Storage place.

If I were in your shoes, I'd begin by listening to the podcasts. 

If I were in your shoes, as a newbie as well, I'd tell them you're the new landlord, and you're working on making their houses become even better.  

If deeper, consider building them so the garage, storage, utilities are on the first level and not much else.

My Ranges will cost only about $500 brand new (I just bought a new one today).I don't think the one shoe fits all works for $100k multi-family buildings in low income areas versus high Multi-Million Dollar multi-family buildings in dense and desirable areas where you can command high income.The two kinds of investments need different calculations and strategies.I absolutely know these differences because of my other friends that decided to invest in non-Major Metro areas outside of my Area.

It has a large covered pea gravel patio on the back and a separate storage building to house yard tools and equipment. 

Pay for 30 or 60 days of storage rent and throw a combo lock on the unit.

Currently I have a couple single families, a duplex, and a small storage facility that generate a good income. 

I store spare appliances in a storage building. 

In your shoes, I would do a nominal $35-$50 per month for a 3-5 month lease.