I would like to build several (2 - 6) "shipping container" type homes for either short, mid or long term rental.

Michael Mergell (self), the Investor's Broker

This also helped us in an unattended way when investing with my Solo 401k because banks treated the funds as liquid when invested in a public traded exchange versus in their fund and helped with securing better commercial financing on a deal because of the strength of our application in liquid assets.

In terms of other factors, I'm not sure there's a lot because I did have some people express interest in filling out an application before, and I actually got really close with one potential tenant, but it was because of the alcohol policy that he ultimately decided to back out.

They are a great crowd, and networking was amazing.I just finished the self paced course and just got off the phone with them concerning the Gold and Platinum programs for mentorship.  

So often rentals don't have taxable income; and once they do it's still not subject to the payroll taxes paid by W2 wages or on self employed income. 

I am looking into buying my first self storage facility.

Remember, the notion of amassing wealth without investing is a dangerous myth perpetuated by self-proclaimed experts.

Self-Employment Opportunities: Would it make sense to start a side business related to my rental properties (such as property management) to access more deductions?

Even if you plan to self-manage, having a solid property management contact early on is always a good move.