Container storage lot on a small plot of land

Homeowners who are moving or downsizing, contractors, small online sellers, RV and boat owners, and people between homes.

Monthly rent per unit, with extras such as lock sales, late fees and tenant insurance. Income grows as you add units and fill them.

• Basic bookkeeping
• Customer service
• Local marketing
• Project planning for the site build

• Zoning, site plan and building permit rules for storage on your parcel, which vary by city and county
• General liability and property insurance; check what you need to cover tenants' goods or require them to insure
• Your state's rules on lien sales and unpaid rent, so check them before writing your rental agreement
• Security: lighting, gate access and cameras affect both risk and how much people will pay
• Land purchase or lease costs can be much higher than the unit costs, so run the numbers first

Startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $200,000, depending on the number of units, site preparation, fencing, and security. Land purchase or lease costs can be much higher than unit costs, so run the numbers first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many units you have, local rental rates, and how full the lot stays. Time needed starts at around 5 hours a week once running.

Check zoning, site plan, and building permit rules for storage on your parcel, since they vary by city and county. Also check your state's rules on lien sales and unpaid rent, and what insurance you need.