Gabfocus Self Storage Podcast

Is your self storage facility ready for the future—or falling behind? In this episode, Nigel Kreft from Elevate Structures joins Tommy Nguyen and Melissa Huff to talk about how to keep your property competitive, profitable, and positioned for growth through the right upgrades and expansions. We discuss: When and why to upgrade or expand (from occupancy struggles to prepping for a sale) How to time improvements around seasons, customer impact, and ROI The upgrades that deliver the biggest return (and the ones that matter long-term, even with delayed ROI) Expert tips for roofing, fencing, gates, access systems, and landscaping How to decide between raising rates, expanding, or acquiring Common construction pitfalls and how to avoid them What to know about budgeting, vendors, and scheduling before breaking ground The three upgrades every operator should prioritize: security, functional doors, and quality roofing Whether you’re battling competition, planning to sell, or simply want to keep your facility thriving, this episode will help you make smart decisions that pay off now—and years down the road. This webinar originally aired on July 24, 2025 . Watch the YouTube replay- Webinar of this Episode Guest: Nigel Kreft (Elevate Structures) Hosts: Tommy Nguyen & Melissa Huff Brought to you by the teams at StoragePug and Lighthouse Storage Solutions

Explore the crucial role of facility managers in the self-storage industry as they navigate the complexities of compensation and incentives. Discover what strategies to avoid and learn how to align pay with business goals effectively. The importance of training and setting clear expectations emerges as key factors for success. Hear about maintaining operational efficiency and optimizing revenue while fostering strong relationships with tenants. Plus, enjoy the lighter side of travel experiences that bring a smile!

Whether you plan to sell next year or in 20 years, one thing is certain: you won’t own your self storage facility forever. So how do you ensure it’s gaining—and retaining—value? In this episode, we explore what it means to steward your storage asset with the future in mind. We break down three key areas that directly impact your facility’s long-term value: ✅ Up-to-date procedures that ensure smooth operations and make your facility attractive to buyers or successors 📈 Revenue management strategies to drive consistent growth and uncover missed income opportunities 🛠️ Capital improvements that actually pay off and keep your facility competitive in the market For those preparing to exit the industry or just wanting to build a stronger business, this episode offers practical ways to protect and grow the value of your facility—starting today. Episode resources: Policies and Procedures Episode Don't forget to subscribe to Lighthouse Storage Solutions on YouTube to get alerts for our upcoming video podcast. Hosts: Josh Huff & Melissa Huff Produced by Lighthouse Storage Solutions

Social media is making a comeback in the self-storage industry! A recent META update allows business posts to be indexed by Google, boosting visibility. With Google enhancing search through AI, unique, quality content is crucial. The discussion highlights the importance of tailored, location-specific marketing to engage customers effectively. Social platforms, including Reddit, are now influential in search results. Plus, the hosts dive into the versatility of the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 for enhancing your online presence.

James Hatfield from LiveSwitch and Michael Brevdeh from Cubby bring their tech expertise to the self-storage industry. They delve into essential tools every facility should have and reveal often overlooked features that can boost operations. Listeners gain insights into automating workflows while understanding which tasks should remain personal. The duo also discusses the signs that indicate a tech upgrade is due and explores emerging trends like AI and smart tools, ensuring operators are well-equipped for the future of storage management.

Clear, intentional signage isn’t just for looks—it can shape the entire customer experience, reduce confusion, and cut down on unnecessary phone calls. In this episode, we break down the essential signs every facility should have and why they matter. We cover: Why your main sign should be simple and brand-driven—no phone numbers required The one sign every facility needs How to guide tenants effectively with keypad instructions and move-out signage The importance of directional signs for large or awkwardly laid-out facilities What to include (and what to avoid) with security signage The difference between professional, purposeful signage and visual clutter Seasonal tips for amenity signs that highlight climate control, RV/boat parking, and more We were inspired for this topic by our recent consulting project for Access Storage and recorded this on location from their rustic red barn in French Lick, Indiana (during a heat index of 106°!). Hosts: Josh Huff & Melissa Huff Produced by Lighthouse Storage Solutions

Discover strategies to tackle the challenge of competing against low introductory rates in self-storage. Learn how effective target marketing and unique promotions can set your business apart. Emphasize the importance of rate guarantees and clear communication to enhance your appeal. Customer feedback is key; it shapes growth and strengthens your online presence. Plus, explore how urgency and AI can streamline marketing efforts, making it easier for customers to find the right storage solution swiftly.

Sometimes real life just smacks you in the face. That was our week, and it happens to us all. If you run a small business, like self storage, it can hit a little different. What happens to your business if you get that call or text that forces you to focus all of your attention on something else? If you have to step away, will your business survive? Today we focus on some simple practices that can help you handle those real life moments and still keep your business going. Planning margin in to your schedule, automation, and using tech are just a few of the areas we touch on. But the most important takeaway - if you are faced with the choice of real life or your business, always choose real life. The broken gate will still be there in the morning. Hosts: Josh Huff & Melissa Huff Produced by Lighthouse Storage Solutions

What do you do when a tenant passes away while renting a storage unit? This was the opening question AI came up with... Hopefully, no one has ever passed away in your office while renting a unit, but dealing with an existing tenant who has died happens more often than you think. This is one of the most uncomfortable but critical situations self storage operators face—and getting it wrong can come with serious legal consequences. In this episode, we break down the must-know legal and practical steps operators need to take when a tenant dies. They cover everything from probate considerations to next-of-kin contact, and how to avoid common missteps that could land your business in hot water. Key topics include: Legal obligations when a tenant dies Understanding your lien rights in these situations Why having a secondary contact in your lease matters When to hold off on selling the contents of a unit Practical advice on handling the emotional side with surviving family Steps you should take before this ever becomes an issue If you’ve never dealt with this situation before, you probably will. Death is a part of life, and hopefully your business can be a part of the solution rather than adding to the stress. Hosts: Josh Huff & Melissa Huff Produced by Lighthouse Storage Solutions

Andrew Sherrard, owner of Reliable Storage and former CMO of T-Mobile, shares his insights on optimizing occupancy. He dives deep into the three types of occupancy and reveals that low performance isn't just about rates. Learn how missed calls and poor scheduling could be major leaks in your strategy. Sherrard discusses smart rate strategies, the pros and cons of promos, and emphasizes retaining the right tenants over just filling spaces. His rapid-fire tips offer practical, cost-effective ways to enhance performance and boost occupancy.