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Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2026 [Softcover]

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:10:46 GMT

Length: 104 Pages
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2025 [Softcover]

Buying or building a self-storage facility has evolved into a complex process as markets have become increasingly competitive and saturated. This Guidebook is designed to help individuals who want to invest in the business, establish a facility or expand an existing property. It addresses several critical areas: investing, real estate, finance, development, design, construction and building components, sustainability and ancillary services.

This publication will give you the foundation you need to create a successful project and maximize its profitability. Topics include:

Investing

Common investor language
Financial stability
Paths to ownership
Scaling a portfolio
Market analysis
Fundraising
Estate planning
Exit strategies

Real Estate

Today’s market
Efficient transactions
Acquisition success
Off-market deals
Fixer-upper approach
Financial projections
Due diligence
Sale preparation
Broker benefits
Cap rates
Asset value

Finance

Financial and lender terms
Loan opportunities
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Small Business Administration
Construction loans
Bridge loans
CPACE financing
Loan-package request

Project Planning

Development factors
Pitfalls to avoid
Proactive development strategies
Design/build
Value engineering
Expansion strategies
Team assembly
Feasibility factors
Site selection
Zoning and approvals
Design trends
Layout and unit mix

Development Case Studies

Overcoming obstacles
Zoning challenges
Design workarounds
Leveraging innovation

Construction

Construction budget
Construction timeline
Site-utilization plan
Materials and components
Campus diversity
Multi-story building
Adaptive reuse
Climate control
Portable buildings
Lighting plan
Office refurbishment
Building boat/RV storage

Sustainability

Sustainable building practices
Eco-friendly upgrades
Community solar

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2025 series, click here.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2024 [Softcover]

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 17:31:34 GMT

This Guidebook addresses key aspects to self-storage ownership and management providing insight to revenue, sales, legal issues, marketing, maintenance, liability, technology, security and much more.

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 224 Pages

NOTE: The 2024 ISS Guidebooks are being printed. We expect pre-orders to ship no later than Jan. 19. If you don’t want to wait, you can instead purchase a digital copy, which will be immediately delivered to your “My On-Demand Library.” See the link to the digital version below.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2024 [Softcover]
Whether you’re a self-storage owner or manager, your understanding of the myriad aspects connected to facility operation has a direct correlation to the success and sustainability of the business. This Guidebook provides guidance to help operators maximize the performance of a self-storage asset with respect to revenue, sales, customer service, marketing, staffing, security, risk management, career development, technology, outsourcing and so much more. Topics include:

Revenue Management

Market change
Net operating income
Cash flow
Key performance indicators
Budgeting
Capital expenditures
Rental rates
Unit values
Fee structure
Tenant delinquency
Expenses
Tax issues
Operational challenges

Sales & Service

Sales skills
In-person strategies
Scripting
Buyer personas
Customer experience
Service tips
In-house call centers

Site Maintenance

Capital improvements
Efficiency and sustainability
Curb appeal
Office refresh
Retail area
Preventive planning
Roof maintenance
Door care
Security
Lighting
Asphalt
Landscaping
Pest prevention

Safety & Security

Crime prevention
Cybersecurity
Workplace violence
Employee theft
Emergency preparedness
Crisis management
Safety protocols
Site security

Legal & Insurance

Legal trends
Rental agreements
Lien sales
Tenant bankruptcy
Technology and privacy
Accessibility
Property liability
Vehicle storage
Insurance coverage and claims
Tenant insurance

Staffing

Labor challenges
Recruiting and hiring
Compensation
Company culture
Diversity, equity and inclusion
Policies and procedures
Incentives and retention
Training and development
Performance reviews
Employee discipline

Career Development

Career advancement
Changing companies
Owner aspirations
Interview advice
Communications
Social media dangers
Resolving conflict

Marketing

Grand-opening events
Lease-up
Budgeting
Market uncertainty
Brand-building
Website strategies
Digital tactics
Search engine optimization
Business listings
Online reviews
Artificial intelligence
Content strategies
Referrals
Organic and guerrilla strategies
Movies and television
Promotional partnerships

Technology

Trending tools
Needs assessment
Contactless rentals
Automation
Management software
Internet of Things
Artificial Intelligence
Tech support
Collections
Smart locks
Two-way video
Revenue management
QR codes
Mobile apps

Outsourcing

Service contractors
Third-party management
Human resources
Site maintenance
Call centers
IT support
Pest control

Add-On Services

Retail
Technology upgrades
Truck rentals
Boat/RV storage
Wine storage
Billboards
Ancillary alternatives

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2024 series, click here.

