The real estate market nationwide is hot and SoCal is no exception. In December, 87,000 homes changed hands — a 21% increase from the year before. In February, home prices hit an all-time high, surging to a median price of $619,750. That’s an increase of 15% in just a year.
While apartment rents have pretty much stabilized so far in 2021, an average one-bedroom apartment can still run $1,511 a month and $1,900+ for a two-bedroom.
You probably already know this, but it’s expensive to live in L.A. Space is at a premium. It’s why so many people have moved on, downsized, or wound up in a smaller place than they’d like. It’s also why self-service storage facilities are in such demand.
In 2020, self-service storage facilities were more popular than ever. In Los Angeles, storage facilities took in more than $92 million in transactions last year. That represents a lot of people putting their belongings in storage.
There’s another trend that’s impacting the housing market. So many people are moving that many are finding it difficult to book a mover to help. With 30- and 60-day waits becoming more normal, people are using short-term storage as a way to manage their belongings during the wait.
Can I Find Storage Los Angeles Has Available?
Even with the high demand, there are still places you can rent safe and secure storage units in Los Angeles.
A Checklist for Finding the Best Self-Storage Los Angeles Offers
The first step is to figure out exactly what you want to store and how much space you’ll need.
Inventory Your Items
Take an inventory of the items you need to store. Putting things in sealed containers can help you stack things more easily and more accurately measure how much space you need. You’ll also need to pay attention to the weight if you plan to stack things so they don’t crush items underneath.
You’ll want to think about which items you will need to access regularly and which are in storage for longer periods. You’ll want easier access to the things you need more often and it can impact not only how you stack things but how much space you need.
You’ll also want to build in some extra space to be able to navigate around stacks to get to what you want.
Decide on Type of Unit
Once you’ve figured out how much space your belongings will take up, you need to decide on the size of the unit you need. Obviously, a bigger space will be more expensive so plan accordingly.
Most storage unit facilities in L.A. will have three types of sizes:
● Small Storage Units: 5’ x 5’ and 5’ x 10’
● Medium Storage Units: 7.5’ x 10’ and 10 x 10’
● Large Storage Units: 10’ x 15’, 10’ x 20’, and 10’ x 30’
While you want to use space efficiently and not overpay for space you’re not using, you’re always better off getting a storage unit slightly bigger than what you might think to make it easier to move around or add additional items later.
Another consideration is climate control. Make sure you rent a climate-controlled unit for anything that’s typically stored inside or has significant value. Mold, mildew, and humidity can do damage in the L.A. heat.
Search for Storage Los Angeles Facilities
The easiest way to find a storage location that fits your needs is to go to a website like Self Storage Finders that lets you compare sites around the LA area by location, size, and offers from different companies. It can save you quite a bit of time versus calling or going to each of their websites.
Often, you can find storage facilities that offer discounts for new customers or incentives like first months’ rent for free.
Visits Facilities
Once you’ve narrowed down the list, it’s time for an on-site visit. Operators may make their facility look great online, but you always want to check it out firsthand to be sure you know what you’re getting.
When you’re there, you will want to pay attention to some key things. After all, you’re going to be keeping your things there, so you want to make sure you’re comfortable.
● Does the facility appear to be well-maintained and is it clean? A dirty facility is a warning sign.
● Is the area security-controlled with gates, restricted access, and security cameras?
● Do they provide on-site surveillance or overnight guards?
● Is there adequate lighting to avoid dark areas, especially if you want to access your unit at night?
● Can you use your own lock on the unit so that only you have access?
In short, do you feel like it’s a place that your things will be safe and secure?
You’ll also want to look at the specific space you’re thinking about renting. Envision your belonging there and see if it feels right.