HOW TO INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR SELF-STORAGE FACILITY By Jeremiah Boucher

Owning a self-storage facility can be a lucrative investment, but to maximize its potential, it's crucial to find ways to increase its value. In this blog post, we will discuss various strategies to achieve this, including revenue management, improving the appearance of the asset, marketing, cost reduction, utilizing technology, and expanding the asset.

Implement these methods to enhance the value of your self-storage facility and increase the return on your investment.

Increase Revenues by Adjusting Rents to Market Rates:

To optimize your revenue, ensure that your rental rates align with the market. Research competing facilities in your area and adjust your prices accordingly to stay competitive. Keep in mind that it's essential to strike a balance between charging competitive rates but also maximizing the revenue you get from every unit. If you only have a couple of 10 x 10 units left you should increase the price for it - even if your overall occupancy is low. 

Implement Revenue Management Strategies:

One strategy employed by real estate investment trusts (REITs) is increasing rent for existing customers periodically. By incrementally raising rental rates every few months, you can generate additional revenue without significantly impacting tenant satisfaction. For example, you can raise the rents of a new facility you acquire for all customers after 5 to 10 months. Aim for a 5% to 15% increase or an amount that brings them to market rent. Some customers may move out but overall your revenue should increase. There are great tools to manage this process. Make sure to communicate these changes to your customers transparently.

Improve the Appearance and Security of the Facility:

Investing in the physical appearance and security of your self-storage facility can increase its value by attracting higher-paying tenants. Consider repainting the exterior, repaving, adding new lighting, enhancing security measures, and installing a gated entry system. These improvements can justify increased rental rates and bolster your facility's reputation and street appearance.

Market Your Facility Locally:

Maximize your facility's exposure by utilizing targeted marketing strategies. Invest in better signage that clearly communicates your services, and consider using Google Ads to reach potential customers within a 3 to 5-mile radius of your facility. By focusing on local customers, you can efficiently allocate your marketing budget and increase occupancy rates.

Audit and Reduce Expenses:

Regularly reviewing your facility's expenses can uncover opportunities for cost reduction. Real estate taxes and management fees are typically the largest expenses for self-storage facilities, so focus on optimizing these costs first. Consider negotiating with your property tax assessor and exploring more cost-effective management solutions. Go through every expense over the last 12 months and try to find ways to reduce or remove unnecessary costs without cutting on essential repairs and maintenance. 

Implement Better Management Software and Processes:

Efficient management of your self-storage facility is crucial for maximizing its value. Invest in robust management software that can streamline operations, manage tenant information, and automate billing. Additionally, establish clear processes and procedures for tasks such as unit maintenance, customer service, and delinquent payments.

Leverage Technology to Enhance Facility Operations:

Embracing technology can significantly improve the efficiency of your self-storage facility. For example, remote gate opening systems allow tenants to access the facility using their smartphones, reducing the need for on-site staff. Explore other technology solutions that can minimize overhead costs and enhance the customer experience.

Expand the Asset:

If your facility has available land or unused space, consider expanding to increase your rental capacity. Adding an extra 30,000 square feet, for example, can substantially boost cash flow and value. Before undertaking an expansion project, conduct a feasibility study to assess the potential return on investment and ensure it aligns with your business goals.

Offer Promotions and Discounts to Increase Occupancy:

Attracting new tenants is essential for maximizing the value of your self-storage facility. Offering promotions and discounts can entice potential customers and increase occupancy rates. Once these new tenants are settled in, gradually raise their rents in line with market rates to optimize your revenue.

Conclusion:

By implementing the strategies outlined in this blog post, you can significantly increase the value of your self-storage facility. Remember to adjust your rental rates to market levels, improve your facility's appearance and security, market your facility locally, reduce expenses, utilize technology, expand your asset, and offer promotions to attract new tenants. With careful planning and execution, these tactics can help you maximize the potential of your self-storage investment and generate impressive returns.

Remember, the key to success in the self-storage industry lies in continuous improvement and adaptation to market trends. Stay informed about the latest advancements and strategies, and be prepared to adjust your approach as needed. By doing so, you can ensure the long-term success and growth of your self-storage facility, ultimately boosting its value and your return on investment.

By Jeremiah Boucher

Jeremiah Boucher, a self-storage industry expert, has rapidly built an impressive 1.5 million square foot portfolio consisting of 61 properties in just 7 years. Specializing in suburban and exurban properties, he has successfully navigated the market by purchasing directly from original mom-and-pop owners. Jeremiah provides valuable insights, lessons learned, and strategies for finding and financing deals, providing invaluable guidance for those interested in exploring the lucrative self-storage sector.