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2024 [Softcover]

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 16:19:02 GMT

This Guidebook is designed to help those interested in self-storage investing as well as those who want to establish or expand an operation. It addresses real estate, finance, development and construction.

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 104 Pages

NOTE: The 2024 ISS Guidebooks are being printed. We expect pre-orders to ship no later than Jan. 19. If you don’t want to wait, you can instead purchase a digital copy, which will be immediately delivered to your “My On-Demand Library.” See the link to the digital version below..

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2024 [Softcover]
Buying or building a self-storage facility has evolved into a complex process as markets have become increasingly competitive and saturated. This Guidebook is designed to help individuals who want to invest in the business, establish a facility or expand an existing property. It addresses several critical areas: investing, real estate, finance, development, design, construction and building components, sustainability and ancillary services.

This publication will give you the foundation you need to create a successful project and maximize its profitability. Topics include:

Investing

Advice for newcomers
Deal networking
Buying vs. building
Raising capital
Pro forma tips
Cost return
Industry oversupply
Social tokens

Real Estate

Market overview
Finding land
Deal-killers
Distressed properties
Deal structures
Due diligence
Capitalization rates
Facility value
Capital expenditures
Sale preparation

Finance

Loan options
Lending outlook
Loan packages/approval
Refinancing
Maturing debt
CMBS financing
Construction financing
SBA loans
Clean-energy financing

Development & Design

Team assembly
Design-build approach
First-facility tips
Class-A must-haves
Site selection
Feasibility
Zoning
Site layout
Design trends

Construction & Components

Budgeting
Timelines
Materials
Metal construction
Multi-story
Conversions
Case studies
Renovations

Sustainability

Eco-friendly design
Lighting
Solar power

Ancillaries

Vehicle storage
Boat/RV storage
Storage condos

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2024 series, click here.

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2023 [Softcover]

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 18:16:38 GMT

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 100 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2023 [Softcover]
Buying or building a self-storage facility has evolved into a complex process as markets have become increasingly competitive and saturated. This Guidebook is designed to help individuals who want to invest in the business, establish a facility or expand an existing property. It addresses several critical areas: investing, finance, real estate, planning, development, design and construction.

This publication will give you the foundation you need to create a successful project and maximize its profitability. Topics include:

Investing & Real Estate

Investment paths
Long-term planning
Transaction anatomy
Capitalization rates
Facility value
Sale preparation
Eminent domain
Pre-offer checklist
Off-market deals
Underperforming properties
Secondary/tertiary markets
Working with brokers
Exit strategy

Finance

Loan options
Interest rates
Refinancing
Bridge financing
Seller financing
Loan approval
Financial statements
Private capital

Planning & Development

Planning strategies
Team assembly
Site selection
Land use
Site layout
Zoning
Mixed-use projects

Design & Construction

Design fundamentals
Construction costs
Timelines
Building types
Roof design
Multi-story
Climate control
Conversions
Case studies
Boat/RV storage
Wine storage
Solar power

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2023 series, click here.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2023 [Softcover]

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 18:16:38 GMT

This Guidebook addresses key aspects to self-storage ownership and management providing insight to revenue, sales, legal issues, marketing, maintenance, liability, technology, security and much more.

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 248 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2023 [Softcover]
Whether you’re a self-storage owner or manager, your understanding of the myriad aspects connected to facility operation has a direct correlation to the success and sustainability of the business. This Guidebook provides guidance to help operators maximize the performance of a self-storage asset with respect to occupancy, revenue, curb appeal, sales, customer service, marketing, staffing, security, risk management, career development, technology and so much more. Topics include:

Revenue Management

Inflation
Budgeting
Financial statements
Rental rates
Unit values
Fee structure
Collections
Auctions
Expenses
Tax issues
Occupancy
Facility audits

Sales & Service

Sales skills
Scripting
Customer experience
Service tips
Tenant onboarding
Communications
Service challenges

Site Maintenance

Curb appeal
Task lists and guides
Office refresh
Retail area
Roof maintenance
Door care
Signage
Fence retrofit
Pest prevention
Rental trucks
Summer tips
Winter prep
Hiring vendors

Safety & Security

Personal protection
Health and safety
Personal injury
Crime prevention
Employee theft
Emergency preparedness
Crisis management
Cybersecurity
Site security
Access control

