That plastic box is just... amazing. Very awesome idea.
I think first grows are difficult no matter where you are, or what style of growing you are doing.
Memaw and I had our number of obstacles to overcome, just as every first-time grower does, I'm sure.
Our set up is currently in the closet -- And I feel you guys on the light/noise/smell issues. We're in a townhouse, so theirs six houses stuck in a row. And we have a cop next door.
So we have a lot of worries. But the cop hasn't said anything so far so that's good!
I would seriously stick to something like the box posted above, or as someone else suggested dresser/cabinet/something.
A buddy of mine just got an armoire that he's going to move his grown into, I think he said it was like 4 foot tall and 3 foot wide. Granted, he only has two plants, so it sounds like it'll be okay for his grow. He says he currently has them in one of those premade grow boxes, I think he said.
Something like that would help muffle the noise a little bit, I would think... Then again I guess I've gotten kind o fused to the roar of our fans.
I don't know what to tell you about the maintenance other than what people have already suggested. Changing locks, etc.
I still vote for that box idea.
-Memaw's GF