I have seen a number of "partnerships" with service providers but have recently come across one from CenturyLink and wondered if anyone had experience specifically with this provider. 

3.I was thinking about getting into a partnership.

As a General contractor , I do just that , a GC, I am not financing anyone’s project unless it’s some sort of partnership .

Hi BP-
I am the general partner as well as a minority limited partner in company I created to buy an asset. We bought 18 units in Lubbock, TX in 2018. The property is doing great and we are looking to pull some equit...

as a multi-member LLC, it would go on the partnership filing forms (sorry, don't know where), and then passed along to your personal returns.  

I would definitely still have some sort of operating/partnership agreement up front, where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined. i would also include exit strategies. you do want to be careful about being in business with family. having everything laid out up front can help. 

Partnerships can be a hassle and most times end up in disagreement, unfortunately.

If doing business as an entity, or in a partnership, consult a CPA asap.

What would be the dos and don'ts of structuring a partnership?

Mauricio Rauld, Kim Lisa Taylor, and Jillian Sidoti are well regarded in the industry from the General Partnership side.