Hi all, this is my first real question here... a CPA recommended that for a residential rental business in NC I should start an LLC but buy the homes in my own name because a business cannot deduct the mortgage intere...

@Gary MontgomeryYour first year is going to be the most difficult because you will not have any tax returns as a SE investor, which is heavily weighted for bank underwriting. 

The LLC already has EIN # and state tax ID#, separate bank account.Advance thanks.

Simple question: Can I pay my wife to clean a rental property instead of hiring a cleaning company and claim it as a tax deduction, or is that unethical/illegal?

Here you can turn one year's tax return (or one year's contribution to a self-directed IRA) into a down payment on a new rental property. 

2- How to structure the business to get the most tax benefits, taking into consideration that 50% of the company will be owned by a foreigner?

Tony will be listed as the contact on the appraisal engagement letter the lender sends out.I also recommend putting together a similar professional packet for your lender including the analysis, rehab costs, tax returns, personal financial statement, real estate portfolio and bio on your self.  

The commercial space exterior also needs a face lift, but there are grants available for this that will match funds up to $2,500.Expenses:Management: 8%CapEx: 5%Maintenance: 10%Taxes: $3400Insurance: $2900Levy/Rental Fees: $1000Sewer: $1400Water: $1080Garbage: $900

The buyer pays the insurance, taxes and pays to maintain the property.  

I also obtained certification in mitigation for foreclosures, short sales and tax sales for Global Equity Lending and American Home Lending.