I imagine those renters will fill it and then not access it much, so it shouldn't be a bother to your tenants.

I guess my first question, which I imagine is similar for many who enters into this forum, is what is the best first steps for someone who is interested in real estate and investing, but doesn't have a great deal of capital to begin the journey?

I think every market and every person have their own reasons, but here are some thoughts from a property manager.Pros for self managing / cons of PM- Keep all the revenue- You have 100% control- You own listing, photos, etc- Nobody will ever care about your investment as much as you do.Cons for self managing/ Pros for property management- This is a 24h / 7days a week business and I imagine you have at least somewhat of a life I imagine. 

Insurance is going to protect you financially from lawsuits, damages, total losses, and other scenarios we can't even begin to imagine until it actually happens.You'll want to have a broker you can work with and trust that will make sure you're properly protected in the event of a loss.

Imagine getting 20-40% off many things others have to buy with post tax $’s.Don’t forget that “stepped up basis” if you have any heirs.

Can you imagine actually communicating with your borrower?

I assume you got a better interest rate, and I know you are saving a boatload of interest. 3) imagine year 11-30 where you are cash flowing thousands with paid off properties instead of hundreds because of these lean 10 years. 4) hopefully you can raise rents at least $100 each every year and in 2 years your cash flow neutral even with preferred short term mortgage. 

I can't imagine how much extra time is spent without having automation.

If it's just slapped in the backyard, i'd imagine it may not make a big difference but if you create an environment around it, it could be different.   

I can’t imagine what kind of things the city ask for turning silo into a house haha