In order to successfully navigate this space you must be very selective about what you buy, where you buy it and what you pay for it.

If you have a unique name it allows for people to search for the name and find your off platform website.My kids helped me pick a name and they got me a custom sign that is displayed at the end of the driveway.

You do need to know how to navigate that market and if you are looking for safe, nice areas you definitely want to do your homework.

We find that the majority of them prefer to bring it in & be waited on by one of our customer service associates, even if they have to wait in line.

IMO, the leaders of our industry have leveraged technology pretty well to improve customer service.  

I have personally thought about doing this, setting up a C-Corp with my family to act as a board of directors, and own each new investment property as a separate LLC, it sounds good and probably works well but lets talk about some other concerns.Firstly while most lawyers myself included could probably help you navigate those 3 points above, if you are seriously considering the umbrella company strategy I think it would be prudent to search out a skilled asset protection firm.

@Joe PeaThere are very specific rules relating to S179 of property leased out to customers by non-corporate taxpayers. 

Customer service?

I have also used Hotline America for incoming calls as well as a way to provide more info to customers. 

If you stage a place well, get nice photos taken (use Airbnb's free photography service), provide prompt responses and good customer service, you can do very very well.