In today’s weaker economy, many families are looking to downsize to deal with the increased cost of living. As a result, self-storage demand remains steady and continues to be a wise investment.
In a clever blog on The Four D’s, the Self Storage Association explains the various life events that lead to the need for self-storage. (SSA) Events including death, divorce, dislocation, and downsizing lead to the need for self-storage. A weaker economy is the most common reason currently driving the demand for self-storage.
Many people in the process of downsizing are now looking for self-storage to keep some of their most treasured items that simply can’t be replaced. Self-storage provides a necessary service for these situations. The key is to attract those who find themselves in need of storage.
Let’s refresh on some of the best ways to reach families who are downsizing and need additional storage. Remember the most important ways that new tenants find you are online, driving by, or a referral. Let’s tidy up your online presence and get started.
- Set up or refresh your Google Business Profile.
- Set up or refresh your Facebook & Instagram profile.
- Ask for reviews and reply when you receive a new one.
- Update your website.
- Add many photos.
- Post on social media consistently.
Set up or refresh your Google Business Profile.
Every business needs to claim its Google Business profile. You can find the steps here. Find your business category, add your location and service area, add all relevant information, and then verify your business. This business profile should be as complete as possible. Add hours, location, methods of contact, website, and photos.
As potential tenants use Google to search for “self-storage near me,” you want to be sure that your business information is populated because it contains your address. This profile is a free business tool and should not be ignored. If you haven’t done so, let this be the first task you complete today.
If your profile is created already, log in to manage your account. Make sure that all information is correct and up to date. If you have received any reviews, take the time to respond to them with a thank you.
Set up or refresh your Facebook and Instagram profiles.
Social media is a free, easy way to advertise your business. Make sure that information is complete and accurate. Check for misspelled words. In each profile, you should include your contact information, hours, and website so that your business is easy to locate.
Ask for reviews and reply when you receive a new one.
Post on your Google profile, Facebook timeline, and Instagram asking for reviews from followers and tenants. Your best advertisement is a positive review. Be sure to thank people for their reviews. You may also have to address a negative review as well. “Thank you for the feedback. Please email us directly at info@thebestselfstorage.com (insert your customer service email here).
Update your website.
The Google Business Profile is the most important piece because when people search for your business, this is what comes up first. The next time you search for something, notice what comes up and which links you click on to get what you need. Now it’s time to update your website. Be sure that it is easy to work through and find information. Be sure that information is updated and corrected. It is time to offer online rentals and reservations. If your business has not taken this step, it’s time to do it now. People in every age group are seeking the easiest way to reserve a storage unit, and using an online process is the easiest way to do this.
Add many photos.
Your website, Google profile, and social media need photos. They need to be clear photos that show your property for people to see if they want to rent from you or not. You do not have to use a professional photographer if that is not affordable at this time. An iPhone takes great photos if you use a steady hand and take photos of what is necessary. Some photos you should include are the rental office, the parking lot, the gate, security cameras, every unit size, the signage, each building on the property, and anything else that sets you apart from the competitors.
Post on social media consistently.
Posting on social media consistently is essential for all small businesses. Posting consistently gains favor with social media algorithms, and enables future tenants to find you more easily. Use your creativity and make it fun. A local self-storage business uses a sign on the side of the building to advertise a funny quote weekly. This should be one social media post every single week. Find ways to be creative, and fun and brighten other people’s day.
Downsizing is something that is happening at all times across the United States. Learning to capitalize on life changes is necessary in the self-storage business. There are free ways to effectively market your business daily. These tips are helpful to get started.
At Weaver Realty, we are the Argus Self Storage Network Affiliate for the state of Florida (excluding the Panhandle)and Georgia. We are eager to work with investors to grow their self-storage portfolio. Call us today at 904-733-0039.
