I did like the old layout of member search because I could see more results quickly without scrolling.

The lay of the land really dictated the lot layout, wanted to do more lots but it just did not seem to be the thing to do back then

As far as partnering with him, a partnership on a rental property may be an option if I can bring credit or financing to the table, but I am getting paid to do the layout design, drawings, and material selections for his new construction investments and client remodels, so no opportunity on that end.

I am in the same situation where I live and I just searched apartment floor plans on the net and found what I thought would go well here and be popular convenient layouts for tenants.

Panels on the front of a house can be ugly, but it all depends on the style of the house and the layout that's chosen.

-Units are same sq ftg (approx 500 sq ft), but one is a studio and one is an actual 1 br-Fully renovated (floor-to-ceiling) units of the same layout and size in the complex are selling today for $155k-$180k (big range, but supply and demand, right?)

The 2 bedroom condo with the same layout was sold for 650k.

It's a two-flat and the same exact layout as my house which is extremely rare in my area.

Or any thoughts on a good resource for how to lay out the terms for owner financing for something like this? 

If you still feel strongly about an LLC, it might be worthwhile to have an initial consultation with an attorney, and clearly layout all your assets and see if the expense is justified.