There's a very good chance the issue(s) you face have already been discussed and answered.Ask questions in the appropriate forum.

This means that you will probably need to pay registration and filing fees in at least 2 states if you don’t buy CA property as a CA resident.Any lawsuits should be limited to the assets of the LLC and not your personal assets (assuming you run the LLC appropriately and the corporate veil is not pierced, some debate as to SMLLC).

You are trying to compare oranges and potatoes, this is not appropriate here.

so I have to figure out ways to begin investing with OPM (other people's money), which I've been trying to learn a lot about.I guess a concrete goal would be appropriate.  

Entities that are not "disregarded" need their own QBO to ensure their balance sheets remain 100% accurate.We do run into an issue every now and then with some transactions that don't allow us to designate the customer/property but we've found ways to get around this and still have the transaction reflect the appropriate customer/property.This allows us to pull all the financial reports our Clients and their tax pros need to see.I'm in no way saying our way is the end-all-be-all but it works for us and our Clients' tax filers/advisors.There's a FB group called, "Bookkeepers for Real Estate Investors".

While basis adjustment may seem rather self-evident, appropriately navigating the particular tax nuances often requires a seasoned practitioner.

First correction: Using the word "Should follow" is not appropriated, the word "May follow if  they want" is more appropriated and convenient. 

You can also check meetup.com or search Facebook for real estate investment groups, clubs, or meetings in your area.Ask questions in the appropriate forum.

I'm definitely thinking in terms of forced equity then a refi when appropriate.

Now you're operating a triplex, essentially, with 2 income-bearing units, even though the street might be zoned for SFH only, and it's totally legal (assuming appropriate setback etc etc).