While an LLC can offer liability protection and tax benefits, it’s not essential for a single property—personal liability insurance and an umbrella policy may suffice for now.

I have a friend that owns over 60 rentals in his personal name and he's never been sued.

I am personally working with about 15.

I have purchased many homes in the past as personal residences and always with the help of an agent.  

I do not know how they are handling new customers verse the Midland existing customers.Regarding the customer service it seems the people I dealt with are still employed and only my "personal rep" as it were, was promoted and another took her place.

If @Drew Sygit doesn't have a local person for you, I have CFO clients in KC, MO that have used this firm: https://propertyvaluationservices.net/services/protest-taxes...

All 17 or however many sellers want to sell, and we've agreed on terms for seller financing, but the problem is no one cannot get in touch with the last reminding person.

@Robert B Azimi If I'm in your shoes I'm meeting with the tenant in person to figure out what's going on.

That's why appraisers do the comparative approach and then secondarily the cost approach.So far, 100% of the time you don't get dollar for dollar back from what I've seen.

Definitely looking into meetings and going to meet them in person.