All Forum Posts by: Brad L.

I own a self-storage facility, and demand for storage for cars is definitely through the roof-especially through the winter here in Wisconsin. While I don't have any advice for you pitching the idea for funding, purchased mine with seller financing, I had the following thought: While focusing on the car enthusiast niche is a good idea backed by tons of demand, I worry that your facility would be a bigger target for criminal activity if it's labeled as a car storage facility. You see, at my facility, a unit could contain a car or it could contain 500 lbs of junk; nobody knows. At a car enthusiast storage facility, each unit would have a very high perceived value, potentially giving criminals the idea that their golden ticket can be found behind any door. Probably just paranoia, but that's the first thing I thought of after reading your post.

Simplicity + receiving rent before the mortgage payment is due. Having a self-storage facility, I can't imagine trying to keep track of 45 rent checks all due on different days. That wouldn't end well

I invest in the little things, like what you mentioned, to attract and keep a higher-quality tenant

I think a lot of it depends on demographics. What are the area and its people like? For example, where I live, people support small local businesses with a "face." In a more populated area like New York City, people may prefer to deal with a "more professional" company.

All rent checks are mailed to my PO box, and I don't see myself ever switching to online payments. No fees, no concern over cyber crime, just simple. Currently collecting rent from a duplex (2 checks monthly) and a self-storage facility (42 checks monthly).

Currently own & manage 1 duplex and a self-storage facility. Been making offers (5+) on SFH and duplexes over the past 3 months, with no luck. Hoping to land our next property soon.

As long as they pay their rent every month, this is a good thing. Just means they'll have to continue renting

Property tax records give you the information you need to find and contact the owner of a property. For example, this is the website for my county: http://www.co.manitowoc.wi.us/taxquery/main.htm

@JD Martin Very good to know, thank you.

@JD Martin Thank you for the input. Is there a number or percentage that's typically used as a placeholder for vacancy, maintenance & capital expenses when running numbers–is there an industry-wide standard?