In the dynamic landscape of commercial real estate, investors have many options. However, self storage investing is becoming particularly attractive. As urbanization spreads and living spaces shrink, the demand for this type of business will grow. It is an often-overlooked sector, but one with great potential. This post will explore the basics of self storage investments.

The Basics of Self Storage Investing

In commercial real estate, self storage refers to properties that offer storage space individuals and businesses can rent. For example, a family might need to store some possessions between moving from one home to another. Some people or businesses might enter into long-term monthly contracts to store possessions or assets. Either way, the facility generates revenue by charging storage fees to clients.

You can find various types of self storage facilities within the industry. There are also storage businesses that may cater to different types of clients.

Types of Self Storage

Self storage is a diverse industry. That means there may be various types of self storage facilities for investing. The following are some of the types of self storage businesses:

• Drive-Up Storage: Drive-up storage represents the most common type of self storage facility. The facility will have long rows of storage units clients can access outdoors. This design allows clients to drive vehicles up to the unit. They have large roll-up doors and are great for loading and unloading directly from a vehicle.
• Indoor Storage: Indoor self storage is another common option. However, you can’t drive your vehicle up to the storage unit. Instead, it is a large building with dozens or hundreds of storage units inside. Many or all of the units may have large roll-up doors like drive-up storage facilities. Indoor storage might also contain smaller walk-in units and storage lockers.
• Climate Control Storage: Some people or businesses may need to store items or materials that are sensitive to climate conditions. In that case, climate-controlled storage is a good solution. In these facilities, the staff manage factors like temperature and humidity to protect the items.
• Vehicle Storage: People or businesses may have extra vehicles they need to keep in storage. Vehicle storage offers secure units to house antique cars, boats, and recreational vehicles. The facilities can also provide various solutions to protect the vehicles from the elements and other conditions.
• Business Storage: Some facilities focus on serving various businesses. It could be moving companies that need secure storage for their clients between moves. Some retailers might need storage to hold seasonal inventory during the off-season. Construction companies might need to store equipment and materials.

These are just some of the more common types of self storage businesses. You may also find specialty storage facilities or ones offering various storage options.

Are you interested in self storage investing in the Columbus, GA, area? Click here to contact The Cummings Commercial Team. We are local CRE experts ready to help you achieve your investing goals.

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