Managing a self-storage site takes a great deal of know-how and skill, particularly in today’s sophisticated markets. Thanks to competition, a more demanding customer base and technological tools, facility operation is increasingly complex. For this reason, many owners and operators are considering third-party and automated management options. This book serves as a guide to fee-based management: why to use it, what you should get, what it costs and more. It also highlights a few remote-management methods for those interested in running unmanned sites.

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With mainstream media and juries nationwide sympathizing with tenants who lose their goods to lien sale, it’s more important than ever to protect your self-storage business. In addition to a sound rental agreement, you’ll need to ensure you follow state statutes to the letter and follow a rigorous course of action when it comes to the sale. You’ll also want to purchase appropriate insurance, including specialized coverage tailored to this business. This e-book outlines the critical components of the lien sale, addresses the basics of handling a lawsuit, and explains the unique risks involved in running storage facilities. You’ll also read about the benefits of offering tenant insurance and tips for keeping out of legal trouble.

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Even with the volatility of the 2008 real estate market, self-storage is still a good investment. Need a primer on common real estate vocabulary and tips for self-storage buying and valuation? Then this e-book is for you! You’ll get a comprehensive glossary of terms and an overview of the sales process. You’ll also read detailed info on determining facility value and pointers for choosing the best real estate representation. A good place to start before you go hunting for properties!

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When it comes to operating a successful storage business, you cannot under emphasize the importance of facility staff. And the search for quality team members gets tougher as competition increases. You need to find the right employees, train them and ensure you keep them for the long haul. This book provides tips for navigating the hiring process, including insights for recruiting and interviewing. It also address methods for training, incentive and benefit programs, and how to assess employee performance.

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All self-storage owners, developers and investors have one thing in common: they need money to get started in the business! Before you begin your financing adventure, make sure you understand the lending options available. This book outlines the most common self-storage loan types and walks you through the creation of a successful loan-package request. Know these basics before entering the financial process, and you’ll be in the money!

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Self-storage operators around the country are realizing the phenomenal profit potential of offering boat and RV storage on their sites. The rise in recreational-vehicle ownership and use combined with tightened municipal codes in residential communities has bolstered the demand for this ancillary product. Providing boat/RV storage and related services at your facility can help you build market share and customer confidence. This book covers the basics: construction, storage types, marketing, sales and legal issues. It also answers operational questions that will keep you cruising toward profit!

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Interested in the basics regarding self-storage building? This informative e-book covers essentials including site design and unit mix and choosing a construction contractor. It also addresses specific project components—roofing, hallway systems, doors and climate control—as well as how to choose and maintain them.

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Every self-storage site requires maintenance, whether it’s old or new, old-school or high-tech. Your buildings, landscaping, security equipment, pavement, office décor, etc., are all essential components of your curb and tenant appeal. But how do you keep on top of all the related upkeep? This e-book provides handy organizational tips for ensuring your facility stays in top form. You’ll also read about preventive and ongoing maintenance for doors, roofs, computers and more.

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Self-storage operation and management is continually being streamlined and simplified by new technological tools. From software and kiosks to electronic locks and websites, technology is changing the way facilities do business. This e-book shares ways to promote your facility online, provides pointers for choosing a management program, highlights web-based software options and more. Learn what you need to keep competitive in a hi-tech world!

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You’ve invested substantial time, money and energy into your self-storage project. Now, how are you going to ensure it stays protected from liability? The two key ingredients are a sound, well-composed rental agreement and complete insurance coverage. This e-book will get you started in learning about these complex industry topics. You’ll read about essential lease components and how to successfully make changes to clauses. You’ll also get an overview of specialized insurance coverages for the storage business and tips on working with an agent. 

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Interested in buying a self-storage property but not sure where to start or what to look for? Would you like to know more about the process of due diligence? Are you a current owner wondering when and if you should sell? This book addresses the state of self-storage real estate, covering the basics for facility buyers and essential considerations for sellers. Be prepared before you enter this hot market!

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There's a lot more to promoting a self-storage facility than Yellow Pages or even a website, but not all managers have been trained to make the most of marketing. Today's site employees have to know about strategies such as direct mail, special events, public relations, display collaterals and more. This valuable e-book provides insights to assessing your marketing program, identifying your target market, avoiding common marketing mistakes and other hot topics.

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It's true that self-storage requires little manpower to operate, but the position of manager is not a low-level, simple job. Especially in today's competitive markets, the strength of a site's employees can tip to the balance toward success or failure. This e-book discusses how to hire the right people, train them appropriately, evaluate their performance, motivate them and keep them around. It's a perfect read if you're in charge of staffing a facility or a manager who needs to know the requirements to make the grade!

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One of the first steps you must take when launching a self-storage business is to secure financing. Even if you're an existing owner, it's in your best interest to continually explore options regarding interest rates, refinancing, equity and more. This free e-book addresses self-storage loan types and lending options. It also answers some common finance questions and explains how to put together a solid loan request, fund an acquisition, and assemble a solid real estate transaction. Get tips from industry experts that will help you get the money you need in hand!

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In a competitive self-storage environment, it's the extras that count. Modern-day operators are exploring a wide range of service and profit-making options. Tried-and-true ancillaries always top the charts: retail sales, boat and RV storage, wine storage, records storage, truck rentals and more. But new contenders—such as business services, post and parcel, and mobile storage—have also entered the scene.

Have you sufficiently investigated your ancillary options? Read more in this free e-book, an informative collection articles written by experts in the field.

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