Everything from:(1) contract a property manager, (2) analyze lenders apples-to-apples, (3) engage your contractor (and I've even included a document for your contractor to use to provide you itemized bids on work - no more guessing what you are paying for), (4) a lease agreement, (5) a "checklist" of business incorporation items to launch your real estate LLC and (7) even a BRRRR deal analysis spreadsheet so you can know right away if you'll be making a great deal.These legal docs are enforceable in all States.

Generally speaking, at least in my state, it is a good idea to have both liability insurance (of varying degrees) and a good incorporation.

You aren't supposed to mix, or co-mingle, personal and "incorporated" business finances.When you have some sort of legal entity such as a LLC or C-Corp, since they are their own legal entities the finances are separated to maintain their corporate veil so the limited liability protection is maintained. 

@Ender AslangecinerIf your property is in Georgia you are paying georgia taxes but speak to your cpa and attorneyIn most instances I have been advised to incorporate in state I reside and file foreign entity where I own properties

Comfortable chairs, the more comfortable the better.

There is plenty advice here, but you need a plan of action that will incorporate the ideas. 

Yes you would have to have either the designation in the Articles of Incorporation that any one partner can enter in to legally binding contracts on behalf of the LLC OR  that "Named Partner" can enter into legally binding contracts for the LLC. 

Also interesting they operating in CA but incorporated in DE - likely by design to avoid any CA laws and court system. 

Germain see answers below: Yes, you can incorporate LLC in NC even if you own rentals in other States.

If the consultant isn't building your articles of incorporation and your operating agreement, then that's not worth it.