Couple of recommendations if it is possible:Purchase a home built after 1960's: likely poured in foundation, copper electrical that is grounded, plumbing that is not in need of replacement yet. 

Looking into ground up development for single story climate control self storage facilities in my market and looking for some general guidance on design & cost rule of thumbs - any help would be greatly appreciated. 

I'd have to widen my ground level porch and extend the roof accordingly.

Boots on the ground.

The difference between a condo/townhome is how is owned - condo you only own from the walls inside the HOA owns the remaining property including the grounds-driveways etc... - townhome you will own ( in your case ) 50% of the roof/siding/driveway/yard etc...

Knowns: ground will be rock, no overhangs, typical 8ft fence with one automatic gate with key pad entry for both entry and exit, lighting and video surveillance. 

There are a few major differences to investing in europe, as you probably have already figured out yourself - my main advise is: find good boots on the ground, you need to get familiar with the areas you consider investing in.

Someone not leased should not have a key, that is for sure, and that should be grounds for eviction.

Because that's less than inflation and you'd actually be losing ground by keeping that cash.

Answer to this is what will lead to reaching a middle ground with terms and conditions that make sense to both the sides.The fun part of such capital stacking strategies is that it allows you room for creative thinking.