All Forum Posts by: Vlad Kolbas

Hi Ronald, we do have power but have not setup internet access at any of the locations yet. Some of the internet would need to be cellular based. We could do Wi-Fi or PoE. Have looked at Wyze v3 cameras. They are fairly inexpensive just not sure if they are right for the application.

Looking for some advice on selecting inexpensive security cameras for our small self-storage locations (from 45 units up to 130 units). Trying to keep the initial cost as well as ongoing monthly costs as low as possible since these locations do not generate a lot of revenue.

We have seen an increase in break ins and theft of catalytic converters so trying to increase security (or at least perceived increase in security).

Thank you!

Thank you!

Henry, who is your broker or insurance company that you use, if you don't mind me asking? Thanks.

I've been using line2.com for 5 years now and it works really well. I am still on their old plan at $99.50 per year but their newer plans are more expensive. openphone.co looks like a really good new service at only $10 per month.

Thanks @Henry Clark. Did water seep inside of the containers so you had to power wash them inside or are they totally water tight?

Thanks for great information Henry! We got hit by the same flood at our location in Percival, IA, and still recovering from it ☹

Did you get any water in those units during the flood? Do you have them anchored or free standing? Did they move at all during the flood?

@Heath Jones, we have purchased 3 "mom and pop" properties so far and my banker did an in-house appraisal for all 3. He structured one purchase into 3 separate notes to keep each one under $250,000 so no commercial appraisal would be needed. I provided him with detailed financials based on at least last two years, future projections and pictures of all the buildings. All my notes are at 80% of purchase price. He has done in-house appraisals for all my rental property purchases as well.

Another option would be to use portable storage containers. They are easy to assemble and you can be in business very quickly. Also can be resold/rented if you decide to do something else with the space.

Here are a couple of manufacturers https://www.boscontainer.com/ https://www.universalstoragecontainers.com/

@Erin K. I would recommend that you check out web based software that is specific to operating self-storage facilities. We use Easy Storage Solutions for day to day operations but there are many other good options. We use QB for overall financials and don't track each unit or each customer.