2) Current situation: Seller's parent died.

Do you recommend setting up a separate a LLC for each property or do you use a series LLC (the parent company with each series for each property)?

I used a local bank in northern WV that my parents referred me to.

My parents live near a college town and I thinking renting around military bases will be my best bet for getting started.  

A 3 bedroom row-house for $800 would not a Penn parent rent. 

I have two parents whose health is declining.

My parents have a number of commercial and residential rental properties there, and I started out when I was younger by doing the maintenance on them. 

Hey Kyle,I'm a Freshman to REI and I told my parents and girlfriend right away!

I have assisted with being landlord for my parent's properties, and we have only used Craigslist.  

Best to have your caller (who could be on the phone or across the kitchen table) to have a bit of RE smarts to select situations. even better if they know more than you to teach and give different alternatives as you practice.My parents were Realtors and we did this, had some fun and funny times trying to stump them with responses.