This strategy aligns well with the buy-and-hold model.Leverage Local Expertise: Partner with professionals like real estate agents familiar with rental markets and property managers who understand tenant needs.

I'm a local investor, flipper, and property management company owner.  

Property taxes will likely be reassessed based on the transfer value, so confirm local rules to anticipate potential increases.If you hold the property for at least one year, you can use the equity as collateral for a construction loan, aligning with your long-term financing plans.

@Luke Spencer I am not on the management side but I can tell you it took 2+ years to fill 300 units at one of our facilities and the other just hit 300 units in 12/13 months so it really depends on the demographics, and local housing market trend, the more people moving in and out the higher the demand for storage.I think if you're looking at a saturated market then the upfront cash to turn the warehouse into self storage is not a good idea but then again, maybe those operators are on back roads ( low visibility ) and don't push google ads well.

Nevertheless I am local now and I have that real estate desire (which never went away).

Going to start by checking into local REÍ meetups and talking to some friends and family that are doing what I’d like to.

I want to remain local in NJ or at most drive down 1hr to PA (self-manage or, last resort, hire a PM)However, I must also consider maintaining reserves, a safety net for my primary home, and an emergency fund.It's just hard for a new investor now :(

Did you try a local CU or bank for a construction to permanent loan?

For example, you might leave $10,000–$25,000 in the deal, end up with a $3,000 monthly payment, and only collect $3,000 (or slightly less) in rent.This applies to my local market and primarily to Class B or higher real estate.You’re better off finding a solid property that needs only light cosmetic work (e.g., paint, flooring, or perhaps a kitchen or bathroom remodel), buying it at a decent discount, and putting down at least 25%.

Network with local investors to understand what formulas they're using.3.