RE: trainer plane lifespan
As a corporate pilot, you should be able to find someplace in the plane to stash your gear. I travel a lot and make it a point to visit clubs in the area. Most of the time they ask me if I brought a plane and invite me to fly. Unfortunately, I get to travel in the back, and haven't figured out a way to get a plane packaged for travel. But surely the pilot can find space!
Good Luck!
Brad