So Much Self Storage Data – Keep It Simple

So Much Self Storage Data – Keep It Simple

Yes, self storage has performed well during past recessionary times. But past performance is not indicative of future performance. At least, that is what my LLC documents say. How many of you were in the self storage business during the ’08 recession? I was....
Self Storage as a Retirement Vehicle

Self Storage as a Retirement Vehicle

I was asked to write an article on self storage as an investment vehicle to fund one’s retirement. I almost turned down the assignment because I have such a strong opinion about the retirement and wealth advisors industry. I need to say I am not an investment advisor....
Our Number One Source Of New Leases

Our Number One Source Of New Leases

For most of our facilities, in 2020 & 2021, what do you think was the number one source of new leases? If you guessed the internet, you are close. In fact, for some facilities, it was, in some quarters. But as a portfolio, what is the number one source of our new...
Our Number One and Two Sources of Referrals

Our Number One and Two Sources of Referrals

“Referrals” as a source of new self storage leases average between 10% on the low end to 40% on the high end per quarter between 2016 and 2021. We do our best to track everything, including where our new leases come from, and referrals have always been a very high...
A Quick Way to Increase Retail Sales

A Quick Way to Increase Retail Sales

This self storage episode will be short but could be worth, let’s say, $40,000 of value. Perhaps worth reading. I am talking about a way to increase retail sales. No matter where we are in retail sales in any given facility, we always look to improve it. This amount...
Back to Self Storage Reality?

Back to Self Storage Reality?

I was reminded by a friend and someone I have been working with for a number of years just how naive I was four or five years ago about the self storage industry. I remember writing and saying, “With all the data and technology available today, there is no need for...