Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

Here are some details, benefits, and specials about my premier training program, the Self-Storage Bootcamp.

Watch this short video to see if this is for you. For more details and to register, please click here.

https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2026-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

To schedule a call with me to see if it is right for you, here is the link:

https://markhelmcoachingcallschedule.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?notembedded=1

Now is the time to take action if you want to get into, or grow, your self-storage business in 2026.

For information...

I hesitated to make this video. I don’t want to sound alarmist or like I am trying to scare people.

I’ve seen multiple market cycles over the years. But what I believe is approaching now is very different from anything we’ve seen before.

Let’s talk about how what I see coming could impact you, your life, and your self-storage business.

For information of the Upcoming Bootcamp: Bootcamp https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2026-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

**Q1 2026 Virtual Self Storage Bootcamp Sign Up** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2026-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

**Self...

I was glad to see Ron Matejko’s article online about the Slate article on self-storage pricing tactics.

I read the same article. Ron is an associate editor for Inside Self Storage.

Let’s go over what is coming down the pike and how we are addressing it in the upcoming Self Storage Bootcamp in Jan. 2026.

**Q1 2026 Virtual Self Storage Bootcamp Sign Up** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2026-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

**Self-Storage Turnaround Playbook** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-476-four-steps-i-use-to-revive-a-self-storage-facility-non-fb/

**Startup Checklist** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-475-self-storage-startup-checklist-4-steps-owners-miss/

**Cap...

A friend of mine was telling me about an experiment that was conducted in the 1950s using rats the other day. I did some research and was absolutely fascinated by what I learned from it.

Let me share it with you and some of the takeaways I think may be applicable to us in the self-storage business.

**Self-Storage Turnaround Playbook** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-476-four-steps-i-use-to-revive-a-self-storage-facility-non-fb/

**Startup Checklist** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-475-self-storage-startup-checklist-4-steps-owners-miss/

**Cap Rate, ROI & IRR Calculator** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode_472_cap-roi-irr-worksheet-2/

**The 4 Critical Metrics...

Happy Thanksgiving – A Short History

**Self-Storage Turnaround Playbook** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-476-four-steps-i-use-to-revive-a-self-storage-facility-non-fb/

**Startup Checklist** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-475-self-storage-startup-checklist-4-steps-owners-miss/

**Cap Rate, ROI & IRR Calculator** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode_472_cap-roi-irr-worksheet-2/

**The 4 Critical Metrics Download** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-474-4-critical-metrics/

**Five Mistakes PDF* https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-473-5-mistakes-new-owners-make-in-self-storage/

**Q1 2026 Virtual Self Storage Bootcamp Sign Up** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2026-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

**December 6, 2025 Fast-Track Your Self-Storage Success — Free Live Webinar** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2025-q4-webinar/

**Cap Rate...

Let me introduce you to Rich Porter. Rich has probably systemized his systems for searching for self-storage opportunities better than anyone I know.

He will show you in this episode what he does. He will also share his contact information in the event you want him to do this on your behalf or get on his email list to look at deals he finds.

For those of you that want to set your own prospecting systems up, Rich generously shares what he does, and you can take however much of it you want and set...

One of the best things about owning investment real estate is the tax advantages it offers. Especially self-storage.

Let’s discuss some of the benefits today.

Given the high cost of construction and the current interest rates, a clear and well-understood tax strategy could be the difference between a go/no-go on certain deals.

**Self-Storage Turnaround Playbook** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-476-four-steps-i-use-to-revive-a-self-storage-facility-non-fb/

**Startup Checklist** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-475-self-storage-startup-checklist-4-steps-owners-miss/

**Cap Rate, ROI & IRR Calculator** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode_472_cap-roi-irr-worksheet-2/

**The 4 Critical Metrics Download** ht...

So if you are getting into the self-storage business, or if you have found a deal you are excited about, congratulations. But what if you don’t have enough to fund the down payment? You may be asking, how can I raise money to do this deal?

Well, basically, you have two main ways to go:

Partners with money

Investors with money

Let’s explore each of these approaches.

