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The number one mistake self-storage developers make is...

By Garrett Byrd


Drum roll, please...Choosing the wrong location!




This critical error encompasses several key aspects:


Location and Market Analysis Failures


Site Selection Challenges

Developers often make fundamental mistakes when selecting a location, including:

  • Not understanding local market conditions

  • Assuming planned housing developments will materialize

  • Overlooking critical infrastructure requirements

  • Failing to conduct a thorough market feasibility study


Key Location-Related Pitfalls


Market Condition Misunderstandings

Developers frequently purchase or build facilities based on current market conditions without considering long-term economic trends.

This can be catastrophic, especially if:

  • A major local employer is planning to shut down

  • The local economy is unstable

  • Projected housing developments never come to fruition


Infrastructure and Utility Considerations

A critical aspect of location selection involves evaluating utility capacity and infrastructure. Developers must:

  • Understand existing electric, water, and sewer infrastructure

  • Recognize that bringing utilities to a site can be time-consuming and expensive

  • Consult with local and state planning officials about infrastructure improvements


Practical Implications


Choosing the wrong location can lead to:

  • Prolonged vacancy

  • Reduced occupancy rates

  • Significant financial losses

  • Inability to attract tenants


Storage Authority Franchise approaches location selection with our franchise owners conservatively, to avoid this mistake:


  • Discounting potential demand by up to 20 percent and ensuring their business plan works with existing market conditions.

  • Be overly conservative with their expenses, rents, occupancy, and revenue growth projections.

  • Conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies to get realistic projections.



Storage Authority Franchising is all about owning your own local self-storage business, supported by professional systems and expertise. We like to say, "You're in business for yourself but not by yourself." If self-storage is on your mind, don't hesitate to reach out to me, Garrett Byrd at Direct: 941-928-1354 or Garrett@StorageAuthority.com to learn more about the Storage Authority Franchise opportunity.



 If you would like to learn more and start your journey to self-storage ownership click the link here: http://www.storageauthorityfranchise.com/opportunity2



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