A few questions from a new investor

[Joel Gilbert]

I love this website! I am new here and I have been listening to the podcast, reading articles and scrolling through the forum non-stop. I have a few questions that might be silly or easily answered, but I am having a hard time finding specific information.

A little background. I own one property and I am looking at buying my second soon. I live and work in a college town, and have never had a problem renting out my first home. I'm not looking to quit my job and do this full time, and I plan on acquiring properties slowly, at least for now.

My questions are mostly business related. Here goes:

Question 1. Is it smart/necessary/required to register a business when getting into rental investments? I bought a house, lived in it while doing renovations and now I think I'm ready to move on to a second property (live in second, rent out first). If I have a business can I write off renovations, and business related operating costs (internet, gas, etc.)? Are there special rules that govern investment companies?

2. If you had a "business" would you funnel personal money through the business when buying houses or do you have to keep the actual purchase of the property separate? I guess what I mean is, would the business own the property or would you personally? I'm sure there are many ways to do this, but I am just wondering what would be better for someone in my situation.

3. Would a business protect you personally from legal situations related to renting?

If these take too long to answer and I should just talk to an accountant, lawyer, and banker please just tell me!

Thanks!