One of the major trades is in ground up self storage projects is metal framing and metals are at a historic all time high without any signs of slowing down.

We live in downtown Orlando, in a historic neighborhood, and have personally rehabbed/renovated several historic homes with wood siding ourselves.

Based on the fact that it is not a vacation or historic area, like Paul said, why would anyone want to go visit there?

Once you wrote the review, the business relationship was destroyed and I'm surprised they agreed to do the work at all. 

I also discovered a historical lot line between the two buildings, which means I can divide the 4 plex into 2 duplexes and net another $300k or more down the road.

Using historical prices and inflation you'll be making huge gains completely tax deferred.This process has to start by buying that first rental of which you speak.BTW, I have 140+ doors and scale certainly makes life easier.Respectfully,Gary 

The suburbs have higher taxes and have historically underperformed downtown/north side of chicago areas.

But, with that said, this is the riskiest avenue for those relationships, especially if your numbers are off or the money you get for the bridge is too small.

The property is also in a very attractive location, within walking distance to the downtown area, and has an extremely rich history as it is was the historic town hospital. 

@Lance Stokes Also being a long distance investor, I'd say that one of the best things to do is to first establish good local business relationships ....then only do you look for deals in those areas where your relationships can help you.