How to run a 2‑hour market survey most operators skip

Before you set or adjust rates, you need to know what the market charges. A 5-facility survey takes 2 hours and gives you the pricing intelligence that most operators skip entirely. Call competing facilities, introduce yourself as a potential tenant or prospective buyer researching the market. Ask what they charge per space by type— open air, covered, enclosed. Ask if they have availability. If they mention a waiting list, note it. That's evidence of supply constraint in the market. Visit in person if possible. Seeing the product behind the price matters. A competing facility charging $180 per month for covered storage in poor condition is different from one charging $195 for the same category but with better amenities.