**Self-Storage Turnaround Playbook** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-476-four-steps-i-use-to-revive-a-self-storage-facility-non-fb/

**Startup Checklist** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-475-self-storage-startup-checklist-4-steps-owners-miss/

When I first got started in the self-storage business, you could realistically get in the game with as little as 10 % to 15% down if you used SBA financing.

How much does it take today?

What is affecting how much money it takes to get into the self-storage business today?

What strategies can we use to help us?

Let’s discuss all that and more.

**Self-Storage Turnaround Playbook** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-476-four-steps-i-use-to-revive-a-self-storage-facility-non-fb/

**Startup Checklist** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-475-self-storage-startup-checklist-4-steps-owners-miss/

**Cap Rate, ROI & IRR Ca...

Every now and then, one can find an existing self-storage facility with a lot of potential upside and be able to negotiate a price that allows you to realize it.

But you need to be able to see it when it is there and know what your upside can be to negotiate it correctly.

You also need a plan, a step-by-step process to harvest the upside.

Let me share with you the four steps I took in one project and the upside we realized.

If you are interested in a download...

If you are getting into the self-storage business, or restarting in the business, here is a checklist and where I start with the people I work with.

My experience is if you start here, your chances of success are much improved.

You can also download the checklist below after watching this video.

This is a great business, but your success is not guaranteed. This work greatly improves your chances.

**Startup Checklist** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-475-self-storage-startup-checklist-4-steps-owners-miss/

**The 4 Critical Metrics Download** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-474-4-critical-metrics/<...

There are four basic metrics I think every self-storage owner should be tracking.

I track more than these four, but these four, I think, set an owner up to win at owning self-storage.

If you are not currently always tracking these to the point you know them off the top of your head, or at least get to them fast, I promise you, there is gold to mine in your facility.

Let’s explore them together, and there is a download if you want it.

**The 4 Critical Metrics Download** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lp...

Let’s talk about five mistakes see people making getting in the self-storage business today, especially people new to the business. Now I have made every one of them myself, so I will talk from experience.

Let’s shorten your learning curve up.

Here is a downloadable handout.

**Five Mistakes PDF* https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/episode-473-5-mistakes-new-owners-make-in-self-storage/

**Q1 2026 Virtual Self Storage Bootcamp Sign Up** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2026-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

**December 6, 2025 Fast-Track Your Self-Storage Success — Free Live Webinar** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2025-q4-webinar/

**Cap Rate, ROI...

Even seasoned storage people sometimes get focused on the wrong metric when analyzing self-storage. If you’re new to self-storage, it can be hard to understand all the financial metric slang and acronyms, and what one should really be focused on.

Which one matters most?

In this episode, we will peel back the facade and make these financial metrics understandable and give you access to using them powerfully as you move forward in your self-storage journey.

There is also a downloadable Excel worksheet available for free, which includes these metrics formulas already in pl...

Last week we started a conversation about what I’m seeing in the economy, what may be coming next, and how that changes our self-storage strategy, based on research I dug into after hearing Michael Litt speak. As a CCIM in commercial real estate, our state chapter hosted Litt on “The Big Short.” If you remember the 2015 movie by the same name, it dramatized (and abbreviated) what his hedge fund did during the 2008 recession.

Last Week’s Episode. https://youtu.be/QAMZsyZCPx0

This week we will look at the impact of the tax bill, good and bad...

Some dots have connected in my mind recently that are reshaping how I evaluate self-storage trade areas moving forward. Surprisingly, this insight came from digging into the lives and current work of the people who shorted subprime financial instruments during the Great Recession—and what they’re focused on today.

I also re-learned an important truth when designing my self-storage and investment strategies: don’t follow the news, the politics, or the politicians—follow the money. See where it’s going. That points in a much clearer direction.

Next week, I’ll share where it appears the...

Let’s talk about the biggest issue I see today in leasing up new self-storage space is overspending for online marketing that doesn’t produce results.

I see it happen far too often and have experienced it myself.

Here are the steps, spaces, and things I put my attention on as I work with vendors and/or employees to design and execute a marketing strategy and budget that works.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts**

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top...

Let’s talk about converting potential self-storage renters into customers.

I had this conversation last Friday in our Inner Circle group and thought it may be good to discuss it in more depth in this episode.

