My mortgage broker provided 3 options: traditional monthly mortgage insurance until my LTV was <80%, upfront mortgage insurance (cash due at closing), or the LPMI mentioned above, in exchange for a .25% increase in the rate (.5% sounds like too much).  

I am looking at  acquiring 3-4 properties through a 1031 exchange from an appreciated rental that I have in my own name - I already have that part figured out.What I am still researching is whether or not to put these in LLCs.

However, this site thrives on interactions and as such we encourage two way exchanges and look forward to educational and thought provoking ideas relevant to REI.

Could we form an LLC with me contributing money through a self-directed Roth IRA in exchange for an X% interest in this LLC?

I am sure you will find something to take away from the discussion chain.https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/49/topics/178...Also, now that you have taken your initial step, below are some quick links to get engaged. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate Success However, this site thrives on interactions and as such we encourage two way exchanges and look forward to educational and thought provoking ideas relevant to REI.

I was surfing some of the note exchange sites and I came across a NP second that interested me because of its geography. 

Now, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.Below, are some quick links to get engaged. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets However, this site thrives on interactions and as such we encourage two way exchanges and look forward to educational and thought provoking ideas relevant to REI.

@Dev Horn - Having been in that precise situation myself, I know it's difficult for a couple of relative strangers to make a partnership of any kind work effectively for a long period. 

There are plenty of agents and brokers who do mentoring in exchange for a 25% of your commissions while you are being mentored.  

One thing that wasn't mentioned in this thread is that you can do an exchange instead of selling to avoid recapture of depreciation.