They're going to want to see that you know what you're doing and can pull it off.There are plenty of reputable HMLs here on BP.

You still have several options, depending on if you want to invest directly in individual properties or be a bit more removed:Full-service turnkey investment: Should be mostly passive after you do your due diligence and pick a provider, but don't skimp on your homeworkYou choose which props to purchase, but have no control over tenanting choices, some say in large maintenance expensesAvg cost for solid B/B+ prop in Birmingham (and some other markets but this is the one I have data for, since it's my market) is about $100k per door; you'll pay market price for a tenant-ready, fully rehabbed propertyPartnering with someone who does the on-the-ground stuff while you provide capitalCan be passive if your partner really knows their stuff, but more likely you'd be fairly involved with the choices madeMore control since you call the shots with your partnerYou can pick which markets and price points you're interested inPotential for higher returns (ie buying distressed and then forcing equity through renovation) if your partner is experienced and can execute consistentlyInvesting in a syndicateMany investors pool funds to invest in much bigger projects like commercial space or large MFRs, or in larger portfoliosVery passive, investors are not responsible for project vetting or management, but you have no controlMay have higher bar for entry, some syndicates require large investments and you'll need to have liquid cash on handBuying shares in a REITLike an ETF but comprised of real estate investmentsVery passive, but no control over which assets are held in the fundHighly liquid, easy to buy and trade, lower bar for entryEverything is a trade-off between passivity and control, time and money.

Just choose your words carefully when you approach the lender .

I choose both (or an opportunity to achieve both) or I don't play.

Far better is to choose a different tax-free option: not selling.

You've got to have plenty of deals in the pipe line to offset those taxes and cover reno costs.Some folks in your situation choose to continue their path of buy and hold investing. 

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bpThe second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.There are many agents out there, but it’s important to choose the right one.https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52724-im-new-to-investing-how-do-i-find-an-investor-friendly-agentI love answering questions if you have any!

Also, can you include a link to a reputable online source for this $100k/$150k idea?

Depending on the strength of the borrower, this tactic either results in a lower rate, or a bad reputation.

Proc. 2002-69 and 2002 C.B. 831, a husband and wife who are the sole owners of an LLC and reside in a community property state can choose whether they are treated as a partnership or disregarded entity.You have to understand that tax and legal matters are different. 1) for tax, you will be reporting on your personal return, Schedule E.2) for legal purpose, LLC is a separate entity, and it has to be treated separately from your personal finance.