You'll need to have a registered agent in that state, but there are loads of companies that offer that service for a very low cost. 

I think @Chris Seveney made a good point.One reason is just like what Chris mentioned: Load Modification Increased.  

Do you have the credit score and credit capacity to qualify for conventional financing?

Given your background in bookkeeping and real estate, you likely have a good sense of your capacity and risk tolerance, but consulting a legal professional might still be a good idea.

We removed 4 walks (including load baring), installed 2 walls, added half bath, replaced all plumbing and electrical, added new eye brow porch, painted full exterior (changed color), replaced all flooring, new bathroom and kitchen layout with everything replaced (shower, cabinets/vanity, counter, appliances, etc), stocked with new furniture, added mini split, removed gas/wood fireplace and added a new electrical fireplace, and placed initial STR tenant in 2 months and 1 week.  

I never had the choice to join the military or the police/fire dept. in a First Responder capacity. 

It requires more work, so you need to determine your capacity in the end. 

Taking an asset to liquidate is a significant hassle, loaded with additional expenses, time oh-so-mush time, and variables such as potential market movements, changes to condition etc. all these come together to very possibly devouring what your equity positions may be in full or more, leaving no real equity of securitization itself. 

You could, for instance, buy a rental property and employ property management firm to take care of it, but you can't work for your company in any capacity and get paid for it.

I’ve been able to mostly retire from the W-2, I’m still on the payroll there in a limited part time capacity.