If you're going to purchase using an LLC, trust, etc the Seller would be smart to require a personal guarantee from you and at the very least run your credit report.

Secondly, if it is still a smart move transfer them into separate LLCs, should I dissolve the original LLC that held the properties to make sure there is no connection between them?

Lastly it is great for an agent who can use technology to support their clients, such as recordings of property visits.    

Getting yourself into a turnkey, or close to, property that is your investment in definitely a smart way to ease into this game.

Does this seem like a smart way to get started to you guys? 

Although you're being smart and buying based on actuals, some people will buy based on how they project the property to perform. 

There are so many options out there so many paths, and really although things get in ones way, one manages their own risk, and if they're smart about it, don't just jump in blind, then that risk can be greatly minimized.Currently I'm reading a book called Incorporate Yourself to get familiar with the basic business aspects, and different options out there for my property business, or businesses that I will start.

With a local shop, my main concern would be if they are up with current technology to facilitate doing it online or if they need a lot of paperwork signed in person, etc.

Only if you are smart in setting up your rules.... 

@Vladimir Gostrer as others have said, you can get a mortgage for a primary residence with as little as 3.5% to 5% down (and also get the generally better rate and terms that come with a primary residence mortgage)--this is why your plan of buying a new primary residence is such a smart plan.