Legal & Insurance

Legal trends
Rental agreements
Wrongful sales
Death, divorce and disappearance
Tenant bankruptcy
Vehicle storage
Loitering and habitation
Search and seizure
Cashless payments
Insurance coverages and claims
Tenant insurance

Staffing

Labor challenges
Policies and procedures
Recruiting and hiring
Compensation
Training
Company culture
Incentives and retention
Performance reviews
Discipline
Conflict resolution
Remote working

Career Development

Team attitude
Ownership mindset
Self-improvement
Goal-setting
Job skills
Communications
Career advancement
Battling burnout

Marketing

Brand-building
Budgeting
Audience development
Common mistakes
Tracking results
Digital strategies
Website strategies
Search engine optimization
Link-building
Content strategies
Video tips
Email tactics
Graphic design
Social media
Community relations

Technology

Needs assessment
Maintenance
Management software
Contactless rentals
Remote management
Kiosks
Internet of Things
Omnichannel
Chatbots
Security components
Access control
Drones

Outsourcing

Service contractors
Third-party management
Human resources
Staff training
Technology evaluations
Call centers
Site maintenance
Marketing support

Add-On Services

Retail
Boat/RV storage
Truck rentals
Wine storage
Art storage
Flex workspace
Tenant insurance
Tenant-protection plans
Cell towers

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2023 series, click here.

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2022 [Softcover]

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 20:35:49 GMT

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 92 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2022 [Softcover]
Buying or building a self-storage facility has evolved into a complex process as markets have become increasingly competitive and saturated. This Guidebook is designed to help individuals who want to invest in the business, establish a facility or expand an existing property. It addresses several critical areas: investing, finance, real estate, planning, development, design and construction.

This publication will give you the foundation you need to create a successful project and maximize its profitability. Topics include:

Investing & Real Estate

Long-term planning
Real estate transactions
Land negotiations
Due diligence
Acquisitions
Sale preparation
Working with brokers
Capitalization rates
Facility value
Underperforming properties
Capital improvements
Exit strategy

Finance

Capital stack
Loan options
Private equity
Seller financing
Construction loans
SBA financing
Refinancing

Planning & Development

Project approval
Team assembly
Site selection
Feasibility studies
Site layout
Unit mix
Land use
Mixed-use projects

Design & Construction

Budgeting
Timelines
Design trends
Case studies
Unit types
Roof design
Renovations
Eco-friendly storage
Solar panels
Building boat/RV storage

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2022 series, click here.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2022 [Softcover]

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 20:32:14 GMT

This Guidebook addresses key aspects to self-storage ownership and management providing insight to revenue, sales, legal issues, marketing, maintenance, liability, technology, security and much more.

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 240 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2022 [Softcover]
Whether you’re a self-storage owner or manager, your understanding of the myriad aspects connected to facility operation has a direct correlation to the success and sustainability of the business. This Guidebook provides guidance to help operators maximize the performance of a self-storage asset with respect to occupancy, revenue, curb appeal, sales, customer service, marketing, staffing, security, risk management, career development, technology and so much more. Topics include:

Revenue Management

Occupancy
Budgeting
Expenses
Rental rates
Discounting
Collections
Tax issues
Facility audits

Sales & Service

Sales skills
Leads and follow-up
Customer experience
Difficult customer situations
Competition advice

Site Maintenance

Curb appeal
Task lists and guides
Facility sanitation
Roof maintenance
Door upkeep
Security components
Digital assets
Pest prevention
Signage
Capital improvements

Safety & Security

Best practices
Accident prevention
Cyberattacks
Crisis management
Disaster prevention
Crime prevention
Site security
Working with law enforcement
Security-system features
Unmanned sites
Video challenges

Legal & Insurance

Pandemic-related issues
Lien-law updates
Rental agreements
Unit abandonment
Wrongful sale
Subpoenas and search warrants
Tenant bankruptcy
Website accessibility
Employee theft
Insurance coverages and claims
Tenant insurance and protection plans

Staffing

Policies and procedures
Operations manual
Workplace challenges
Company culture
Hiring tips
Compensation
Incentives and retention
Staff training
Employee reviews
Staff discipline
Exit interviews

Career Development

Goal-setting
Job skills
Self-improvement
Career advancement
Leadership traits
Time management
Association benefits
Workplace conflict

Marketing

Brand-building
Budgeting
Digital strategies
Website design
Search engine optimization
Online business listings
Pay-per-click advertising
Remarketing
Campaign tracking
Content strategies
Video storytelling
Social media
Community relations
Advertising

Technology

Digital tools
Contactless rentals
Automation
Self-service kiosks
Mobile strategies
Facial recognition
Online chat
Call centers
Internet of Things
Management software
Humanizing tech

Outsourcing

Service contractors
Site maintenance
Professional employer organizations
Staff training
Health benefits
Marketing agencies
Technology evaluations
Third-party management

Add-On Services

Retail
Truck rentals
Technology upgrades
Wine storage
Boat/RV storage
Cell towers
Amazon lockers

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2022 series, click here.

