How to best hold investment property

[Chris Reynolds]

I was wondering what the best way to hold real estate for the buy, hold, and rent out approach is. I currently have an LLC in which I place my investment properties, but how many is the "smart" limit for one LLC in terms of protecting yourself should a problem arise (being sued due to a fall for example). Also, does it matter if the houses are paid off, and you have 100% equity in the house vs. having a property with a loan?

Thank you in advance for the advise.