As to the issue of captive insurance subs, I worked in the accounting department of a small insurance carrier, set up primarily as a tax shelter.

Hi everyone,I have been on the forums for awhile doing research and I feel that it is time to get my first investment property.I am targeting a duplex in the East Bay and my agent/loan officer has come up with some creative financing ideas that make me a little nervous, but may have merit.

Particularly be sure to include your goals for real estate investing so that folks can help you. 2) Follow your favorite forum topics and set up keyword alerts!

I ultimately settled on Columbus, OH as my target market because there was positive cashflow from day one, cheaper entry points and landlord friendly laws that won't handcuff both hands and 9 toes behind your back. 

I would suggest if you have put your mind to it, enhance your skill set and learn the rules of the road and try small.

You'll want to have the right property management company set up.

Have set criteria for Acceptable, w/ conditions and Nope - and stick to them. 

@Noah Bussanich Send me a note if you want a second set of set of eyes or another perspective, or post your deal notes here so that you can get public feedback in the forum :)

Other beneficial tax strategies would be a cost segregation study and bonus depreciation which would allow you to accelerate your depreciation and not have it set at 27.5 years. 

Good Morning all,     I am just starting out in Real estate investing, and am wondering whether or not to set up an LLC.