Less complicated, cheaper, easier.An LLC is useful for two things: anonymity and legal protection.

DaveI do not have any instruction to offer.

Buyers expect Sellers to cower in the corner at their amazing low offers as if they are doing the seller a favor.  

Places in the Midwest like Cleveland, Indianapolis, and Kansas City are good for this too, and in the Southeast, cities like Charlotte, Atlanta, and Raleigh-Durham offer cheap buys and lots of renters.

Should we offer preference and less equity?

You can start real estate investing, reading resources, familiarizing yourself with the Albany, GA market, setting short-term and long-term goals, preparing financially, building a team, conducting property searches, conducting due diligence, making an offer, managing property, and joining local groups.

Hey Alex, I thought I might offer my 2 cents from another agent's perspective.

I'm open to any advice that anyone here has to offer. have a great weekend everyone

Investing with foreknowledge that property values are falling seems like a timing problem or at least a situation where my offer would be reduced to reflect this coming change.As to how much to put in as a down payment that depends more on your numbers, your risk tolerance, ability to get financing, cost of financing, etc. 

I've been interested in REI for a year or so, and am only just now finding out about the BP community and all of the resources it has to offer new investors.