I've talked with the three big national 3d party managers (Extra Space, CubeSmart, LifeStorage) and the two big southeast regional players (Universal and Absolute).  

Energy is a major player but tech, healthcare, financial/insurance, manufacturing, and dozens more employment sectors have expanded dramatically dues to a very strong pro-business environment, reasonable cost of living, and quality of life factors.What are the downsides? 

You inspired me in this male dominated community of investors.

I had local propane company do mine for $300.

Know that your education goes on forever to help you dominate your niche and your financial statement readability and understanding.When beginning just do what is tradional, building design, and the location will make a difference besides the amenities that come with it.  

I am just finishing up The ideal team player. 

Hi Michael, I started tax lien investing after  identifying my criteria (types of liens, tax assessor values, owned by bank vs. mortgagee vs. business)went to a couple auctions in the areas I was interested in getting involved in to figure out the pace and the players at the auctionreading 16% Solution by Joel Moskowitzreading through BP to figure out how other seasoned tax lien investors (Ned Carey is one) were approaching their business Hope this helps.

Whereas, some of the newer players might guest for free, or might even pay BP, for the exposure to potential investors.Anyone in the know about this?

If you have deals the networking with real players will follow.

I'm going to keep my personal things pretty limited... record player, clothes, pictures....