Too Much Stuff
One of the top reasons people rent a storage unit is that they have too much stuff. Sometimes this happens when downsizing to a smaller home, when moving, or when between homes. Some collectors don’t have space for their collections, and those who have inherited items they don’t need or aren’t currently using.
However, keeping too much stuff isn’t really a compelling reason to rent a storage unit. This is particularly the situation if you compute the sum you’ll spend on the monthly rent versus the value of the items you want to retain. Paying an extra $100 a month on a storage unit, for instance, indicates those things will cost you $1,200 a year to own and not use. Before renting a storage unit, it is essential to figure out why you want to keep the things you intend to store and, if needed, discover other alternatives to a storage unit.
Storing Valuables
One factor that can substantially change the equation on value and storage is if you own valuable items you want to keep but don’t have space for them at the house for one reason or another. Of course, if you have high-end valuables, be sure to make a choice on climate-controlled storage. Things such as artwork, musical instruments, antiques, photos, and electronics can be damaged by heat or cold and must never be kept in outdoor storage circumstances.
Creative Alternatives
If you have something you want or need to keep, but it doesn’t seem worth the cost of a storage unit, dwell on other, imaginative ways you could keep your stuff – or not. In many cases, having too much stuff is a product of being unwilling to let things go, even things you will likely never use. If you can overcome your attachment to these belongings, you might be able to sell or give them away alternatively.
On the flip-side, if you have things you can’t get rid of but don’t necessarily need a storage unit to keep, try asking a friend to keep or store it for you until you have the storage space to get them back. A friend or family member with an empty spare room could utilize that antique furniture, piano, or framed artwork you don’t currently need but prefer to keep. Or else, get creative with the spaces in your own home to make room for your belongings. Underneath staircases, attics, and garage shelving may all bring usable storage space and let you hang on to a few more of your cherished belongings.
Even though there are a few situations where a storage unit may be required, most of the time, there are other less expensive ways to deal with having more stuff than we need. In spite of everything, the decision is dependent upon you! Nevertheless, if you think that a bigger rental home would give you not only more living space but more storage space as well, give Real Property Management Viking a call! You can browse our listings and apply online when you find one that catches your eye.