Storage unit market research

[David Abarca]

I am moving along with market research on storage units in my town.  My father and I have decided to invest in building storage units on some vacant land that he purchased many years ago.  In order for us to move forward we are looking into how to do the research on storage units in our area.  I already know some of the basics like traffic on the road the land is located on and people within a given radius.  Population and demographics are also readily available.  

Some of the things I am wondering are, how many units are in the area?  I would assume I can't just call and ask.  Would they really be that forthcoming with the information?  How many units should be built?  How many boats/ RV's in the area?  

What are some of the other questions I should find the answers to and how to find them?  Any help would be fantastic, thanks in advance.