Dwelling coverage, "landlord insurance," with at least $500k liability per house is recommended for small homes and portfolios, but once you get a larger portfolio an umbrella definitely doesn't hurt.I'm biased, but an independent agency will typically give you much better options than a captive agency, simply because of the fact that they can shop around and have a broader knowledge of each carrier's pros and cons.Most of the time you should be able to get bound the same day as you request a quote.

Get an LLC AND business License and bank account and learn to work with an accountant (my bias is justified).4.

I may be biased but I agree with the realtor/lender.

We have been friends for many years and I am concerned that my personal bias may interfere with the negotiation process.

Also, I'm biased as an 18 yr Austin resident and 13 yr local Realtor.

But I'm biased in that I use a PM for my out-of-state properties. 

Granted everyone is biased towards themselves.

I busted my balls to get into the #1 program in the country so I am biased. 

Biased opinion, but... the money you will pay your CPA you will receive back many times over when you file your taxes and, more importantly, when you get the strategic advice that will help you plan ahead and make wise financial decisions.

I recently published a BiggerPockets  book about self storage, so I am biased.