Busting Through Self Storage Myths
Self Storage is a popular option for those who need to free up space in their home. However, there are a lot of misconceptions that surround the concept. We at Albuquerque Self Storage would like to address and clear up some of those myths.
- Self Storage is Too Expensive
Every unit pricing plan is different. What you pay for depends on what you need. If you need a larger unit, say a 330-square foot unit that can fit the furnishings for a four bedroom home, you can expect to pay more than a 24-square foot unit for seasonal items.
Any long-term commitment can seem expensive, but some storage units are extremely reasonably priced. All units are priced based on their size and some companies base their price on how longer you’ll be using the unit, how you pay, and how much you pay upfront. For example, we give price breaks if you pay in advance for 6 months or longer.
All of our units at Albuquerque Self Storage are reasonably priced and we offer regular promotions, such as a free security lock upon rental, to help ease your financial concerns!
2. My Unit is Unsecure
Actually, storage units are often more secure than your front door! Our units are located in a gated facility that has controlled access during our business hours. Our on-site manager and security officials will assist you and check the area frequently.
We provide new locks for all units too, so you can be sure that no other key exists to your unit. Our facility is also extremely well-lit at all times during the day and night.
You can also check on your unit whenever you feel the need to. Just be sure you check the lock before you leave!
If you have any security concerns, consider insuring your items and create a list with photographs of everything you have stored in the unit. This will help in the rare occurrence of damage or loss of items.
3. Storage is For Long-Term Use Only
Most companies offer a month-to-month leasing option for short-term storage needs. If you do need long-term storage, ask if the company can offer a discount for paying a few months in advance when you rent the unit.
4. Storage Units are Inaccessible
This is not true at all! Some companies allow 24/7 drive-up access, while others are only available during office hours for maximum security. Accessibility varies with each company, so be sure you know their schedule and your needs. If you need to access your unit often, consider a company that offers 24/7 access.
All of our units are accessible by vehicle and moving trucks.
Our office hours and our gate hours are as follows:
Daylight savings time
Open 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week!
Standard time
Open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week!
Closed only major holidays.
5. Storage Units are Dark and Dirty
Not all units are treated the same. Our facility is well-lit, gated, and maintained. Some facilities are completely indoors and others, like ours at Albuquerque Self Storage, are drive-up units. Because our units are only accessible during business hours, it’s rare that you’ll be caught in the dark!
A common part of the lease is for the prior user to clean out their unit before they hand in their keys. We also ask that you sweep the inside of it before you move in, in case any dust or debris from the prior user was left behind. Though many companies do not clean their units between users, inspections are conducted after someone vacates it to ensure the unit is in good condition and clean.
If you’re worried about pests, fear not! We are a clean facility that runs off pesky critters.
Many of the pest complaints you may see online when you’re researching any storage company are often caused by tenants not following the rental agreement. Some items, such as food, are not allowed in units for this very reason. If you’re still concerned, check out our blog on how to protect yourself from mice and bugs.
6. My Storage Unit Will Be Auctioned Off
Your unit will not be auctioned off if you’re late on a single payment. Storage Auctions are typically reserved for those who have not paid for their unit for a period of time and after numerous unsuccessful attempts to contact the unit’s owner.
Your unit is safe if you’re late on a payment, as long as you talk with the storage unit company to set up a payment schedule or switch payment methods. It is extremely important to pay on time, but if you lapse on one payment, you will not lose your items.
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