Smart Self-Storage Management: How to Simplify Operations and Maximize Returns
Many investors are drawn to self-storage for its stability and strong returns—but they often hesitate because of management concerns. Fortunately, modern technology has made operating even smaller facilities far easier and more efficient.
Hands-Off Management for Larger Facilities
If you own a large facility, you can take advantage of third-party management services. These companies handle everything—from leasing and maintenance to rent collection—allowing you to enjoy truly passive “mailbox money.”
Smarter Solutions for Smaller Operators
For smaller facilities, where hiring full management may not be cost-effective, technology is the key to efficiency. Phone apps can handle most of the heavy lifting, as can a self-service kiosk like the one in the photo. Benefits:
-
Prospects can view available unit sizes and pricing.
-
IDs can be scanned on-site.
-
Rental agreements are e-signed and automatically sent via email or text.
-
The kiosk can take a photo of the tenant and assign a gate access code.
Some kiosks even dispense locks, making move-ins fully self-service.
Streamlined Payment and Security
With storage management software that includes an online portal, tenants can pay rent remotely or at the kiosk. If a tenant becomes delinquent, their access code can be automatically disabled until their account is current.
To further protect your investment:
-
Install remotely accessed gate controllers and surveillance cameras.
-
Use individual door alarms tied to access codes—so a delinquent tenant can’t sneak in with another person’s code.
Learn More
Interested in expanding into self-storage or improving your facility’s operations?
👉 Sign up for one of my live online courses to learn how to invest, automate, and grow your storage business.
About the Author
Denise Evans, JD, CCIM is a commercial real estate broker and a self-storage developer and operator, with years of experience helping investors acquire, design, and manage profitable storage facilities. She specializes in teaching real-world strategies for self-storage success—combining data-driven insights, automation tools, and practical operations know-how.
