@Karen P.Hi KarenYou did a really smart thing by choosing that type of asset as your first.  

When choosing the home, be sure it is a property that will produce what you want financially when you do convert to a rental.

There are many avenues and knowing your strengths/weaknesses and resources will assist you in choosing what route you'd like to pursue.

But I do know that if I do choose to go out of state, I better known darn well why I'm not investing in Tacoma.Another piece of this... is that all the homes I"m finding locally that fit the numbers to produce cashflow (and there aren't many really, inventory is somewhat low), all need some work, or some substantial work.

More tenants to deal with, more items to break/repair in the quad then the duplex.So for me to choose the quad I would desire it to have close to twice the benefit of the duplex (i.e. twice as much cash flow and/or twice as much equity gain). 

I have a car for commutes which I plan to use.LemontLa GrangeHinsdaleBolingbrookI am choosing a spot approximately less than halfway between Chicago city and Lemont.

Some choose to self manage or use me as a go between, but I make it clear what I am willing to do or not do. 

But, you Can choose not to go through the inspection/approval process.

Do lots of reading and educate yourself, and then choose the best strategy or niche for investing that will fit your needs.  

I was under the impression that you pay less taxes with an LLC because you would choose corporate taxation.