Can I use an existing LLC

You can use his LLC. You do however create possible liability problems for his LLC in the case the "new" real estate business were to be sued. It would suggest getting a new LLC and even a new LLC for each property. There is a new LLC product that is becoming more common called a series LLC which has separate compartments which seam to act independently. This allows you to own one LLC that acts like say 10 LLC's.

How would a new real estate business be sued? Just thought I'd ask so I know what not to do

Just think of all the crazy lawsuits that are out there. I have a friend who owns a business in town(this could apply to property you own as well). Several years ago, a drunken person stumbled from the sidewalk onto their property during the night and tripped and fell over a stack of (whatever it was, I don't remember). He sued them and WON! Even though HE was trespassing and drunk! My friend didn't lose "everything", but the point is the more assets you have tied to your LLC, the more there is for some crazy person to figure they can get out of you. I think it might be good to have your husband's business separate from your real estate anyway, just to keep the 2 individual entities. Who knows, at some point you may want to sell one or the other.
Just my thoughts on the subject (no expert, for sure. )

God bless,

Rina

Even if I have the business and real estate separate LLC can I still advertise both together? My husbands business is a great open door to talk to homeowners about selling.

Ex. I see a run down property knock on the door to introduce our remodeling business and give them a card for 10% discount. I am getting a feel for where they are in their situation. On the card it says "I buy houses" I explain that to them and walk away. Who knows?

I have recently started a web site for my RI venture. http://cash4house.vpweb.com/. It is still under construction.

Even though they are shown together as one, I can have a separate LLC. for each to protect my assets right?

Work them both together, even if they're separate businesses.

Did you see cactusbob's answer in your guestbook, too? Good advice.
http://www.deangraziosi.com/user/8570

Rina

Generally, when dealing with marketing you would not want to market your business together. They are seperate service companies. One does one thing the other does something different.

Most marketing professionals are going to tell you to focus your marketing to the people who are going to respond directly to your add. Most consumers / buyers are not looking for two business at once and may move on.

Do I need an LLC to do assignments? Or just when I purchase a home to rent or sell myself? I am not sure about assignment laws in NJ. I know that assignments are illegal in many states.

Thank you for all of this info. I am glad I have bulldogs like this on my side. Pit bulls to be exact!.

If you are looking to an assignment of contract you do not NEED an LLC but it is always a good idea to have. The LLC helps to disconnect you from the property you are working on - just in case. LLC's create three positives for you the investor:
1) You look like a legitimate company
2) You get the tax write offs
3) You have protection against lawsuits.

I love the write offs the best. Each Friday or Saturday I take my wife on a date. Each date we talk a little about business - she is after all part owner of one of my business. I take note on this "meeting" and now the date is tax writable. In fact if we do any activity tied to this "meeting" such as golfing within 24 hours this is also tax writable. Nice Huh.