The Investors Guide to Growing Wealth in Self Storage

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:49:15 GMT

Learn how to identify strong self-storage investment opportunities, allocate capital, and leverage management expertise to turn a mom-and-pop real estate asset into an income-producing venture.

Author: AJ Osborne
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 184 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

The Investors Guide to Growing Wealth in Self Storage: The Step-By-Step Playbook for Turning a Real Estate Asset Into a Thriving Self Storage Business
Not all self-storage investment opportunities are equal. Identifying development sites and facility acquisitions that can be leveraged into money-makers takes a keen eye and disciplined approach. Once you own an asset, you also need knowledge and fortitude to make it a success. In this book, the co-founder and owner of Keylock Storage teaches readers how to identify investment opportunities, allocate capital, and leverage management expertise to turn a mom-and-pop real estate asset into an income-producing venture.

Contents include:

Why self-storage is a great investment opportunity
How to get started in the industry
Understanding valuation and finding deals
Financing your facility
Evaluating competition and the deal
Turning around an underperforming asset
How to reduce risk
Leveraging a static asset into a dynamic business

“The Investors Guide to Growing Wealth in Self Storage,” authored by AJ Osborne, is published by JamesBrennae Publishing.

About the Author
AJ Osborne co-founded Bitterroot Holdings/Keylock Storage in 2012, building it into a $100 million portfolio with 12 properties across the Northwest. Though he specializes in leveraging a turnaround strategy to revitalize underperforming properties, he’s also developed self-storage from the ground up, expanded existing facilities and converted other property types into storage.
Osborne is a frequent speaker at industry events and also shares his investment strategies and systems through his podcast and YouTube channel, “Self Storage Income.” After being completely paralyzed and on life support a few years ago, he’s passionate about financial freedom and helping others achieve it for themselves.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2020 [Softcover]

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:44:22 GMT

This Guidebook addresses key aspects to self-storage ownership and management providing insight to revenue, sales, legal issues, marketing, maintenance, liability, technology, security and much more.

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 204 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Inside Self-Storage Facility-Operation Guidebook 2020 [Softcover]
Whether you’re a self-storage owner or manager, your understanding of the myriad aspects connected to facility operation has a direct correlation to the success and sustainability of the business. This Guidebook provides guidance to help operators maximize the performance of a self-storage asset with respect to occupancy, revenue, curb appeal, sales, customer service, marketing, staffing, security and so much more. Topics include:

Big-Picture Planning

Policies and procedures
Preparing for recession
Impact of climate change
Succession planning
Competition analysis

Revenue Management

Financial forecasting
Budgeting
Occupancy and rates
Hidden revenue
Unit-mix strategies
Discounting
Collections
Expenses
Tax issues
Lien sales

Sales & Service

Brand ambassadorship
Sales skills
Customer experience
Multi-generational approach
Difficult customer situations
Texting strategies

Site Maintenance

Critical tasks
Curb appeal
Roof preservation
Service for HVAC systems
Pest prevention
Mold eradication
Security-systems upkeep

Safety & Security

Best practices
Crime prevention
Working with law enforcement
Crisis management
Virtual threats
Tech trends
Security components and tools
Property access
Unit-door security

Legal & Insurance

Top threats
Rental agreements
Subrogation waivers
Lien laws
Authorized access
Employment laws
ADA compliance
Insurance coverages
Tenant insurance/protection plans

Staffing & Career Development

Hiring tips
Compensation
Staff training
Company culture
Employee diversity
Staff evaluations
Staff discipline
Employee theft
Workplace conflict
Professional development
Resident-manager rights

Marketing

Budgeting
Grassroots tips
Offline strategies
Word-of-mouth
Media relations
Digital presence
SEO
Digital advertising
Web development
Google My Business
Reputation management
Social media
Content strategies
Video
E-mail
Branding
Analytics
Planning

Technology

Trends
Tools
Embracing change
Management software
Tech support
Mobile strategies
Voice-enabled devices
Progressive Web Apps
Internet of Things
Kiosks
Automation

Outsourcing

Products and services
Third-party management
Site maintenance
Professional employer organizations
Staff training
Web development
Digital marketing
Call centers

Add-On Services

Retail
Vehicle storage
Moving services
Truck rentals
Wine storage
Tenant insurance
Cell towers
Propane sales

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2020 series, click here.