This is probably the most powerful tool our team has ever used to rent units.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts**

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.fa...

Let’s talk about the new tax implications for self-storage owners and take a look at the good, the bad, and the potentially ugly parts of the massive tax bill recently signed into law and championed by the current administration, at least from my perspective.

I am only going to touch on a few items that I think most directly impact us as self storage owner/operators.

I’m doing this because I have changed a few things in underwriting and planning for the next couple of years in capital improvements. Let me share.

...

We are going to have to talk about insurance and self-storage, which may touch on politics.

Part of our job as owners and entrepreneurs is to look at what is going on now, extrapolate some data, and then make predictions about the future to some degree so we can make moves today.

And in my opinion, it doesn’t look good for insuring self-storage projects. In fact, it looks ugly.

So let me ask you a question in this episode, a philosophically political question.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://Th...

Let’s discuss what features, what tech bells and whistles to add to your new facility or one you may be purchasing.

I approach this differently than I did a few years ago.

Let me explain.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts**

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

**The Storage World Analyzer** ht...

Let me share what I’ve gathered about the state of the self-storage industry halfway through 2025. This is based on the latest Yardi Matrix data, Radius insights, REIT shareholder reports, and—just as importantly—my own observations and experience in the trenches.

I will also share with you my insights on what to focus on and not focus on for the next 12 to 18 months or so.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts**

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog...

We all know the usual add-ons for self-storage projects by now, like tenant insurance, retail items, and truck rental.

Let’s discuss some new possibilities for the modern project today. These are just a few outside-the-box ideas that could generate extra revenue that makes a big difference today in our projects.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts**

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/ma...

Last week, we started a conversation about how to organize a management operation for your small, automated self-storage facility. This week, we’ll wrap it up. If you missed Part 1, here is a link:

Let’s finish this week and discuss how, as a small Owner, you can set up a successful Marketing Division of your automated management operations and what that can include.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts**

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Cr...

Recently, I’ve been working closely with several people who are either purchasing or developing automated self-storage facilities. Naturally, the conversation quickly turns to one thing: how are we going to manage them?

I am also reinventing how I will manage properties I am involved with, both through automation and with managers.

Let’s talk about how to set up your automated self-storage operations, or at least what we are doing. This is the first of a two-part series designed for smaller owners/operators who want to take over running their facilities from third-party management comp...

Two weeks ago, we began a series outlining the five phases our construction company uses when developing self-storage projects in today’s unpredictable environment. This is the same process we use ourselves—and you can use it too, especially if you’re doing a solo project.

The goal of this series is simple: to bring a development, expansion, or conversion project to the finish line in a way that actually pencils out—despite current interest rates, material costs, and labor challenges.

If you haven’t seen the first two parts of the series, you can catch on...

Last week, we started a series outlining what our construction company uses as a general outline for developing self-storage projects in today’s uncertain world.

This series aims to bring in a development project, or an expansion or conversion, in a manner that actually pencils out financially with current interest rates, material cost, and labor cost. It is a process you can use yourself if you choose to.

If you did not watch or read last week’s episode, start there. What we covered were the first two phases and, in many ways, the most impo...

Given the continued high cost of existing self-storage facilities for sale and the challenges of getting into the business, let’s discuss the development steps for smaller investors.

Or at least my take on the development process for the smaller player in the space. This has evolved over the years and was further refined and improved on by my construction partner, Smitty Smith of Resolve Self Storage Construction.

I have divided the process up into five sections, or spaces to move through.

Over the next three episodes, we will explore each one in mo...

The Inside Self Storage Expo 2025 is coming up next week in Las Vegas, and I’ll be there.

I make it a point to attend at least one self-storage convention a year to stay sharp—tracking trends, seeing new products, and deepening relationships in the industry. Events like these are essential if you’re in or entering the self-storage business.

But today, I want to talk about something most people overlook: Breakthroughs in business often come from outside your industry.

Let me share with you where most of the biggest leaps in my self-s...

Let’s talk about charity work and your self-storage business.

As business owners—especially those of us making a living in a particular trade area, city, or region—I believe we owe something back. We should contribute in some way as good corporate neighbors.

Let’s discuss some different approaches to this today.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating...

