I'm Diane :) By day I'm an executive assistant to c-suite execs, by night I run my own virtual assistance business, and 24/7 I think about investing in multifamily homes.

From what you’ve described, it sounds like you’re more focused on long-term appreciation and future benefits rather than immediate cash flow.

Most seem to like there to be a business reason for the state you use to create the LLC, either the property is there or you live there. 

Which could be an open space Medical Equipment rental business, down to a Dentist's office with multiple room utility hookups.You're going have to vet this to a lower level of discussion anyways. 

Also, it can avoid filing an amendment.Another great point on eligibility- SEP IRAs require net self-employment income from activities like 1099 contract work, real estate sales, wholesaling, or other self-employment business income.Passive income as you have highlighted, does not qualify. 

Your realtor should be the backbone of your business and be able to help with sending you personalized deal flow, building the rest of your real estate team (PMs, GCs, lenders, etc), showing you the good/bad neighborhoods, developing scope of work and estimating renovations, and so much more!

Partnering with others can help you scale your business and access greater resources.

The other way I fund deals with none of my own money is using a private lender that I have years of experience and relationship with and/or using HELOC and other business lines of credit.

Phoenix boasts a lively market with plenty of opportunities for both novice and experienced investors to thrive in the fix-and-flip business.

Congrats on getting started with the STR business.