The Hidden Downsides of First-Month Free Promos

First-month free promotions are everywhere in the self storage industry. From nation-wide storage companies to independent operators, facilities rely on this promotion strategy to fill units fast. And for good reason—the words “first month free” catch attention, drive clicks, and get new customers in the door. In the short term, it works. But is it really worth it in the long run? That’s where things get complicated. While first-month free (FMF) promos can be a powerful customer acquisition tool, they come with hidden costs that can chip away at your…

Real Estate Opportunity Zones: What They Are & Why You Should Invest

In recent years, Opportunity Zones have become one of the most talked-about strategies in real estate investing. Designed by the U.S. government to encourage investment in underserved communities, these zones offer investors a unique chance to not only grow wealth but also create positive community impact. So, what exactly are Opportunity Zones—and why should you consider adding them to your portfolio? Let’s break it down. What Are Opportunity Zones? Opportunity Zones are geographic areas designated by the federal government to encourage long-term investment and economic development in distressed communities. When…

5 Ways to See a Quick Payoff with Your Renovations

If you’ve been taking a wait-and-see approach to costly renovations or repairs this year, it’s not too late to get started with the right strategies—and by acting now you can see a big payoff. In fact, recent changes to the federal tax code and bonus depreciation offer significant tax savings for property owners who invest in improvements. Check out “The Complete Guide to Self-Storage Renovations and Cost Segregation” to find out what that means for you, including next steps for estimating potential savings. You’ll find that many products and services…

Smarter Listings Start with Better Data: How StorTrack Helps You Win Deals

In a market where smarter decisions mean faster deals, StorTrack’s latest Explorer features give brokers and sellers an edge. From understanding where the demand is highest with Traffic Data, to assessing risk upfront with FEMA Risk Zones, and identifying hidden value in Economic Opportunity Zones—Explorer now brings sharper insights that help you market, price, and position listings more strategically. Whether you’re pitching a deal or advising a client, these tools put powerful, real-world data at your fingertips. Why Traffic Data Matters In today’s competitive market, accurate visibility into consumer demand…

The Hidden Downsides of First-Month Free Promos

First-month free promotions are everywhere in the self storage industry. From nation-wide storage companies to independent operators, facilities rely on this promotion strategy to fill units fast. And for good reason—the words “first month free” catch attention, drive clicks, and get new customers in the door. In the short term, it works. But is it really worth it in the long run? That’s where things get complicated. While first-month free (FMF) promos can be a powerful customer acquisition tool, they come with hidden costs that can chip away at your…

Common Pitfalls in DIY Facility Management And How to Fix Them

At first glance, managing a self-storage facility looks easy. Four walls, roll-up doors, and some locks, what could go wrong? Plenty. We’ve brokered countless deals and seen too many promising properties underperform, not because of bad locations but because of avoidable management mistakes. Here are the most common pitfalls in DIY self-storage management and how to fix them before they drain your NOI. 1. Static Pricing The Pitfall: Setting rental rates once and forgetting them. Meanwhile, demand shifts, competitors adjust, and your revenue falls behind. The Fix: Think like airlines.…

5 Essential Tips for Selling Your Self-Storage Facility

Selling a self-storage facility is a major decision. For many owners, it represents years of hard work and investment, so naturally, the goal is to sell at the right time and for the best possible return. Whether you are preparing for retirement, looking to reposition your portfolio, or simply ready to move on to a new opportunity, approaching the process strategically will make all the difference. Here are five essential tips to help you maximize value and avoid common pitfalls when selling your self-storage property. 1. Understand and Organize Your…

How to Know When It’s Time to Sell Your Storage Facility

Selling a self-storage facility is one of the most important financial decisions an owner can make. Unlike day-to-day operational choices, the decision to sell shapes the long-term return on years of effort, capital, and risk. The timing has to balance both the numbers and the narrative: how your property is performing today, what the market is signaling for tomorrow, and where you are personally in your investment journey. Some owners sell to capture peak pricing, others to avoid looming capital expenses, and many simply because it fits their broader financial…

Sentry Self Storage Management Announces New Lake Worth Location

Sentry Self Storage Management is excited to announce the grand opening of its newest facility, Sentry Self Storage Lake Worth. Located at a prime spot in the heart of Lake Worth, this state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of secure and convenient storage solutions for residents and businesses in the area. Sentry Self Storage Lake Worth offers a range of unit sizes, climate-controlled options, advanced security features, including 24/7 surveillance, and convenient access to ensure a seamless storage experience. “We are thrilled to expand our presence in South Florida with…

Time To Look Sharp!

The physical condition of a self-storage property significantly impacts both rental rates and occupancy by directly influencing customer perception of security, value, and quality. Facilities that are clean, well-lit, well-maintained, and modern can command higher rents and attract more tenants, while neglected properties must often lower prices to compete. In today’s hyper-competitive world, it is mission-critical to maintain or improve a facility’s physical condition. Impact on rental rates Higher rent prices: A well-maintained property with strong curb appeal can justify charging premium rental rates. Visible care of the facility signals…