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2020 [Softcover]

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:43:33 GMT

Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 84 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Inside Self-Storage Building/Investing Guidebook 2020 [Softcover]
Buying or building a self-storage facility has evolved into a complex process as markets have become increasingly competitive and saturated. This Guidebook is designed to help individuals who want to invest in the business, establish a facility or expand an existing property. It addresses several critical areas: investing, finance, real estate, development, design and construction.

You'll learn about investment and loan options, insight for choosing a site to build or facility to acquire, evaluation criteria, smart investment strategies, project principles, design considerations, renovations, and much more. It'll give you the foundation you need to create a successful project and maximize its profitability. Topics include:

Investing & Finance

Investment types
Business planning
Buy vs. build
Smart strategies
Opportunity Zones
Franchising
Finance options
Refinancing
Recession advice

Buying & Selling

Real estate outlook
Transaction insight
Acquisitions
Due diligence
Capitalization rates
Property valuation

Development & Planning

Advice for first-timers
Project planning
Development fundamentals
Feasibility
Market saturation
Project entitlement
Boat/RV feasibility

Design & Construction

Lifestyle storage
Design/building challenges
Unit mix
Multi-story trends
Energy codes
Planning and budgeting
Mistakes to avoid
Project principles
Conversions
Facility renovation
LED lighting
Case studies

If you prefer to purchase this guidebook in a digital format, click here. To view other guidebooks in the 2020 series, click here.

What's It Worth? Making, Managing, and Measuring Value: Self-Storage Facility

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:37:10 GMT

Understanding facility value is an important part of maximizing your self-storage investment. This book will help you understand, measure, manage, create and even increase asset value.

Authors: Michelle Gigowski and Timothy Moffit
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 278 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

What's It Worth? Making, Managing, and Measuring Value: Self-Storage Facility
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or simply maintain your self-storage property, understanding the factors that determine real estate and business value is an important part of your investment. In this book, authors Michelle Gigowski and Timothy Moffit apply valuation theory to help owners and investors understand how value within the asset class can be made, managed and measured.

The authors have experience as educators, analysts, appraisers and turnaround consultants, which enables them to assist readers connect the dots between valuation theory and practice. Topics include:

An overview of valuation
How value is created, managed and measured
Understanding self-storage as an asset class
An overview of the industry and real estate investment trusts
Self-storage facility financial statements
External and internal value drivers and destroyers
Self-storage value creation potential
10 self-storage turnaround tips
10 reasons to buy a self-storage facility
Valuation approaches and models
What’s my self-storage facility worth?
Opportunities for further value creation
Ideal property walk-through across markets

About the Authors
Michelle Gigowski writes and consults in health-care administration, real estate intensive valuation practices and entrepreneurship. Her research interest is in organizational value building. She has co-authored books, articles and case studies on valuation and entrepreneurship.

Timothy Moffit is chair of the Department of Economics and Business at Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, Mich. He holds a doctorate in business administration with a specialty in finance from Nova Southeastern University and a master’s in business administration from the Amos Tuck School at Dartmouth College. His teaching and research interests center on valuation theory, and the analysis and understanding of financial statements.

The “What’s It Worth?” series is published by Value It Press. Additional titles in the series examine valuation for mobile home parks and self-serve car washes.

Hot Storage [Mystery Novel]

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:36:56 GMT

Author Mary Mead creates intrigue in this mystery novel about the perils of self-storage manager Marlena Montoya, who must hunt for the truth when two men connected to the facility are murdered.

Author: Mary Mead
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 254 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Hot Storage [Mystery Novel]
Self-storage continues to be used as a moody setting in books and other forms of popular media. Author Mary Mead, best known for her mystery series of novels set in Monarch Beach, adds to the mix with a new mystery titled “Hot Storage.”

The tale centers on self-storage manager Marlena Montoya, who finds cartons of drugs in a unit that was supposed to be empty. It all goes downhill from there, as a county task force puts an undercover cop on the payroll, one of the owners gets personal, and the local detective stays for dinner. When two men are murdered and the victims are tied to the Jade Beach facility, it falls to Marlena to hunt for the truth with an assist from Monarch Beach detective John Kincaid.

