Defining your Niche Podcast From single family to 14 self storages in 6 years!
Aug 1, 2025
Jon Farling, a self-storage investor, shares his journey from single-family rentals to owning 14 storage facilities in just six years. He discusses the financial benefits of self-storage, innovative methods for raising capital, and how AI is transforming the industry. With intriguing tales of bizarre encounters at his facilities, Jon highlights the unpredictability of this business. He underscores the importance of effective systems and teamwork while exploring future growth opportunities in the self-storage sector.
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Jon's Entry Into Self-Storage
- Jon Farling started in real estate with single-family rentals before transitioning to self-storage in 2019.
- He bought two facilities initially and quit his full-time job after acquiring a third during the pandemic.
First Self-Storage Deal Story
- Jon's first four storage deals came from a direct mail campaign targeting tertiary markets.
- His first property cost $375K including improvements and is now worth over a million.
Risks of Syndication Explained
- Syndicated deals are effectively 100% financed, which increases financial risk especially with rising interest rates.
- For new investors, building a foundation with personal capital is safer than syndicating immediately.