I simply stated a fact based on my experience.

Prices for whole buildings will obviousl vary based on age, size, location, but they are fairly high IMO. 

Sub-to laws vary from state to state, so definitely make sure any legal documents were prepared/reviewed by a local lawyer familiar with this transaction type.As far as whether someone was taken advantage of...

This really could be all over the place based on what type of properties ones has and where they are located.Expenses and mortgage also greatly affect the bottom line.Someone with 5 properties could be killing it or not have two nickles to rub together.

And the answer is always the same :-) There is no way to accurately do this...too many variables and moving parts, plus it varies too much from one locale to another.You need to find a really good General Contractor and pay him to walk the property with you....over and over....until you feel really comfortable estimating yourself, and that should take years.Alternatively there are online calculators (even one here in the tools section) but I would not rely on them for the reasons listed above.

Let's have a phone call about what exactly you are looking for, and then based on that I can help you.

While there are different areas with varying qualities, most locations have potential for investment.

I'm thinking of managing myself and looking for a fee based advisor who is versed in tax/management.

I am based in Greater Philadelphia region and worked on a deal the owner sold 75K sq ft self storage and kept 20K sq ft of contractor specific self storage.

I have a varied background that includes accounting, (small) real estate development, and (residential) construction.