If someone injures themselves and sues, they will be suing the LLC and not you personally.

I personally don’t like installment sale contracts or contracts for deeds, especially over long periods of time.

It’s frustrating to them and agents because they waited to ask in person questions to an agent who cannot answer them. 

When you refinance, banks look at your property's value, not your personal credit.

Personally, I just post on line the rental thats available and see who replies just to see if its needed in that area before I purchase 

Figure out the best medium in which you meet these folks (in person, LinkedIn, networking groups etc)4.

We have monthly in-person meetups in New Jersey for when you are in town.

I do believe for what you clarified from your original post that breaking even is okay and you'll be using it for personal use that you can do this. 

Locations with growing populations and younger demographics tend to have higher demand for housing, which can lead to higher property values and rental income.Proximity to AmenitiesThe proximity of a property to amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues can impact its desirability to renters and buyers.

If you do rent by the room watch out for local unrelated person ordinances.