Also be aware of Unrelated Business Income Tax (or UBIT) on leveraged real estate inside of an IRA.Or better yet, since you are self-employed - go with a truly self-directed Solo 401k plan, which would be a much better option and will help you avoid the UBIT on this investment.

I am a full-time Real Estate Professional (Agent with almost all other income coming from active and passive RE investments).

Are you intentionally looking to outsource the management and day to day operations to a management company versus self-managing? 

After 30+ years being a part-time real estate investor.

I'm looking into Self Storage investing. 

Self storage syndication post.  

The 5-10 it gets heavier and a lot busier, and 10-15-20 it really is untenable to self-manage especially if this is not you main business like a person buying their own rentals and building it like a small business. 

You can self manage from anywhere.

And Chula Vista or Escondido are great areas for first-timers who want to stay near SD but reduce entry costs.Network at local meetups like “Beers and Deals” - The connections you’ll make there can open up off-market opportunities.Where did you end up starting starting - SD, or did you end up in nearby markets to get your first win?

I am an investor and full time RE Agent that serves the Gulf Shores / Orange Beach area.