I get your thought about selling and investing somewhere with lower taxes, but I would consider the overall picture, not just the taxes.

With that, (and regarding your Question #2) I think your expense line items and numbers will run very similar to what can be found in this BP blog: https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/3915/27972-analyzing-the-financials-of-a-self-storage-facilityYou'll have larger units, which typically means longer length of stay and lower turnover so your management/payroll expense could be lower.

My logic is if I tell them I am self representing then I can offer the 2% lower and they know they will get to keep that since I dont have an agent. 

I'd end up putting it on the closing statement and not budge off of that. 

I was just under contract for a duplex that needed 2 repairs prior to closing that would have cost in the $7500-10,000 range.

I have several properties now that the office is closed on Monday or Wednesday during the week as an 'office day' .Depending on when the property is closing out their accounting month, that would be a busy day also. 

You way you are months away from closing.

I requested them if they can lower down their bill to my budget which is amount that I am covered with insurance.

if you own the land free and clear there are options for financing with no upfront cost with closing costs and initial draw coming from the land 

I've been specializing in foreclosures/short sales for 17 years  and have closed hundreds.