Deciding when to hire a manager for your self-storage facility depends on your goals, capacity, and available time. In this episode of the Self Storage Insight podcast, Ben Shirey and Matt Markham break down when it makes sense to bring on part-time or full-time help, how facility size influences staffing needs, and what compensation plans work best.
Typically, facilities under 200 units are run by owner-operators. Between 200–600 units, part-time or full-time management may be needed, depending on how involved the owner wants to remain. Beyond 600 units, a full-time manager is almost always necessary.
Ben and Matt emphasize aligning manager incentives with business goals—whether that's boosting occupancy, increasing rental rates, or improving customer service. Well-paid, motivated managers tend to drive better results, from lower delinquencies to higher revenue.
Ultimately, if your time is more valuable elsewhere—or you're ready to step back—it may be time to invest in the right person to move your facility forward.