Though “Hot Storage” isn’t officially part of the Monarch Beach series and introduces new characters, Kincaid is included as a familiar figure for dedicated readers.

About the Author
A transplanted Southerner and lung-cancer survivor, Mary Mead has a love for books that goes back to the cradle. She’s been a collector for most of her life, with her first copy of “Uncle Wiggly” still on her bookshelf. While being treated for cancer, she learned the importance of family and laughter, and writing books became a prominent entry on her bucket list. “My books are meant to entertain,” she says, “with maybe a little dose of knowledge, shared from my own experience.”

There are three books in the Monarch Beach series, beginning with “Out of the Blue” and followed by “Wild Blue Yonder” and “Bluebonnets.” Mead is working on a fourth installment, “Deep Blue See,” which will bring back Tee, Tim and the group from the Gem. Also on tap is “Blue Blazes,” which will be another trip to Monarch Beach.

Self Storage [Horror Fiction Novel]

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:36:43 GMT

Best-selling author Jay Bonansinga creates thrills and chills in this harrowing tale of a heroin addict and his son who are forced to face demons real and imagined while trapped inside a self-storage unit.

Author: Jay Bonansinga
Format: Hardcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 213 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Self Storage [Horror Fiction Novel]
Self-storage has crept into pop-culture consciousness thanks to reality television, comic books, horror films and, now, a psychological-horror novel by Jay Bonansinga, best known for penning the official “The Walking Dead” novel series. Published by Magnetik Ink in 2016, the book centers on Johnny Fitzgerald, a lonely, divorced graphic illustrator with a major heroin habit. When Johnny accidentally gets trapped inside a deserted self-storage facility with his 6-year-old son, he’s forced to face demons both real and imagined.

Father and son fight for their lives. They battle thirst, hunger and perhaps the worst human craving of all—heroin withdrawal. These trials are only the beginning of Johnny’s painful education in detox, because there’s something dark and terrifying behind Johnny’s dope-sick hallucinations ... something touched off by the self-storage facility itself!

“Self Storage” mixes the brutal surrealism of Chuck Palahniuk’s “Fight Club” with the dark fantasy of Clive Barker. The tale is “a surreal nightmare that is part ‘The Shining,’ part ‘Naked Lunch,’ part ‘Lost Weekend,’ and part photo album of my own life,” according to the author himself. “The fact that this book is the most personal book I’ve ever written is kind of scary—even to me—as well as the fact that the story takes you to places I thought I would never take a reader.”
Please note: This novel contains graphic scenes and mature language.

About the Author
Jay Bonansinga is the “New York Times” bestselling author of 23 books, including the Bram Stoker finalist “The Black Mariah” (1994), the International Thriller Writers Award finalist “Shattered” (2007), the wildly popular “Walking Dead” novels, and the acclaimed young-adult horror novel “Lucid” (2015). He’s worked in the film industry as well as created or co-created the stories for a number of video games in the “Walking Dead” universe.

Jay recently launched the multi-media company Magnetik Ink, which encompasses the genres of horror, suspense, noir crime and satire with collectible merchandise, independent films, television, books, comics, video games, short-story collections and more.

What people are saying about “Self Storage”:

“Not since Stephen King's ‘Misery’ have I been unable to put a book down until I finished the last page. Jay Bonansinga's ‘Self Storage’ is hands down the scariest, most claustrophobic novel I've read in years. Part thriller, part ghost story, part fever dream, it's a tale of love and redemption and the power locked within our own minds—and those of children. If you're a fan of ‘The Shining,’ you will fall head over heels in love with ‘Self Storage.’ This is a haunted house story for a new century, and for us old-schoolers as well.”
~Tamara Thorne, author of “The Ghosts of Ravencrest” and “Eternity”

"Are you afraid of the dark? Jay Bonansinga's ‘Self Storage’ is a harrowing, panic-laden read that takes you into the mind of a heroin addict in withdrawal who must care for his young son while trapped in darkness with no way out. A story of love and sacrifice that takes place in a self-storage unit that makes the one in ‘Silence of the Lambs’ look like a picnic."
~Alistair Cross, author of “The Crimson Corset” and “The Cliffhouse Haunting”

“’Self Storage’ is a killer! Jay Bonansinga takes no prisoners in this novel filled with intense horror, wicked humor and dynamic action. Wow…just wow!”
~Jonathan Maberry, author of “Predator One” and “Ghostwalkers”

Creating Wealth Through Self-Storage

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:36:00 GMT

Get tools to effectively find desirable self-storage properties, analyze risk and compete against well-funded investors. Learn how to acquire facilities and fulfill a strategic business plan.

