LLCs and trusts are essential tools for real estate.

I really wish they weren't, but in today's litigious society it is a must.
And often have several LLCs, so you can move assets (and liabilities) around.

Bah, just getting a lawsuit to/from a renter can tie up a property when you really need it clear. Don't let the cancer spread.

Is there any good ways to buy a property and then rent it to yourself?

So that a ... lets say you let a woman stay over for a bit, because you are a softy and she was thrown out on the street, then she calls the cops swearing abuse.

Now, you are thrown out of your own property... but if you are merely renting, you just start simple eviction... that has nothing to do with you.

(and it doesn't have to be a woman, it could be your cousin, who now claims he is/was a renter.)