Even if the install was done incorrectly, they may still help you out with a customer service approach.

Maybe I'll start just cutting and pasting in a canned response but for now I'm still customizing for the OP

But still trying to conceptualize how to incorporate ongoing expenses/interest payments and loan paydown into that equation to get a more holisitic image before deciding where to live

Most commercial yards put a time limit on your rental anyway in order to be able to serve other customers. 

Are you looking to incorporate the BRRRR strategy and expand your real estate portfolio? 

Perhaps some of these amenities come later (schools, retail/commercial) but selecting markets that have the capabilities of incorporating these features is a good start.

This way, we can customize it to our needs and preferences.Our goal is to live in one half and rent out the other for about 7-10 years, then move on to building our "dream home."

They can make money but from what I've seen your more in the customer care and takes more of your time.

-Decide between fixer-uppers, which offer customization and appreciation potential but require more work, or turn-key properties, which provide immediate rental income with minimal effort.Hiring a Property Manager:-A property management company ensures efficient marketing, tenant screening, rent collection, and maintenance.

I find it unlikely that one could build a house out of a shipping container cheaper than one could build a stick framed house.I work for a custom home builder, and we are a union shop.