I hate to say I told you so… but… I told you so.

This headline popped up in my news feed dashboard: “California Senate Bill 709 Seeks To Limit Self Storage Rent Increases.”

Let’s discuss Rent Increase Regulations that are starting to happen and put them into perspective.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Fa...

In episode 451, we discussed how uncertainty in Washington, combined with mixed economic signals, is causing some investors to sit on the sidelines. But for those who can make quick decisions and move fast, this could create a window of opportunity.

One thing I can almost guarantee, though, is that construction costs are not going down.

With new tariffs (why are we doing this?) and immigration policies restricting labor availability, construction costs are only going to rise.

Let me share with you how we are adjusting to that.

**Online Courses at The...

I am hosting a virtual online Bootcamp in March on the 21st & 22nd and have been revising some of my content for the event.

This is the second episode of three, where I will be sharing some of the things I am going to be bringing up that I haven’t necessarily focused on in the past.

I will step out a little today and have a political conversation that is not designed to be a political statement but points to something that may affect smaller self-storage players like me and probably you.

Re...

I am hosting a virtual online Bootcamp in March on the 21st & 22nd, 2025, and I have been revising some of my content for the event.

I thought I would do a couple of episodes sharing some of the things I am going to be bringing up that I haven’t necessarily focused on in the past.

This is a simple idea that I have seen help people gain momentum in an industry that is maturing fast.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.ap...

The last three episodes have covered my deep dive into the previous 35 to 40 years into exploring how creating goals and achieving them can work.

Let’s talk about one of my most crazy experiences in this world of creating a self-storage business and what it can look like on the court.

This transaction changed my life and taught me how putting my attention on the correct things can work.

Let me tell you a story…

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podc...

If you are in the self-storage business and trying to grow it, or if you have been trying to get in the business and it has been slow-going, then this episode may be for you.

But I will take a very different approach than most in the next couple of episodes concerning how to get the most out of this year (or any year for that matter) for your business.

This episode concludes a 3-part series with the steps that I have learned to make a difference in having the goals we create in 2025 in...

If you are in the self-storage business and trying to grow it, or if you have been trying to get in the business and it is slowly going, then this episode may be for you.

But I will take a very different approach than most in the next couple of episodes concerning how to get the most out of this year (or any year for that matter) for your business.

I started last week with my experience on my lifelong journey of creating wealth and goals and what I have discovered so far.

...

If you are in the self-storage business and trying to grow it, or if you have been trying to get in the business and it is slow-going, then this episode may be for you.

But I will take a very different approach than most in the next few episodes concerning how to get the most out of this year (or any year, for that matter) for your business.

Rather than focus on tips and techniques, let’s look at a larger picture.

I have often said (not an original thought, but part of my...

Often, we are dealing directly with an owner of a self-storage facility we are looking at buying.

It is hard to get financials, unit mix, or anything to go on in the first few meetings or conversations to help us see a potential value or where any upside is.

A non-intrusive report to ask for is a random daily close.

You will be surprised how much information about the facility you can get from this report.

Usually, I can see how well it is run, the upside, the current value range...

I have worked with several self-storage investors who are involved now, considering, and doing mixed-use projects of self-storage and flex space.

Flex space is the new shiny object for many smaller self-storage developers.

Now, given it is NFL playoff season… LET’S HAVE A GAME BETWEEN SELF-STORAGE AND FLEX SPACE.

You will meet Team Storage and Team Flex as they play a football game to see who the champion is now in the first quarter of 2025.

May the best team win.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com...

Until the 2020s, as a self-storage owner and developer of smaller projects (i.e., not large multi-story projects), I never used the design-build process many people apparently use to start a development project or even an expansion.

I also never started by going to an architect and/or engineer to design their project and create the building plans.

I never did that either.

Let me share our construction process with you.

This is critical in today’s environment of high construction and interest rate costs.

**Online Courses at The Qu...

Let me share with you my experience of being a self-storage owner and operator in the year 2025.

If I had to sum up my experience of self-storage growth in 2025 with one word, it would be…

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

...

How many times have you found a self-storage expansion deal, calculated the expansion amount you can add to the facility, run the numbers, and it still does not work because you can’t get enough new square feet in the project?

