I’d rather spend the time in my area of expertise (software) where I can earn more money per time spent with far less risk.I’m not trying to make a living off of real estate – it’s more to park cash in a tax-efficient vehicle and remove the temptation to spend it on luxury items (let's be honest, I'm not as frugal as many of you ;-) ).

I may incorporate what you say with some other item.

., Ralph nailed two of the most important items you missed:1 - All three agreements must NOT refer to the other agreements, as they are all 3 separate agreements2 - DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT ever give credits/month towards the purchase. 

LLCs I think have become mostly a personal vanity item, a rather transparent and shallow way to impress the woefully naive, and other uninformed wannabes.

outside of the cost of the appraisal - do you have to pay for items such as a loan origination fee, title costs relating to recording a mortgage, etcI appreciate everyone's help!

As opposed to, the interest being considered investment interest and I have to itemize?

Imagine the background check coming back with:"a lengthy criminal record with prior arrests on allegations of assault, disorderly conduct, destruction of property, resisting arrest, theft, public intoxication, and possession of marijuana"I've applied for CCW.

@Greg O'Brien, I think the last item from the list applies to everyone.

It sounds like you have already taken action and moved the important items out and talked to the neighbors.

@James YorkYou should work with a lender who is familiar with lenders with real estate portfolio's.Lenders have the ability to add-back certain items to come up with your total income which helps your DTI ratio.Regarding your rental income - a lender will add-back non-cash tax expenses such as depreciation.