Author: Mark Helm
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 123 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Creating Wealth Through Self-Storage
The old adage of “buy low and sell high” works, but it isn’t that cut and dry in today’s self-storage market. This is particularly true when self-storage properties are selling for a premium. It can be daunting to compete against well-funded operators and real estate investment trusts (REITs) for desirable facilities. This book is designed to give you the tools to effectively find quality properties, analyze risk and compete with the larger players for acquisitions. Author Mark Helm explains in detail how he learned to strategically acquire facilities to fulfill predetermined parameters and a business plan—all with limited startup funds.

Contents include:

An examination of self-storage as a real estate investment and how REITs approach the market
Developing a business strategy
Empowerment by creating a problem worth solving
Analyzing self-storage properties
Understanding letters of intent and contracts
Conducting due diligence
Structuring facilities as limited-liability companies
Determining the future cash flow of a facility
Real-life case study

If you prefer to purchase this book in a digital PDF format, click here.

About the Author
Mark Helm, CCIM, is a commercial real estate agent who started working with REITs in the mid-1990s to locate and purchase self-storage properties. As he learned the business, Mark struck out on his own to invest in self-storage and purchased his first project at the beginning of the 21st century. Through trial and error, he created a strategic system of analyzing and buying storage property, and today is working toward a goal of building a $60 million portfolio. Mark has also created a cloud-based, financial-analysis software program, “The Storage World Analyzer,” which is now available through the ISS Store.

The Self Storage Owner Operator Executive Leadership Guide

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:31:34 GMT

This guide contains high-level strategies for increasing the value of a storage asset, covering topics such as hiring, marketing, site "rentability," audits and operational reviews, revenue, expenses and more.

Author: Bob Copper, Owner, Self Storage 101
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 228 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

The Self Storage Owner Operator Executive Leadership Guide
This guide is the perfect companion for anyone responsible for the effective, efficient and profitable operation of a self-storage asset. It contains proven strategies for making great hiring decisions, investing in smart marketing and increasing the "rentability" of a self-storage facility. This book also guides the self-storage professional through the process of completing a facility audit and operational review, and discusses high-level strategies for increasing asset value. If you're a self-storage owner or operator, the Executive Leadership Guide is for you.

Topics include:

Staffing

Typical self-storage managers
The 21st-century manager
Hiring couples as a management team
Hiring goals and the overall process
Training plans and resources
Creating an effective compensation program

Marketing

Understanding the value of a rental
Effective marketing
Self-storage advertising
Creating materials
Referrals
Tracking results
Conversions

Operational Reviews/Audits

Common mistakes
Reasons to audit
What an audit should include
The process
Storage-unit management
The on-site residence
How employees steal

Asset Value

Setting goals
Revenue
Expenses
Increasing value
Increasing site "sell-ability"

Appendices

Making informed marketing decisions
Understanding management-software reports
I hate making collections calls!
Handing difficult customers
A step-by-step comprehensive operational audit
Self-storage operation audit worksheet

Bob Copper is the partner in charge of industry consulting firm Self Storage 101 and founder of Copper Storage Management, a third-party management company that specializes in automated self-storage operation. As a prominent consultant, author, speaker and trainer, Bob has worked extensively with hundreds of self-storage owners, operators and managers to develop strategies for operational improvement, revenue growth and value enhancement. As a self-storage owner himself, he has a unique perspective that relates to working with other operators. Bob and his team have conducted countless facility audits and operational reviews, market studies, and due-diligence projects. They are sought out for their unbiased opinions and many successful and productive years of experience. Bob's books, training webinars and live sessions are among the most popular in the business.

Self Storage Facility Operations Manual

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:30:50 GMT

This detailed, comprehensive guide instructs facility owners and managers in how to manage the day-to-day functions of a self-storage facility, from opening and closing the office to everything in between.

Author: Bob Copper, Owner, Self Storage 101
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 150 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Self Storage Facility Operations Manual
No self-storage facility can run effectively and efficiently without a comprehensive operations manual. This detailed, comprehensive guide instructs facility owners and managers in how to manage the day-to-day functions of a self-storage facility, from opening and closing the office to everything in between. It will assist industry professionals in setting forth the policies and procedures by which their company will operate.

