However, I have a trustworthy and reputable private lender that is willing to fund my first few deals.

It would also be wise to have a reputable roofing contractor who has been in business for several years walk the roof and give you an estimate.

Does anyone have a reputable roofing contractor to recommend in Tampa?

They are so tunnel visioned into getting every penny for that particular deal that they loose focus on the fact that if you blow a deal up for $500 or $1,000 a couple times you now have a reputation.With this reputation you have lost all chances of having that super deal that does not come around very often come across your desk.

Their reputation is on the line with your local group.   

He’s obviously not motivated by friendship, loyalty, reputation, fairness, morals or ethics.  

The reputation for Chicago continues to hold true.

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.

I have been told by one very reputable RIA and a separate 1031 company that after I have been in the REIT for at least 1 year that I can pull up to my original basis out of the REIT without triggering any capital gains tax. 

We are actually having one our premier events in October called Junkers to Jewels, a 3 day in person classrom and bus tour to learn about flipping, rehabbing, estimating etc on actual deals with local investors.