Being next to a busy highway I'm sure lowers the value considerably. 

It's easy to predict short term rates are going to rise, and directionally we know where long term rates are headed, but the magnitude of those changes is unknown.

@Luther Smith Owning a property free and clear can be great for cash-flow, but depending on what your goals are, refinancing should be a consideration.

With the rise of popularity and credibility of AirBnB, Homeaway and Flipkey, this market is surging. 

You might still have to be the one to create any edging trench around the planting beds, but that is not repeated more than once a year from my experience so not as much of a hassle time-wise for you.And you have to get them to understand that good housekeeping on the tenant's part will not only help to control expenses, but also give them better consideration at lease renewal time ...

I don't listen to podcasts, they usually make my blood pressure rise and I start talking to myself.

@Jean Bolger First off -- thank you much for your time to write the long list of advice for me -- very considerate people on BP!

They are quickly being transformed into "good" areas and prices are rising.

Pay special attention to what the lease rate starts at and how it rises over the years.People have this fantasy sometimes about the food business but it rarely matches up to reality.Hope it helps.

So take that into consideration when you're looking into your options and the law/code.2) Look into:RVTiny homes (some could be below the square footage that comes under scrutiny)Tiny homes on wheels (like RV, but smaller, and less unsightly) - the wheels at least get you out of the building code issues.