In today’s economy, many families see downsizing as a solution to 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.
There are some important steps to take to. use free resources to market your self-storage in all situations.
- Google Business Profile
- Facebook & Instagram Profiles
- Google Reviews
- Refresh your website
- Photos
- Consistent posting
Google Business Profile.
Every business needs needs a 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 already created, 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. Additionally, you can post on Google similar to posting on other social media. Upload a new picture for the day with a brief description and call to action. This regular posting works with the algorithm to increase web traffic.
Facebook & Instagram Profiles.
Social media is a free, easy way to advertise your business. Make sure that the 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.
Post consistently. Daily posting on both platforms is necessary to grow your following and to reach new customers. Posts don’t need to be fancy, but they do need to solve a problem that the consumer might have.
Google Reviews.
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).
Refresh 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 the 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.
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.
Consistent posting.
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, 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. These free tools to market your business are effective when used correctly.
At Coastal Storage, 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.