Common fees will include a set-up fee, a leasing fee for each turnover or a lease renewal fee, marking up maintenance, retaining late fees, and more.

Anyone who is advertising an "easy way", you are the product.

It is not illegal as long as they aren't hidden and aren't in bedrooms or bathrooms...I have two in the common areas.

the storage thing is pretty common, seen several grocery stores turned into that. 

I had to get it set up due to the advertised washer and dryer costing me $$.

There's a specific forum for House Hacking.You'll want to spend some time reading through there as it's a common topic.

From google: “The Fair Housing Act (FHA) does not apply to certain types of rentals, including: Owner-occupied buildings: If the building has four or fewer units and is owned by the person who lives there Single-family homes: If the owner rents or sells the home without using a real estate agent, and they own no more than three homes Religious organizations: If the property is only available to members of the organization's religion Private clubs: If the property is only available to members of the club Senior housing: If the property is designated for people who are at least 55 years old Even if a property is exempt from the FHA, it must still comply with the law's ban on discriminatory statements, notices, or advertising.

There are some major developments continuing construction, however; the price points are upwards at $290,000 or higher and rent rates being advertised at $2,000 a month.

Find a small one that is not nationally advertised. 

The most common asset type was commercial multis 7-10 units.