I focus on SE CT and used to live around the corner in Storrs.

We don't really have cash sitting around per se, but we are cash buyers. 

I don't have any statistics per se to give you but I would say at the moment we are/will be flush with storage units in the area.

You'd be converting income not subject to SE tax to income subject to SE tax, and adding complexity, administrative overhead, and increased professional fees.It's almost certainly a net negative.Apply the K.I.S.S. principal.

I am just about ready to start purchasing and I could use se advice/guidance.

The Idaho Falls/SE Idaho area might be a great place for you at the <$200k price point you can usually find a pretty nice 3-4 bed 1-2 bath style home with about 1800-2000 sqft.

Looking to network and make connections in the SE Michigan area. 

There is no "right" or "wrong" answer per se, so Good Luck piecing your next one together!

We have a small meetup for SE CT.

In big cities and little towns, in the NW, SE and everywhere in between.