I like the storage unit idea. Just need to be in an area that’s available and affordable. I live in LAS and I don’t think you’d be able to do a Ma and pa shop with all the big name companies here. They are popping up all over here.

I’ve owned multi unit rentals since 2009. It’s been very profitable and helped me create a pretty good net worth. The key is to buy them at reasonable prices. I sold 2 of them in 2021 when I’d get calls out of the blue if I want to sell and made a lot $ and paid off my house. I kept the 2 newer ones and those will be my retirement income.

As far as hassle goes, I manage them myself and have reliable plumber, electric, hvac people. I’ve had water leaks, a small fire, a police raid, and my favorite - a domestic fight that lead in a stabbing death . Pools of blood everywhere. I learned there’s companies that specialize in that cleanup. The one I used is named appropriately- Aftermath!