Arnold, thanks for starting a good thread (at least from my selfish perspective, it's a good one ). I literally just started wiring TODAY of my first layout with the homerun/star approach. Past layouts with TMCC but without DCS used the bus wire approach. Doesn't seem like rocket science, but I tend to overthink new things.
I purchased a used TIU and remote several years ago, but have only used them on a carpet layout at Christmas. Perhaps out of fear with MTH's closure, I recently bought a back-up remote and TWO back-up TIUs. Just dealing with versions will be a new experience.
Looking forward to reading everyone's comments and advice.