I own it and accept responsibility for it. 

That means the person or charity gets 25% more than if you sold and gave them the proceeds.

Also looking to hear from anybody who has thoughts on the rental market in close proximity to major universities - I recognize the challenge of college students and the sometimes problematic care and need for repairs (that is why I am hoping to target the graduate/PhD/Med student population who might be less-centered on partying and more centered on academics and being responsible...pipe dream?

When I read things of this nature, what comes to mind is, did the person writing this actually do that themselves.

I would certainly rather have the tenant pay $3,500 and personally pay an extra $100-$500 for a whole new unit. 

Personally, I had one experience where my Lender wanted the LLC to be within the state where the property was being purchased.

Converting your single-family home into a rental property involves several considerations to protect yourself and ensure smooth operations: Establish an LLC:Liability Protection: Holding the rental property in an LLC can protect your personal assets from potential lawsuits related to the property.Tax Benefits: An LLC can offer tax advantages, such as pass-through taxation, where rental income is taxed at your individual income tax rate.Insurance:Landlord Insurance: Ensures coverage for property damage, liability claims, and loss of rental income.Umbrella Policy: Provides additional liability coverage beyond your landlord insurance, offering extra protection.Deductions:Mortgage Interest and Property Taxes: Continue to deduct these expenses.Depreciation: Depreciate the cost of the property over 27.5 years, excluding the land value.Maintenance and Repairs: Deduct costs related to maintaining the property.Property Management Fees: Deduct fees paid to the property manager.Filing Taxes:Schedule E: Report rental income and expenses on Schedule E of your tax return.Separate Accounts: Maintain separate bank accounts for rental income and expenses to simplify bookkeeping.Lease Agreement:Solid Lease Terms: Ensure your lease agreement is thorough, covering rent amount, due date, late fees, maintenance responsibilities, and eviction terms.Legal Review: Have the lease agreement reviewed by a real estate attorney to ensure compliance with local laws.Tenant Screening:Background Checks: Perform credit, criminal, and eviction history checks on prospective tenants.References: Contact previous landlords and employers for references.Property Management:Regular Inspections: Schedule regular property inspections to ensure it's being maintained properly.Maintenance Fund: Set aside a reserve fund for unexpected repairs and maintenance.Moving Out of State:Communication: Maintain open communication with your property manager.

., but the average person would just do it on their own. 

You will get a better response that way. 

But I don’t think you made your thinking visible to OP that buying in personal name to begin with is the basis for your comment.