As summer winds down, self-storage operators are already looking ahead to the slower season. Tune in to the Self Storage Insight Podcast with Ben Shirey and Matt Markham as they dive into why demand is still strong through late summer and early fall—especially with college move-ins—now is the time to prepare strategies that minimize the impact of the upcoming lull. From student-focused rental options to smart rate adjustments, having a plan in place can make a big difference.
One key focus is the student rental market. Operators in college towns should consider flexible options like semester-based rates, prepayment plans, or auto-pay requirements to retain students longer and reduce turnover. At the same time, it’s important not to discount too heavily—parents are often willing to pay for security and convenience during move-in season.
Rate strategies are another area where preparation matters. Incremental increases scheduled twice a year tend to perform better than one large annual jump, especially if tenants are conditioned to expect them. Operators can even time increases during the holiday season, when tenants are less likely to move out.
Ultimately, success during the slow months comes down to knowing your market, tracking occupancy trends, and testing new strategies. Whether it’s leveraging student rentals, offering price locks, or fine-tuning rate increases, taking action now helps position your facility for a stronger start in 2026.
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