I was thinking that the very thin hard carpet could serve as a sound insulation layer, and just installing click together LVP right over the thin carpet and the thin hard stick on tiles. 

I saw the market going up while renting in the area and didn't want to miss the opportunity.

Best neighborhood and best assets are subjective and largely based on the individuals capabilities (balance sheet, skill set, time etc.)

Just call up an agent and ask them if they are the best in their market , odds are the first call you make will be the one .

You may need to resubmit things several times, have a hard time getting ahold of them, and there is a very high chance they blow your deal up last minute, but at least you have the opportunity to get the best rate! 

I think talking with a Broker in the Industry would be helpful too

With respect to the LLC, you can continue to reuse the LLC since you’re not keeping properties in the LLC.

I'm have been asked to enter into a partnership with an experienced investor, and I'm not sure how to or the best way to structure a partnership.

Also would you focus on a specific target market you are familiar with and know the comps like the back of your hand and have boots on the ground ?

We don't do anything like this very often.