Some are self-managed, some are not.

I found my self with a million dollar startup with no money and realized my success was contingent on companies hiring me or people investing in me.

Companies self-certify on a one page form to INC.I wouldn't describe any of this as "conservative."

If you want to invest in a self storage syndication, I recommend you consider Paul Moore with Wellings Capital.

In my experience, you are thinking through this correctly.I've heard lawyers say, if the loan is in your name (which it has to be for conventional) and the deed is in the LLC, you aren't treating the business as an independent entity and in a severe lawsuit, the corporate veil is pierced and the LLC can be thrown out.I agree that one of the best defenses is to run your properties well. 

I will be self-managing remotely (from NJ).

However you do have a new government that seems committed to cutting costs, cutting defense spending, and getting us out of wartime efforts. 

Also Solo 401k could be a better option for you if you're self employed with no FT W2 employees.   

Self managing multiple rbr properties can be very challenging unless you're @Jeff White!

It's about self-management, however it's so much more than that.