They are a little more expensive, but their customer service is amazing and they are really responsive. 

I know I need to find out what type of contracts he has set up with the current customers.  

Just because you spent some money exploring opportunities in the state does not constitute business activity, so I think your fine, I agree with @Scott McCadden that I would set up an LLC in Texas if you do end up purchasing a property, or may want to explore using a land trust to hold th property which may avoid this issue all together, this has become popular in FL, but not sure if they work similar in TX.Hope this helps good luck

Great at follow-up, communication, and general customer service.

There are also several companies that are popular among investors here in Austin.

One thing I worry about storage is having customers churn and never coming back after they realize that they could have just re-bought everything instead of keeping their items in storage for a few years... thoughts?

I've never heard of this heating method before, but a google search tells me that it was popular in the '70s and can make for a high electricity bill.

Just have to keep in mind long term that technically your not allowed to rent both units, it's supposed to be owner occupied.I like La Mesa in that price range because its close to the city, safe, and will continue to gain popularity over the next few years with the younger generation of renters.

Different marketing names will appeal to different customers. 

If you just try to go build a custom site out the gate, I suspect it will not work out well.However, don't mix up two concepts: (1) SEO rank, and (2) conversion rate.