Too Much Stuff
One of the primary reasons people rent a storage unit is that they have too much stuff. Occasionally this occurs when downsizing to a smaller home, when moving, or when between homes. Some collectors don’t have space for their collections, and those who have inherited items they don’t need or aren’t presently using.
But owning too much stuff isn’t certainly a good reason to rent a storage unit. This is particularly true if you consider how much you’ll spend on the monthly rent in comparison with the value of the items you want to keep. Spending an extra $100 a month on a storage unit, for example, means those items will cost you $1,200 a year to own and not use. Before renting a storage unit, it’s a good idea to examine why you want to keep the things you plan to store and, if it’s possible, discover other alternatives to a storage unit.
Storing Valuables
One thing that can dramatically change the equation on value and storage is if you have valuable items you want to keep but don’t have space for them at home for one reason or another. Of course, if you have high-end valuables, be sure to go for climate-controlled storage. Things like artwork, musical instruments, antiques, photos, and electronics can be damaged by heat or cold and should never be stored in an outdoor storage situation.
Creative Alternatives
If you have items you want or need to keep but it doesn’t seem worth the cost of a storage unit, think about other, innovative ways in which you could keep your stuff – or not. In many cases, having too much stuff is a product of being unwilling to let things go, even things you will likely never use. If you can overcome your attachment to these items, you might be able to sell or give them away instead.
Then again, if you have items you can’t part with but don’t necessarily need a storage unit to keep, consider asking a friend to keep or store it for you until you have the space to take it back. A friend or family member with an empty spare room could use that antique furniture, piano, or framed artwork you don’t currently need but want to keep. Or, get creative with the spaces in your own home to make room for your things. Underneath staircases, attics, and garage shelving can all increase usable storage space and let you hang on to a few more of your cherished belongings.
While there are some situations where a storage unit may be necessary, most of the time, there are other and less expensive ways to deal with having more stuff than we need. Ultimately, the choice is up to you! But, if you do feel like a bigger rental home would give you not only more living space but more storage space as well, give Real Property Management Clarity Team a call! You can browse our listings and apply online when you find one that catches your eye.