This has happened a number of times to me.

Given the current pricing of existing facilities and construction costs, it can be challenging.

Let me tell you a trick I have used. And I will do so by an example.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

...

I just saw a news article “Self-Storage Manager Accused of Embezzling $53K From xxx Mini Storage.”

Lets talk about how to protect yourself from loss and give some concrete steps and procedures.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

**The Storage Worl...

I see a common mistake today as I work with people who are getting into the self-storage business.

Especially people getting in their first deal.

Let’s figure out how much money you may need to buy self-storage today.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

...

When I first entered the self-storage business, “marketing” was all about how big a Yellow Pages ad you could afford.

It was nothing to spend $25,000 to $50,000 a year on a half-page Yellow Pages display ad.

Times have changed.

Let me share with you the five key strategies I see to get on top of today to win the game of self-storage marketing.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://crea...

I am sitting here in the last quarter of the year in 2024. As I look into the future, there are some really exciting aspects of our business, and there are some real risks.

I am planning out my next few years for myself as well as working on what I can tell people I coach and work with.

As I started writing down my thoughts to make them coherent, I realized this was an episode.

Let me share with you what I see as the five strengths (rewards) of the business and the...

I’ve made many mistakes in my self-storage career, but one of the biggest came early on when I purchased an existing facility that included a record storage business.

Let me share what it is so you don’t do the same thing.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/mark...

Let’s talk about algorithmic self-storage pricing strategies used by many in the industry today again.

I also want to share a warning about pricing strategies in the aftermath of some natural disasters like Hurricane Milton or the most recent hurricane, Helene.

This could keep you out of “hot water.”

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self S...

Congratulations. You now own at least one self-storage facility.

In the old days, we would just set up shop, get our operating system up and running, and turn on the lights.

Those days are long gone.

Let’s look at a way to run a competitor analysis so you can position your facility to win today.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

...

Although I did not attend the most recent Self Storage Association convention in Las Vegas, I have been studying many of the sessions that occurred there.

One thing I found very interesting was the presentation that showed the results of StorageMart’s Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of Net Operating Income over the past five years using the data from 75 stores.

Let me share my takeaways from that and one way we use this idea in the real world as we look at opportunities.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

Let’s talk about self-storage, technology, robots at storage facilities, and why in the world I ever made this episode.

Hope you enjoy.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

**The Storage World Analyzer** http://storageworldanalyzer.com/

**The QuickStart Ac...

We are going to discuss self-storage brand loyalty, self-storage revenue management, and customer value.

And we are going to start with Netflix.

It might not make sense now, but it will.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

**The...

If you took a loan or purchased your self-storage facility around 2018 and it is time to refinance, you better understand where you will stand with a bank.

I suggest doing this before calling a lender.

Let me share the exercise I go through to develop my strategy BEFORE reaching out to lenders.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating...

In the self-storage world, there is a lot of momentum towards fully automated facilities, no matter the project size.

I am not here to say that is the wrong direction.

I even am involved in one myself as a partner.

But today, let me talk about a reason to consider the more traditional approach to self-storage management using trained managers.

AND ITS NOT FOR THE REASONS YOU MAY THINK.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us...

It seems like once a year or so, I get on a soap box and rail about sq. ft. per capita as the main measurement for self-storage supply demand calculations.

This may be my last, because now is the time to rid ourselves of this benchmark as the main measurement because it more often than not, gives false data that has us owners make bad decisions.

Let me share my experience over the last year or so with you.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple...

I was thinking the other day, asking myself the question, “If I could only do one more type of self-storage deal, what would it be?”

The answer was right there…instantly.

It was….

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

**The...

Perhaps one of the best advantages of self-storage is the very few ongoing capital expenditures that are required.

It is one of the main reasons I was initially attracted to this asset class.

However, how does one plan for the capital expenses a project will have, and how much are they?

Let’s discuss how I do it.

Our goal is to never use operating cash flow to pay a capital expense.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.ap...

As many of you know, I helped start a small construction company in order to Resolve a problem I was having, construction cost being extremely high today.

So far, we have been able to bring in projects 15% to 27% less than previous bids we received.

