Self Storage Investing

If you search Amazon for books related to the self storage industry, you’ll find more than enough. Most of them contain relevant information that will give you a comprehensive understanding of self storage. You’ll get the fundamentals of how to make money by investing in self storage properties but not much else.

However, if you want more than a “how-to” book,, get a copy of The Working Class Guide to Building Wealth With Self Storage – A Path From Rags to Riches.

It was written by John Manes, Partner and CEO of Pinnacle Storage Properties. This book melds inspiration and motivation with the knowledge that you need to move forward. In fact, after reading this book, not only will you move ahead, but you’ll take others with you.

The Working Class Guide to Building Wealth With Self Storage – A Path From Rags to Riches

Many people would describe John Manes as a self-made man who overcame his humble beginnings to become a successful business investment strategist. Those who know John recognize that he is not as focused on making money as he is on “paying it forward.”

John did not allow his humble background to stand in his way of achieving the life he wanted. He is passionate about sharing his personal stories so that he can play a small role in empowering others.

This book tells the story of a man with a less than affluent background and no formal education who became a force in the self storage industry. He not only built three $100M companies but was able to help countless people increase their wealth despite their circumstances.

Self Storage Investment is for Everyone

If you think owning and investing in commercial real estate is only for the wealthy and well-connected, think again. While having access to a significant amount of capital can help, it’s not the only way.

Investing in commercial real estate is a solid approach to accumulating wealth and securing financial freedom for anyone. Nevertheless, to help you get started, it’s crucial to have access to the right information.

If you don’t know where to begin your journey, you’ll find straightforward guidance in these easy-to-read pages. It’s a common sense, working-class resource for anyone who wants to venture into commercial real estate.

Keep in mind that even though this book is written from a self-storage viewpoint, the concepts can easily translate to other real estate asset classes.

An Easy-to-Read, Relatable Book

John Manes has shared his story, in his own words. This simple, easy to consume, format provides a glimpse into how his values were shaped in childhood. His background made him the man he is today.

He shares the significance of having a personal board of directors. These are the people in his life who have helped him make hard decisions and face day-to-day challenges. Included in this chapter is a short list of questions to help you choose your own board of directors.

Building a high-performing team is another topic that John addresses. He finds that mutual trust is a critical factor in building a strong team. His belief is that concern for your company as well as your team is crucial. Without that trust your business is at risk.

Among other engaging subjects, you’ll find chapters on choosing the right marketing agency, networking, and building your personal brand.

The final chapter holds a powerful message that should help get you started on your own journey. If you don’t read anything else, read Chapter 11.

The Nuts and Bolts of Self Storage

Of course, you will learn some important aspects of the self-storage industry – from why self storage is recession proof to managing day-to-day operations.
You’ll read about financial and business skills that you need to be successful. You’ll discover important lessons about how money works and the distinctions between residential and commercial real estate investment.

By the time you’ve finished reading, you’ll know why self-storage is a great investment. There are clear explanations of how to structure a self storage deal, underwrite that deal, and perform due diligence.

Final Thoughts

John Manes isn’t the only person who can tell you how to invest in self-storage properties. As mentioned above, there are many books on this subject. This one, however, gives you the insight of an already successful investor and business owner – a mentor who cares as much about the other guy that he does about himself.