and maintaining an LLC in another state means incurring additional registration fees, taxes, and possibly hiring local legal counsel.Administrative Burden: Managing multiple LLCs across different states adds complexity to your administrative workload, including extra paperwork and compliance requirements.Tax Implications: You may face tax obligations in both the state where the property is located and your home state, potentially leading to double taxation or complexities in tax filings.Managing Through Home State LLC:Pros:Simplified Management: Handling all properties under a single LLC streamlines administrative tasks, reducing paperwork and simplifying tax filings.Cost Savings: Avoiding the need to establish multiple LLCs in different states saves on registration fees, legal expenses, and ongoing maintenance costs.Consistency: Uniformity in management practices and legal structures may contribute to efficiency and ease of operation across your real estate portfolio.Cons:Legal Exposure: Operating out-of-state properties under a home state LLC may expose your personal assets to the laws and liabilities of the other state, potentially diminishing the liability protection the LLC offers.Compliance Challenges: You'll need to ensure your home state LLC meets the legal requirements for conducting business in other states, which could involve additional filings and fees.Perception and Credibility: Some tenants or local stakeholders may prefer dealing with a landlord who has a local presence, which could impact your reputation or relationships in the community.Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific circumstances, risk tolerance, and long-term goals.

Plus, you'll have access to our team whenever you need support.Market Focus: With a strong focus on booming regions like Florida and Ohio, we follow market trends and position your investment for consistent growth.Ready to simplify your real estate investing journey with partners who care?

The numbers tend to work out more favorably there, which can simplify hitting your investment targets.On the other hand, if you're leaning more towards appreciation and forced equity, Portland could be beneficial, especially with strategies like house hacking.