5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Self-Storage Facility
Selling a self-storage facility can be one of the most profitable decisions you make as an owner—but only if it's done right. Whether you're selling to retire, diversify investments, or take advantage of a strong market, it's critical to avoid the common pitfalls that can derail your sale or cost you thousands.
In this post, we'll walk through five mistakes we frequently see self-storage owners make and show you how to avoid them. If you're planning to sell in 2025, this is a must-read.
1. Waiting Too Long to Sell
Many owners wait until their facility needs major repairs or their occupancy has dipped before they consider selling. While understandable, this timing puts you at a disadvantage. Buyers pay top dollar for well-performing, clean, and stabilized properties.
What to do instead:
Track your facility's financial performance monthly.
If occupancy is over 85% and maintenance is under control, it's a good time to consider listing.
Don't try to time the market perfectly—conditions are strong now, and waiting may not pay off.
✅ Related: Is 2025 the right time to sell your storage facility?
2. Not Preparing Financial Documents
One of the fastest ways to lose a serious buyer is by having disorganized or incomplete financials. Buyers want to see 2-3 years of profit and loss statements, rent rolls, tax returns, and operating expenses.
Avoid this by:
Working with your accountant to prepare clean, accurate reports.
Using a simple spreadsheet or software like QuickBooks to track income and expenses.
Creating a digital folder with organized versions of all financials, lease agreements, and utility records.
Buyers use this information to calculate value and risk. Poor documentation can delay or even kill a deal.
3. Overpricing the Property
Sellers often overvalue their property based on emotional attachment or outdated comps. The result? Limited interest and a longer time on the market.
How to avoid this mistake:
Work with a broker or valuation expert who specializes in self-storage.
Review recent sales of comparable facilities in your region.
Be realistic about your location, unit mix, and condition.
✅ Tip: Get a free valuation of your facility based on current market trends.
4. Failing to Make Basic Repairs
Deferred maintenance is a red flag for buyers. Even minor issues like broken lights, overgrown landscaping, or damaged unit doors can reduce your facility's perceived value.
What buyers expect:
Functional gates, secure locks, and working security cameras.
Clean driveways and well-maintained fencing.
Clear signage and no visible trash or debris.
Small upgrades can lead to big returns. Think fresh paint, weed removal, and updated lighting.
5. Going It Alone Without Professional Help
Many owners try to sell on their own to save on commissions, but end up losing time and leaving money on the table. Selling self-storage is different from selling other commercial properties.
Why hiring an expert matters:
A self-storage broker understands buyer expectations and pricing strategies.
They can market to a national database of investors.
Professionals handle deal structure, timelines, and negotiations—so you don't have to.
✅ Learn more: Why it pays to sell with a self-storage expert
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common mistakes can help you sell faster, reduce buyer objections, and get a better price for your self-storage facility. The 2025 market is strong, but preparation is key. With the right support and a proactive plan, you'll be in a position to close a deal that meets your goals.
✨ Ready to find out what your facility is worth? Request your free seller consultation today and take the first step toward a profitable sale.