Self-storage investments can be an excellent opportunity for passive investors to diversify their portfolios. However, evaluating the right investment opportunity can be daunting, especially for those needing industry experience. This blog post will guide evaluating self-storage investment opportunities for better investment outcomes.
Considerations for Evaluating Self-Storage Investments
Market Demand and Competition
By understanding market demand and competition, passive investors can make informed decisions about their self-storage investments. This can help ensure long-term profitability and success in the industry
Property Location/Accessibility
The location of the storage units is a crucial factor to consider. The storage unit must be easily accessible to the customers. For example, is the self-storage storage unit located near a major roadway or highway or in a prominent or easily accessible location? It’s also essential to consider the surrounding amenities in the area to determine if customers will be willing to rent a unit at the site. A good self-storage investment opportunity must have adequate access and visibility to attract and retain customers.
Property Management
The management of the property is another essential consideration. The property manager should have experience managing properties of similar sizes and be equipped to handle the unique challenges of self-storage properties. A good property manager should be responsive, responsible, and able to promptly take care of repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, a property manager should be able to manage and retain customers by ensuring that the property stays clean, safe, and secure.
Occupancy Rates
Occupancy rates help investors determine the profitability of self-storage investments. A high occupancy rate indicates high demand for storage units, and the property will likely generate a steady cash flow. Key metrics include rents, vacancy rates, customer demographics, and rent bumps. Bumps refer to the rent a tenant will pay when renewing their lease. A decent self-storage investment should have occupancy rates of over 80% with well-structured lease agreements.
Capitalization Rates
Capitalization rates (Cap rates) indicate an investment property’s expected annual return ratio. It measures the property’s current value against the expected net operating income. The possible return on investment increases with the cap rate. When evaluating self-storage investments, it’s crucial to understand the prevailing cap rates in the market and the potential for asset appreciation over time. The appropriate Cap rate is 6.5-9% for self-storage assets.
Historical Returns and Reviews
Lastly, always check the historical financials of the self-storage properties. It’s essential to evaluate the track record of the property in terms of rental income, returns on investment, and customer satisfaction. In addition, reviews can be used to determine the property’s reputation within the community.
Bottom-Line
Evaluating self-storage investment opportunities requires careful consideration of several factors. Investing in a great self-storage property can provide excellent returns and stable income streams, making it an ideal investment choice for passive investors. As you consider the investment options for self-storage ventures, ensure that you have the appropriate financial support and a professional team to manage the property.
Maximizing your returns with self-storage investment opportunities starts with a self-storage fund. schedule a free call with us.