However, if I earn too much “earned income,” I risk losing these essential benefits.That’s why I’m exploring real estate and the stock market, as these generate “unearned income” and allow me to maintain my benefits while building financial security.

We are hoping to avoid doing any sort of partnership and maintain a single member LLC, but searching online hasn't been fruitful.

Like Mija noted, they cost real money and time to maintain, and I simply was not deriving enough value from either.I had no intention of GC-ing jobs for clients, which is about all it would have allowed me to do that I can't do already.  

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

For example if you wanted to gift $100k to your child to purchase a business, it may be best to make your child manager, with say a 20% interest, while you and or your spouse maintain a 80% interest.  100% of any net income can still be received by your child as manger, or even for just his 20% interest, as profit allocation  need not align with ownership percentage in an LLC.

Unless you are getting a bank loan and are willing to accept higher interest rates and balloon payoffs, buying within an LLC is not a clear-cut decision.An LLC can be created very quickly and should costs under $1K, but you need to know there will be costs and time to maintain that LLC every year.  

If your place is very well maintained you may be able to achieve higher than average returns.

A few things to keep in mind:Section 8 requires the property to pass an inspection based on HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (basically making sure it’s safe and well-maintained).The rent you charge has to align with Fair Market Rents (FMRs) in your area, so it’s good to check what similar properties are renting for.You’ll still be responsible for maintaining the property, but the upside is that a chunk of the rent is guaranteed by the government, which can provide steady income.Check with the local housing authority about any specifics for your area—every jurisdiction does things a little differently.This could be a great niche if you can find a good deal on the land and make sure your expenses (like maintenance, insurance, and occasional vacancies) are covered by the rental income.

This reduces vacancy risk and helps maintain cash flow while you learn the ropes of being a landlord.