How to Turn a Mismanaged Storage Facility into a High-Performing Asset

Some facilities seem to have it all—great location, good unit mix, strong market demand—and yet they still underperform. After lease up, occupancy stalls and net operating income (NOI) stagnates. More often than not, the issue isn’t the facility itself; it’s the management approach. This could manifest as inconsistent operations, outdated processes, poor tenant communication, lackluster marketing, or all of the above If left untreated, mismanagement can quietly erode your asset’s value and performance. But there is good news. A mismanaged facility can be transformed into a high-performing, revenue-generating asset with…

Superior Capital Advisors Welcomes Matt Porter as Managing Broker Covering MS, TN, AR, LA, and AL

Superior Capital Advisors (SCA), a leading investment advisory firm exclusively focused on the self-storage sector, is proud to announce that Matt Porter has joined the team as Managing Broker in the firm’s new Oxford, MS office. Matt will represent clients across Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Alabama, expanding SCA’s presence and strategic reach in the Southeastern U.S. With over five years of experience and a proven track record in the self-storage industry, Matt has successfully brokered 42 transactions totaling more than 1.2 million net rentable square feet. His deep knowledge…

Sentry Self Storage Management Takes Over Management of Your Extra Storage (YES) Portfolio in Knoxville, TN

Sentry Self Storage Management, based out of Coral Springs, FL., is pleased to announce it has officially assumed management responsibilities for the Your Extra Storage (YES) portfolio, encompassing three self-storage properties in Knoxville, Tennessee. These locations bring 1,300 units and 170k net rentable square feet to Sentry’s management platform. This new partnership marks the expansion of Sentry Self Storage Management’s footprint into the thriving Knoxville market. The YES portfolio is well-regarded for its convenient locations and quality storage solutions, making it a valuable addition to Sentry’s managed properties. “We are…

How Much Revenue Do Self Storage Facilities Lose From Missed Calls?

58% of people will rent from the first self-storage facility that they call, according to SSA’s 2023 Self Storage Demand Study. Even in a digital-first world, there will always be a segment of tenants who want to speak to a real person on the phone. Consequently, operators who consistently pick up the phone have a better chance of closing more leads and raking in more revenue. But it’s almost impossible to maintain a high pick-up rate if you’re relying on a single site manager. One person simply can’t respond to…

Conviction Beats Perfection

A lot has changed over the last 12 months, and we are starting to see “green shoots” as the bottom of the market is hopefully near. Factors impacting much of the U.S. economy are evident in the self-storage industry, which produced modest rent growth in July 2025 according to data compiled by Yardi Matrix, but also a slower-than-anticipated rental season, much to the disappointment of many industry insiders. After a white-hot listing market in April and May, new listings seemed to slow down in June and July. Meanwhile, Argus closings…

Self-Storage Financing Options in Today’s Market

Since the run-up in interest rates began in 2022, understanding the complete opportunity set of commercial real estate mortgage loan types available to self-storage investors has never been more important. CMBS In order to remain competitive in a higher interest rate environment, CMBS issuers have modified their underwriting criteria. Most borrowers opt for 5-year fixed-rate loans with full-term interest-only payments. The advantage of this execution is that CMBS issuers are willing to underwrite to a minimum debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) utilizing interest-only debt service payments rather than a mortgage…

Beyond Rent: Boosting Self-Storage Sales and Profitability

While rent is the primary revenue driver, self-storage owners can significantly increase sales and profitability by strategically implementing a variety of strategies focusing on value-added services, optimizing operations, marketing, and enhancing the customer experience. Here’s a breakdown of key areas to focus on: 1. Ancillary Services and Retail Sales Offer tenant insurance or protection plans: This provides a valuable service to tenants while generating commissions for the facility. Many renters aren’t aware that their homeowners’ or renters’ insurance may not fully cover stored items, making this a crucial offering. Tenant protection…

5 Questions With… Janus International

  How are smart locks reshaping security — and ROI — in self-storage? In this episode of 5 Questions With, John Bilton from Janus International breaks down the latest trends in facility break-ins, the role of smart technology in boosting security, and how operators can see real returns from investing in tools like Nokē Smart Entry. If you’re wondering whether today’s customers expect smarter, safer storage — or how tech impacts occupancy and revenue — don’t miss this one. Bonus: Janus International will be exhibiting at the upcoming SSA Fall…

5 Low-Cost Upgrades That Increase Facility Value Before Sale

  By David Perlleshi & Frank DeSalvo When preparing your self-storage facility for sale, strategic improvements can make a big difference in attracting serious buyers and maximizing your final sale price. The good news? You don’t need a massive renovation budget to make an impact. Small, smart upgrades, if chosen well, often deliver the biggest return. Here are five low-cost enhancements we recommend before bringing a property to market: 1. Enhance Curb Appeal First impressions still matter. Trim back overgrown landscaping, lay down fresh mulch, and remove any clutter around…

10 Warning Signs a Tenant is Living in Your Self-Storage Facility

  Living in a Self-Storage unit is illegal in most areas and poses serious safety and liability risks for facility owners. Unfortunately, it’s an issue that many operators face at some point. The good news? By spotting the warning signs early, you can prevent a small problem from becoming a costly legal mess. Here are 10 signs that a tenant might be secretly living at your facility — and what to watch for: 1. Unusual hours of access If you notice a tenant consistently accessing their unit late at night…