Topics include:

Opening and closing the management office
Paperwork flow
Reviewing daily reports
Daily tasks and office set-up
Renting storage space of all kinds
Effective sales
Cross selling
Taking payments
Vacating a space
Managing delinquent tenants
The lien process
Handling upset customers
Selling merchandise
Disclosure of information
Miscellaneous customer issues
Facility safety and maintenance
Handling emergencies
Security procedures
Site forms appendix

Self Storage Employee Handbook

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:30:06 GMT

This handbook is a compilation of policies, procedures, conditions and expectations to guide employee/employer actions in the operation of a self-storage facility—a code of conduct and information source.

Author: Bob Copper, Owner, Self Storage 101
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 123 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Self Storage Employee Handbook
This employee handbook is a compilation of policies, procedures, working conditions and expectations established to guide staff and employer actions in the operation of a self-storage facility. It's a code of conduct that sets guidelines around appropriate behavior for working as part of the business. It also includes an at-will employee statement as well as information about employee compensation and benefits, and additional terms and conditions of employment.

Topics include:

Employee benefits
Company expectations
Personnel administration
Employment policies
Harassment policy
Job descriptions
Security checks
Standards of conduct
Acceptable activities
Disciplinary actions
Compensation and performance
Wage and salary policies
Insurance coverage
Much more

Note: While this comprehensive handbook addresses most aspects of the employee/employer relationship, there may be state-specific or other local issues that will affect your particular self-storage operation. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure compliance with any employment-related statutes relevant to their location.

Complete Self Storage Handbook

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:29:04 GMT

This concise and comprehensive handbook by industry expert Bob Copper contains all the tools the independent self-storage operator needs to run a successful business. It's a perfect day-to-day companion.

Author: Bob Copper, Owner, Self Storage 101
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 109 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Complete Self Storage Handbook
The independent self-storage owner/operator wears a number of hats during the day-to-day operation of his facility, and it can be challenging to juggle all the responsibilities. This concise and comprehensive handbook contains all the tools the independent facility operator needs to run a successful business. It's the perfect day-to-day companion to help you rent more space, maximize rental income, manage your time, conduct a facility audit and operational review, and use revenue-management tools to increase profit and asset value.

Topics include:

Understanding what drives rentals
Effective sales skills
The art of collecting more rent
A step-by-step facility audit
Mini audits
Tips for successful loss prevention
Audit forms
Revenue-management tools
Positively effecting rental income

Managing a Self Storage Property Effectively and Professionally

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:28:33 GMT

This book addresses the skills self-storage managers need to be successful: sales, collections and time management. Readers will learn to rent more space, collect more money and get it all done efficiently.

Author: Bob Copper, Owner, Self Storage 101
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 113 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Managing a Self Storage Property Effectively and Professionally
Self-storage is a highly manager-centric business. There are few business models in which the success or failure of the business is so clearly and intricately intertwined with the manager's skills, personality, customer-service attitude and common sense. Professional self-storage managers need three primary skills to succeed: sales, collections and time management. In this book, our author discusses all three in detail, helping managers to succeed at the highest levels of performance. Readers will learn how to rent more space, collect more money and get it all done in an efficient manner through this comprehensive yet simple-to-understand book.

Topics include:

Why self-storage managers fail to succeed
Characteristics of a successful manager
Customer motivations
Why you need and how to create an effective sales presentation
Why collections are important
Types of collections calls
Steps to effective collections
Documenting collections efforts
Effective time-management skills and tools
Time-management exercises

To view the companion workbook for this product, click here. To purchase a combination package that contains this book as well as the workbook for a discounted price, click here.

Managing a Self Storage Facility Training Workbook

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:27:48 GMT

This is a companion training tool for the book "Managing a Self Storage Property Effectively and Professionally." Facility operators can use these resources as part of their own in-house training program.

Author: Bob Copper, Owner, Self Storage 101
Format: Softcover (USPS Shipping Required)
Length: 44 Pages

NOTE: Please allow up to three business days for the processing of your order.

Managing a Self Storage Facility Training Workbook
This workbook is a companion training tool for the book "Managing a Self Storage Property Effectively and Professionally," also authored by Bob Copper. Facility operators can use these resources in tandem as part of their own in-house training program. The workbook walks the facility manager through the tools for operational success in an easy-to-understand manner: sales, collections and time management.

To learn more about the companion book, click here. To purchase a combination package that contains both products at a discounted price, click here.