Does anyone use one of the large storage unit providers as their management company.What would be reasons you did and how has the process gone?

FOR REFERENCE, THIS IS WHAT UPSTAIRS LOOKS LIKE: My gut wants to go with Option 2 because this means it's a full-fledged 4/2 with a master bathroom PLUS that bonus 10x12 room upstairs (half of which would probably be converted into closet/storage space).

Jay and the storage container on leased land  is an interesting idea.  

But there aren't cheap subdivisions anymore, unless you call a MHP a subdivision;) Or mini storage.

My guess is that the roof is flat; and solar panels should be angled a bit facing south I believe, so you might have to add some structure for that; then you would need an inverter, and you might even want a bank of batteries for storage (and maybe not since you can sell excess generated electricity back to PECO).

All contracts, options, or other devices not based upon a substantial consideration, or that are otherwise employed to permit an unlicensed person to sell, lease, or let real estate, the beneficial title to which has not, in good faith, passed to such party for a substantial consideration, are hereby declared void and ineffective in all cases, suits, or proceedings had or taken under this chapter; however, this section shall not apply to irrevocable gifts, to unconditional contracts to purchase, or to options based upon a substantial consideration actually paid and not subject to any agreements to return or right of return reserved.

I am located in jacksonville in jacksonville florida and am also an avid real estate investor with more than a 30 property portfolio consisting of primarily self storage, Carwash's and eve a 400 acre hunting lodge.

Anyone have any good tips or lessons learned about finding and investing in storage units

We had a 6 plex the basement was only for use by us we kept the door locked and that was that no tenants permitted for any kind of storage or use.

So we negotiated a bit, hit up how he is throwing his money away on an expensive storage unit and left him with an offer to consider.