We are also working for other small owners and developers as a third-party owner’s representative and/or general contractor helping them bring their self-storage projects in utilizing the same process.

We are often asked how our prices can be lower than others today.

Let me share wi...

I have said recently that it really takes something to buy self-storage or create a storage opportunity today.

Usually it takes a lot of work.

Yet, today, even with all of this being true for me, I am optimistic about the upcoming year.

Why?

Let me tell you why.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

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**My blog**

...

Often, we deal directly with a seller when buying self-storage.

Or often, with listed property, we see a shiny OM (offering memorandum) and everything looks great. Then we see the other due diligence documents, and the facility can lose some of its luster.

I have often stated that I could look at a random daily “Management Report” and get a lot of information I need to generate an offer or start negotiating.

Let’s look at one together

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple...

The cost of capital is high today to do a Self-Storage or Boat & RV development today.

Let’s look at a creative way to reduce this cost of capital and perhaps solve another problem for us smaller developers if we are using other people’s money and/or syndicating a deal today.

Let me know your thoughts and other methods you may have used.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://crea...

So, is the decade-long self-storage party over?

Is self-storage still a good place for small investors to go in search of their dreams and goals?

I’ll share what I think after contemplating the data from the big players after Q1-2024.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.co...

Smitty is my partner in a self-storage company designed to take the small investor through the entitlement process for self-storage projects in an affordable way and then bid on the construction of the project in a competitive environment, ensuring clients get the best value possible.

We feel this is a powerful way, in today’s high-cost environment, to give smaller players a competitive edge and help bring projects online that may otherwise not happen.

Yardi just released Q4 data on the self-storage industry, and development projects are being abandoned at a high rate today.

...

Self-Storage tends to attract lone wolves who want the freedom and independence this business can offer.

But here’s the deal: no one can be successful by themselves. It takes a village.

Or a team, in this case.

Let’s discuss the basics of who I think are the players on your self-storage team if you are creating a self-storage project.

I have the privilege of scaling a new company (Resolve) with a construction partner helping small storage investors get to biddable plans, then execute self-storage construction using the process and team...

I had a few ah-ha moments at the recent Inside Self-Storage Convention (ISS) a few weeks ago.

One of them was about the future of Boat & RV developments as a niche in the storage space.

I heard a statistic that I’ve heard a few times before, but this time, something happened.

I had a revelation and could see it all.

Let me share it with you.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id...

As many of you know, I attended the Inside Self Storage (ISS) Convention two weeks ago in Las Vegas.

Not everyone could go, so here are a few takeaways in no particular order.

In some future episodes, I will cover others in more detail. However, here are some higher view on some broader aspects of the self-storage space.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

Let’s talk about the physics of self-storage today.

I finally figured out that REITs must have physicists on their payroll.

Let’s look at how we can apply laws of physics, at both the Newtonian level and the Quantum level to our storage business.

Enjoy.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

Over the years, I have worked with many people who need to “raise investment money” from “investors.”

I have seen many not succeed.

I struggled some when I first got started, as well.

Let me share the big reasons I see investors fail.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https...

There are two main organizations that put on seminars in the self-storage space in the US.

One is the Self-Storage Association (SSA), and the other is Inside Self Storage (ISS).

I love the SSA; it is a vital organization for self-storage owners.

For people new to the storage space and small investors, I find the ISS very helpful. How the conventions are organized, the sessions offered, and what they present tend to work well for the people I coach and support.

If you have never been to one, I recommend the...

In this episode, I will cover material that will be important to you regardless of whether you are joining us in this upcoming QuickStart Self-Storage Boot Camp on March 8th & 9th, 2024.

A lot of things are changing in the economy and the self-storage industry itself. This will be a very timely and important time to hold a bootcamp.

Let’s go over the five main reasons you should consider being in this particular Bootcamp.

Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMNJQjnjN-Y

March 8th & 9th, 2024 Quick Start Academy Bootcamp Signup:

In my world of self-storage acquisition, there are two big obstacles today. One is financing challenges, and the other is construction costs.

Now, it is true construction costs have leveled off somewhat, but they are still high.

Let’s talk about some effective ways to get these costs down today.

Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULWjkI-Bxu0

March 8th & 9th, 2024 Quick Start Academy Bootcamp Signup:

https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2024-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Pod...

In the world of self-storage investments, capitalization rates, or CAP rates, are more widely discussed and understood.

You certainly will never see one in an offering memorandum.

Let’s talk about what they really are, how I suggest using them today, and their role in my suggested process for determining what you can pay for an existing self storage facility.

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_ua_LYVTD4

March 8th & 9th, 2024 Quick Start Academy Bootcamp Signup:

https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/2024-q1-live-virtual-bootcamp/

Here is a l...

I am writing this in early Jan. 2024 and focusing on a back-to-the-basics series for getting into the self-storage industry.

Because we have a lot of new people in the community, and because I have just put out two detailed episodes on how to analyze, I thought I might discuss my thoughts on negotiating and controlling a potential storage deal.

Let me share my ideas on good negotiating and one powerful thing I try to do on every deal, if I can, that has served me well over the years.

2024 Quick Start Bootcamp Signup...

I am writing this in early Jan. 2024 and focusing on a back-to-the-basics series for getting into the self-storage industry.

Because we have a lot of new people in the community, and because I have just put out two detailed episodes on how to analyze, I thought I might discuss my thoughts on negotiating and controlling a potential storage deal.

Let me share my ideas on good negotiating and one powerful thing I try to do on every deal, if I can, that has served me well over the years.

2024 Quick Start Bootcamp Signup...

Lets take a look at a video I did on how to analyze Conversion in Episode 211.

Conversions are a great way to get in the self-storage business.

But a lot has changed since I first recorded this episode.

And yet, a lot remains the same.

Let’s take a look together at my past self, and my current self will share what is different today and what numbers I am currently using.

And like last week when we did the same with expansions in Episode 406, I remind you, these ar...

Here is a video I did on how to analyze expansions in Episode 210.

Expansions are still a major way I, and the people I work with are using to get in the self-storage business.

But a lot has changed since I first recorded this episode.

And yet, a lot remains the same.

Let’s take a look together at my past self, and my current self will share what is different today and what numbers I am currently using.

Now, as a cautionary disclosure, these are just numbers I am...

Let’s use to use Jan. of 2024 as a back to the basics on how to get in the self-storage business, or grow one in these challenging times, I thought I would talk again about what makes a good site for self-storage.

I have made some real mistakes here in the past.

I think there are four main elements that make a great self-storage site for development.

Let me share them with you.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.co...

As I write this in Jan 2024, I get asked a lot “What and where are the best self-storage opportunities today.”

If you are a small investor or new to the space, let me share with you what and where I am focused on today, given the current realities.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Face...

Most of us who are in the self-storage business or own our own businesses set yearly goals.

I recently went through the process I use prior to setting my goals with the members of our Inner Circle community, and it seemed to make an impact, so I thought I would share it with you.

Before I create any new goals, I want to make sure nothing that can slow down or interfere my success is being brought forth by me.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on...

A quick holiday message for you and wishing you a Happy Holiday season from Mark Helm.

Let’s make 2024 one for the books.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

**The Storage World Analyzer** http://storageworldanalyzer.com/

**The QuickStart Ac...

This year has been an interesting one for many of us small investors in the self-storage space.

Let me share some of my challenges with you, but more importantly, a way to create the following year for you in the self-storage space.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/<...

Four hundred episodes over eight years.

Here is what it looks (or sounds) like.

The numbers change. The people change.

But do the fundamentals remain the same?

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IseSapYfcJA

How To Create A Successful Self-Storage Business

Many of us get into self-storage because we are looking for freedom. Both financially and with the freedom to manage our time as we see fit.

And yet, we are often even busier than ever before.

But if we are not careful, one day, we wake up and wonder why we are not anxious to get up and “run” our business.

Let me share a couple of things I wish I had learned when I bought my first self storage project.

**Online Cour...

In today’s self-storage industry, one of the biggest challenges we have today as small self-storage entrepreneurs is the rising disconnect between the rates quoted by Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and the actual rental prices in the market, including their own effective rental rates.

Let’s look at how that affects small self-storage investors like us and a few solutions.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

Why in the world would someone ever consider a hard-money loan for refinancing a self-storage facility?

