Site in the Spotlight - 2009

Owners:	Larry & Braden Smithing
Location:	Layton, UT
Specs:	37,670 sq ft, 187 rentable units
Color:	Classic Beige and Cedar Red doors/trim
Web:	www.fivestarstorage.net

For this issue’s site in the spotlight, we are interviewing Braden Smithing, owner of Five Star Storage. The buildings were erected by Mike Johnson of Johnson Construction in Bluffdale, UT.

How long have you been in the self-storage industry?

Two years.

What profession did you hold before entering self-storage?

I was a delivery driver for a small package service.

What sparked your interest in self-storage?

Having used self-storage personally for over 10 years, it seemed like a good investment – low maintenance and reliable. So I decided to give it a try. Now I write myself checks.

How did you choose Trachte as your building supplier?

I met Jerad Pearson at Trachte’s Seminar in Salt Lake, worked out some plans, and shopped it around. I picked Trachte due to Jerad’s service, and a fair price. From the start, everything that was promised was delivered – even the smallest details.

What are the architectural features of your site?

The site features a full textured red block perimeter, which adds a nice look. The community required the block. The buildings have red standing seam roofs, with the visible perimeter pitched higher. There’s a full selection of storage units, including climate control and large units up to 12x45’ for boats and RVs. Killer landscaping is the final touch, for the appearance that is necessary in an upscale community.

What gives your site a competitive advantage?

Location and curb appeal have made the site a success. Additionally, we have a comprehensive security system; including door alarms on every unit, video surveillance, monitors in the lobby, and controlled gate access. Lots of lights contribute to a sense of security. We kind of went overboard – it’s really well lit. The climate control storage is also well lit, and is carpeted.

Who is your target market?

Five Star Storage serves mainly residential customers, as well as a good number of military families. We’re just 5 minutes from Hill Air Force base. Located in a relatively affluent area, an on-site manager provides top notch service and ensures that the facility remains spotless.

How do you market your facility?

Due to a good location, we don’t need to do much marketing and advertising. Drive-by and walk-in customers make up the majority of our business. Marketing activity includes yellow page advertising, card decks (direct mail) and of course, the web site.