Again, I think other than someone providing examples of their prior deals, I think I now have a good grasp of it.  

Yet if a peace is ever settled in the region i would expect prices to go up, but at the same time, i am not exactly up on my UAE politics and i dont have a grasp on the laws of the land.If you have the cash and could strike a deal with a contractor over there you could stand to make some money.

I feel I have a good grasp on the fundamentals of how things work.

We're living in a single family in Bethel (so I have a decent grasp on Fairfield county) but am looking to house hack a 2-4 unit in New Haven soon.

@Scott MeyersThose are true words of wisdom.I agree with everything you noted.This is a business that requires a different approach .unlike residential.I've been fortunate enough to learn about ss by working with a developer investor who built his own self storage developments,me  attending ss seminars, and learning and managing 3 facilities hands on to get a full grasp and understanding of ss business.

For a given property, the Greater the reward the lower the risk.The key words there are "for a given property" but so many investors just can't grasp this concept.

Seller's who think they can price high and just drop as time continues don't always grasp this and lose out on potential sale.On the investor side, I've always recommended running numbers with cost of resale through an agent included.

Once you have a firm grasp of each component of the business, you can train others to do those functions or you'll be in a better position to vet good teammates. 

Once you have a grasp of these concepts and principles you will be able to make sound investing decisions.

.*  This might be the hardest thing to grasp for most beginning investors.2) You make your money when you buy.