Why We Love “Sticky Tenants” in Self-Storage
In the world of self-storage, there’s a term we absolutely love: “sticky tenants.” These are the renters who stay with us for years, providing a steady, reliable stream of income while forming a long-term relationship with our facilities. At Boring & Co., we’ve refined our approach to attracting, converting, closing, and delighting these ideal tenants—because in self-storage, retention is just as important as acquisition.
So, what makes a sticky tenant? They’re the ones who rent space for long-term needs—whether it’s a business owner storing inventory, a homeowner managing life transitions, or someone with an ongoing storage requirement. These tenants aren’t looking for short-term convenience; they’re in it for the long haul.
Here’s how we make sure we attract, convert, and keep them coming back year after year.
1. Attracting the Perfect Sticky Tenant
The journey starts with marketing. But not just any marketing—strategic, targeted messaging that speaks directly to long-term storage users.
Focusing on the right audience: We tailor our advertising to attract business owners, homeowners in transition, and people with lifestyle needs that require storage for years, not months.
Emphasizing stability and security: Sticky tenants care about reliability. We highlight our facility’s clean, safe, and well-maintained environment, ensuring they see us as a trustworthy long-term solution.
Offering the right unit mix: We ensure our properties have a variety of unit sizes, climate-controlled options, and flexible leasing terms that cater to their needs.
2. Converting Leads Into Long-Term Renters
Once we attract potential sticky tenants, we optimize the conversion process to ensure they choose us over the competition.
Seamless online experience: Our website makes it easy to find unit availability, pricing, and online rental options, removing friction from the decision-making process.
Responsive customer service: Whether it’s via phone, email, or in-person visits, our team is trained to provide quick, knowledgeable, and friendly support.
Clear, compelling value propositions: We emphasize why our facility is different—from 24/7 access and state-of-the-art security to convenient payment options and superior customer service.
3. Closing the Deal with Incentives and Customer Care
Sticky tenants need a reason to commit, and we make sure to provide those reasons.
Move-in specials tailored for long-term renters: Instead of short-term discounts that attract temporary tenants, we offer promotions like the "6-Month Commitment Discount" or "Prepay and Save" plans to incentivize long-term leases.
Hassle-free onboarding: We make move-in day simple with helpful guidance, on-site assistance, and easy digital lease signings.
Proactive engagement: A warm welcome call, an onboarding email, and a friendly check-in after the first month set the tone for a lasting relationship.
4. Delighting and Retaining Our Sticky Tenants
At Boring & Co., we believe the key to keeping tenants for years is to provide continuous value.
Top-notch maintenance and security: A well-kept, well-lit, and secure facility makes tenants feel confident in storing with us long-term.
Automatic payment options and easy account management: Convenience keeps people from moving out! We offer autopay, online account access, and hassle-free renewals.
Customer appreciation and engagement: Periodic check-ins, holiday thank-you notes, and special promotions for long-term tenants foster loyalty.
Expanding to meet their needs: When a business tenant grows and needs more space, we make upgrading seamless. When a homeowner needs an additional unit, we provide solutions on the spot.
The Bottom Line: Sticky Tenants Are the Best Tenants
Self-storage success isn’t just about filling units—it’s about keeping them filled with the right renters. Sticky tenants provide predictable revenue, lower turnover costs, and help build a strong community around our facilities.
At Boring & Co., we don’t just love sticky tenants—we actively cultivate them. Through targeted marketing, seamless conversion, customer-first service, and ongoing engagement, we ensure our tenants stay with us for years, creating a win-win for both our business and our customers.
Happy Tenant Tuesday, and here’s to celebrating the renters who make our business thrive!
