Atleast thats how I look at things outside of the RE world, so if i had my hands dirty in a deal, it would be more important than ever to run a tight ship.

I found a factory/mill with no distribution in my area so they shipped me direct.

So you can keep things status quo,put in meters for each unit (recommended),or also use the RUBS system.The RUBS system is (residential utility billing system).A private company comes in and puts meters on each unit instead of the water company.Then they bill the tenant for usage and collect payment for you for a fee.You still have to cover payment to the water company as it's one line going in with separate meters but the tenants argue less as the landlord isn't saying this or that person uses this amount but this third party company does.You have to check as RUBS is not allowed in all jurisdictions.For your area also check if utilities are included in the rent payment from most of all the other multifamily landlords close by.If it is you will have a big problem metering and charging as the tenants will jump ship unless your base rent is much lower to compensate.Not a little lower but MUCH lower.If your research concludes that most have metered out in the area and do not include utilities in total rent payment then it is a good move and customary for the area.Do not overpay for this property.Water is the biggest investment killer for multifamily long term if not handled correctly.

I now work in shipping/logistics company, which can be demanding time wise but pays me all right.

I just ordered 100 signs ($155 plus shipping) so I will soon be able to tell you my success rate here in the Greater Boston Area but I was wondering how many wholesalers put signs on their cars and if they get any calls that way?

Just because I'm curious, with companies like Trachte, do they just ship the components nationally and the buyer has them installed on site?

He simply doesn't understand.Your goal, as a creative investor, is to launch your ship into financial orbit ... and then put it on automatic pilot.What kind of believer are you?

Shipping container homes intrigue me and my goal is to take on that kind of a project some day.

It's business model was to list a product for a few bucks cheaper than amazon, and then when ordered, drop ship from amazon to the customer and book the "loss"!.

You're not going to get stick-built home prices for them.Zoning may also prevent them being placed on lots not zoned for them.Check with your local officials regard what can and cannot be placed on a lot in your area.You might also want to explore modular homes: houses stick-built in a factory and shipped to the homesite in pieces ("modules") on flat bed trucks.