If you want to save some $$$ and time, an LLC in NYS can easily be established online.

We'd like to repeat, but prices are rising and saving for the large down payment is slow going.

I have posted regarding this topic before and the general consensus was that I should just start saving more aggressively and then eventually buy a multi-family property as my first deal.

A quality PM is CRUCIAL in preventing unnecessary losses at a property and can save you many headaches and unnecessary expense.

https://www.cnbc.com/video/2018/06/20/costar-group-more-millennials-moving-out.htmlAnd when you take a look at the nearby alternatives to California, the pricing really matters:Average Rent in Sacramento, California: $1,289Average Rent in Las Vegas, Nevada: $959Average Rent in Phoenix, Arizona: $955Average Savings: $330/moMedian Home Price in Sacramento, California: $316kMedian Home Price in Las Vegas, Nevada: $257kMedian Home Price in Phoenix, Arizona: $230kAverage Savings: $400-600/mo on PITI…CONCLUSION:Don’t freak out just yet.

I have enough money saved to put around 15-20% into a mortgage, but I don’t know how to go about doing it.

There are ways to live the American Dream(that is what he taught you how according to your comment, get a good job, get a pension, save, retire) and then there are ways of being wealthy.  

I don't have personal checking or savings with any banks.I opened my current business checking with my local Credit Union, but as I stated in the OP, I don't think they will have a full range of lending options when I get to that point. 

Fire can happen on stove top easier than in oven so not going to save you any sleepless nights by not putting it in there. 

Joe should save his $ and pay off his lien.Otherwise I do not see this working out