I am an active investor in Rochester (one property being actively  rehabbed and one under contract atm) as well as licensed agent and if you would like to talk more feel free to reach out. 

It’s all crap and it is better that you found it out prior to getting taken for more than you did.There is a ton of info here on BP for free or for very low cost so I recommend you read books and stay active here to learn.

I bet most of these guys in your area would know just by the address what the potential for asbestos would be and possibly could alleviate your fears by a simple inspection. 

There are usually lectures that can help you be informed about various topics in real estate, and if you introduce yourself and ask others about their investing, you might meet the person that can help you out as well.One other thing, listen to the podcasts here on Bigger Pockets: they can give you a lot of information as well, and are super entertaining.Lastly, be sure to stay active in the forums: it's a great way to learn and to connect with others!

Then all of the activities of the trust and the LLC are reported on your personal tax return so the IRS disregards those entities anyway and sees you as the true taxpayer anyway. 

I have learned a ton from them, including which niche I am most interested in.Be active in the forums: you both learn and have opportunities to build connections with others.

I've read that one exception that allows someone to keep their VA Loan active and purchase another house is if you have a growing family.

looking to be a passive or active investor? 

OlenaI am an active investor in Greenville SC and do have a Broker in Charge license in South Carolina.

I started taking action while I was still active duty so do your research and don't be afraid to make some mistakes.