Well, for a few it may not be as far-fetched as it sounds.

Let’s look at a few scenarios.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by...

Let’s talk about property insurance.

I don’t think many of us are prepared for the premium increases we are going to see over the next few years.

The days of predictable, marginal increases are behind us; in fact, we’re now entering an era where insurance costs could skyrocket by as much as 10% to 20% annually, if not more.

Let’s discuss how this could impact your underwriting and project performance.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podca...

“Is now the time to get in self storage?”

I get asked that multiple times a week.

Let me give you my opinion today.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https://www.facebook.com/markhelmselfstorage/

**Twitter** Tweets by MarkHelmSelfSt

**The Storage World Analyzer** http://storageworldanalyzer.com/

...

Let me share a case study of how a deal was done in tough economic times.

I offer this not as “here is how to do deals, or here are some tips or techniques to use.”

I offer this case study example to motivate you to ask different questions. It is the questions we ask ourselves that are the most important part of using create alternatives.

But I am also sure you may learn a thing or two about solutions we can employ in challenging times.

Enjoy.

**Online Courses at T...

I am starting to have fun again as I work on getting my next self-storage project.

Nothing has really changed that much in the market…but I am beginning to notice a shift.

Let me share with you what it is and my recommendations today as we hunt for the net deal.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating We...

I am starting to have fun again as I work on getting my next self-storage project.

Nothing has really changed that much in the market…but I am beginning to notice a shift.

Let me share with you what it is and my recommendations today as we hunt for the net deal.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating We...

Interest rates are going up!

No… They’re flattening out and going down.

No, wait… They are going up again.

What is a small self-storage person to do?

How can we navigate these strange and choppy waters?

Let me share with you how I am doing it.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creati...

Let me share with you an idea I got as I was working with a person I coach.

It is a strategy you can deploy to come in right under the nose of the larger self storage projects in development and lease up all around you.

I think this is one most of us can deploy.

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My...

Yes, I have a self-storage facility where there is no manager.

Automation has allowed that.

But, for the most part, projects I have been involved in have managers. I like managers.

Let’s take a different kind of look at using managers in self-storage in the age of automation.

Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJKdzuXLB1Y

Yes, I see more distressed self-storage being marketed.

It is actually something I didn’t see very often early in my career.

I can remember telling people things like, “If you see a distressed self-storage facility, odds are you don’t want it. It is usually distressed because of fundamental reasons going on in the trade area that you can’t solve.”

I don’t say that anymore.

It just looks very different, and how we buy them is different too.

Let me explain in this video.

**Online Cours...

I have been threatening for months to release my new Fundraising Course.

Well… It is ready. I am going to launch it with a live event. 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM Eastern time Friday & Saturday, August 18 & 19,2023.

The course/event is called – Fundraising For The Small Self Storage Investor.

If you need to use other people’s money to get in or grow your self-storage business, but it seems overwhelming, scary, or unsure where to start, this is your course.

If you see this after the course, it is available as an on-demand course to support...

Im starting to see the distressed self-storage listings.

I said they were most likely coming and I am starting to see a trickle of them, soon to be more.

Let me share with you an example of what to look for and then go on a rant.

**Fundraising Course Release Notification** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/self-storage-fundraising-course-notification/

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

Online marketing has never been more critical than it is today.

Especially if you are in lease up.

Let me share how I approach it now, and hopefully somone will change my mind.

**Fundraising Course Release Notification** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/self-storage-fundraising-course-notification/

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/top-5-kpi-ebook/

**My blog**

Creating Wealth Through Self Storage

**Facebook** https...

A lot has changed since I first dipped my toes into the self-storage waters in 1995.

Perhaps the most interesting and-fast paced changes have revolved around tech innovations.

Not all tech innovations are right for your facility.

Let’s look at innovations and tech upgrades we have used that made a difference.

**Fundraising Course Release Notification** https://creatingwealththroughselfstorage.lpages.co/self-storage-fundraising-course-notification/

**Online Courses at The Quickstart Academy** https://TheQuickStartAcademy.com/

**Listen on Apple Podcasts** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-wealth-through-self-storage/id1588425875

** 5 KPIs we measure** https://cr...