15 July 2026

Case Study: How We Transformed Performance at a Transition Property in Virginia Beach, VA

In January 2025, a self-storage facility in Virginia Beach, Virginia transitioned to SAM’s third-party management. At the time of the transition, the property was facing operational inefficiencies, deferred maintenance, and a highly competitive market, all of which contributed to underperformance.

Working closely with ownership, SAM implemented a comprehensive turnaround strategy that combined operational best practices, targeted marketing initiatives, revenue optimization, and strategic capital improvements. This case study highlights the key actions taken and the measurable results achieved, demonstrating the impact of a collaborative, full-service management approach.

Transition Date: January 2025
Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Hallway of indoor temperature-controlled storage units in Virginia Beach

 

 Results

  • Current Occupancy: 74.6% 
    • Up 22.8% from date of transition
  • Current Delinquency: 4%
    • Down 275% from date of transition
  • Current Close Rate: 100%
  • NOI Increase YoY: 344%
    • Data compares Jan.-June 2025 to Jan.-June 2026
  • Current ARs: 0%
    • Down 148.7% from date of transition

*All data is current as of June 30, 2026.

 

Challenges

The property transitioned to SAM’s management facing significant operational and market challenges. Located in a highly competitive, price-sensitive area of Virginia Beach, the facility competed with multiple nearby operators, including a competitor within walking distance.

The climate-controlled buildings lacked privacy due to chain-link partitions, the HVAC system had years of deferred maintenance, and two of the property’s nine buildings required demolition and reconstruction due to their condition.

 

SAM’s Solutions

Operational Excellence

SAM restructured the on-site team and provided ongoing coaching through weekly district manager visits, sales training, customer call reviews, and hands-on support from district and regional leadership. Our revenue management team implemented strategic pricing, promotions, and delinquency management while introducing additional revenue streams.

Marketing and Leasing Strategy

To increase occupancy and drive qualified leads, we optimized the property’s website, strengthened SEO and AI search visibility, launched targeted paid media and remarketing campaigns, actively managed online reviews, offered exclusive online promotions, and expanded local marketing efforts through community outreach and referral programs.

Facility Improvements

In partnership with ownership, SAM completed significant capital improvements, including replacing all drive-up doors, repainting the property, rebuilding the climate-controlled buildings with new electrical systems, and installing a new gate and access control system to enhance the customer experience and improve operational efficiency.

 

Before and After Comparison of Temperature-Controlled Units

Before
After - Indoor Temperature-Controlled Storage Units in Virginia Beach, VA

After

 

Are you interested in how our third-party management solutions can enhance your business? Send us an email at info@storageasset.com to connect!