These experiential retailers not only fill large vacant spaces but also reinvent malls as entertainment destinations that can’t be matched online, paving the way for a reimagined retail experience.

That'd be fun! 

Once you start co-mingling the LLC's business with anything else you give an easy and clear reason for anyone suing you to claim the LLC isn't acting like a separate entity and "pierce the corporate veil" meaning that they could use that as a way to come after your personal assets as well.

Remedy after termination.If the rental agreement is terminated, the landlord may have a claim for possession and for rent and a separate claim for actual damages for breach of the rental agreement, reasonable attorney fees as provided in § 55.1-1245, and the cost of service of any notice under § 55.1-1245 or 55.1-1415 or process by a sheriff or private process server, which cost shall not exceed the amount authorized by § 55.1-1247, and such claims may be enforced, without limitation, by initiating an action for unlawful entry or detainer.

Any help here would be appreciated.

I asked the landlord if it would be OK and he said it was fine.

I had hired an out-of-state investment consultant and project manager who both turned out to be a complete disaster.

It sounds like you have a great plan for entering the real estate market, and a duplex or small multifamily could be a great way to house hack, saving money while building  equity. 

It's the easiest way to try being a landlord without dealing with tricky renovation projects.

In conclusion, I've done some research but definitely open to any opinions and suggestions from people with more experience.