I agree with the others comment i would wait.

I agree with what Paul says, most accountants don't have the knowledge to advise on even the most basic approaches. 

@Brian GarlingtonHAHA Yes I have to agree you have an Awesome name!!

@Andy Bondhus I don't know the legality behind any of it but I do know that a lender can offer a program with specific features, in this case escrow, and if you do not agree with it, they do not have to lend. 

Lastly, i agree that 5% is on the high end and should be fixed (if you're the landlord.) 

@Nicholas Jestus, Just agreeing with what the majority has said previously...

Learning how to trust professionals is the first thing to learn when investing outside of the country.

In California this annual fee (called a Franchise Tax) is $800 (the highest in the country by far, hurrah for California) + an addition fee based upon the LLC's income. 

I agree the maintenance costs should be well below a SFR.Add to that the mortgage pay down and this seems far from a “mistake” to me.

After looking at a few in the price range I had in mind I have to agree, it may not be the best route for my situation.