Their reputation is on the line with your local group.   

Let's break down the pros and cons of each approach:Forming an LLC in the State Where the Property is Located:Pros:Compliance with Local Laws: Establishing an LLC in the state where the property is situated ensures compliance with local regulations and laws specific to that jurisdiction.Legal Clarity: It provides clear legal jurisdiction and may simplify any legal proceedings related to the property in that state.Perception: Operating with a local LLC may give tenants and local authorities confidence in your commitment to the community.Cons:Additional Costs: Setting up and maintaining an LLC in another state means incurring additional registration fees, taxes, and possibly hiring local legal counsel.Administrative Burden: Managing multiple LLCs across different states adds complexity to your administrative workload, including extra paperwork and compliance requirements.Tax Implications: You may face tax obligations in both the state where the property is located and your home state, potentially leading to double taxation or complexities in tax filings.Managing Through Home State LLC:Pros:Simplified Management: Handling all properties under a single LLC streamlines administrative tasks, reducing paperwork and simplifying tax filings.Cost Savings: Avoiding the need to establish multiple LLCs in different states saves on registration fees, legal expenses, and ongoing maintenance costs.Consistency: Uniformity in management practices and legal structures may contribute to efficiency and ease of operation across your real estate portfolio.Cons:Legal Exposure: Operating out-of-state properties under a home state LLC may expose your personal assets to the laws and liabilities of the other state, potentially diminishing the liability protection the LLC offers.Compliance Challenges: You'll need to ensure your home state LLC meets the legal requirements for conducting business in other states, which could involve additional filings and fees.Perception and Credibility: Some tenants or local stakeholders may prefer dealing with a landlord who has a local presence, which could impact your reputation or relationships in the community.Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific circumstances, risk tolerance, and long-term goals.

The reputation for Chicago continues to hold true.

I have been told by one very reputable RIA and a separate 1031 company that after I have been in the REIT for at least 1 year that I can pull up to my original basis out of the REIT without triggering any capital gains tax. 

But that is because we are reputable.  

Work with lenders that are reputable though.

I view the bird dog made a mistake placing such trust in a seller with no reputation.  

Just got done reading the entire thread, so what is the conclusion who are the reputable lenders with a closing track history that can be verified that lend 100% without charging an arm and a leg to good qualifiers with good credit and income?

Post Road has a particularly bad reputation. 

I pay my plumber $100 to replace a toilet.