Do I simply use private money and purchase in my own name or do I go the syndication route and if so, do I need to create an LLC to hold the property? 

If you buy in an LLC then you will have to get a commercial loan.

My background is in darn near everything from new construction of residential and commercial properties, property maintenance, contracting, networking, team building, LLC formation, business ownership and accounting.  

Found out after the fact that having a registered agent in Tennessee & registering LLC in Tennessee is the way to go to avoid being labeled as foreign entity for taxes

We have a newly formed LLC.

Your CPA might also recommend your llc being taxed as an S-Corp, but there are many variables that only you and your accountant will know and should know to determine the best tax strategy for you sir.

As a pass-through LLC, the business's financials are our financials.That said, how do you find someone you can trust with your personal and business financial information?

Specifically interested in: should we create an LLC, best way to track income/ expenses, as well as a other personal questions related to real estate investing. 

@Amit GuptaI think you got it backwardsThe SDIRA owns an LLC, or trust, that purchases the real property.

Most HML’s require you buy/finance in an LLC to avoid this.