RV/Boat Storage

09 / 08 / 22

2 min read

Consumer purchases of recreational vehicles and boats are spurring strong demand for storage facilities, creating investment opportunities within this niche asset class, according to a new research bulletin from Yardi Matrix.

The bulletin outlines factors driving demand for RV and boat storage. Most notable among them are a record number of acquisitions. In 2021, 571,000 RV registrations and 313,000 boat sales were recorded, driven largely by consumers’ desire for outdoor vacation activities during the pandemic and a shortage of space in residential areas to store the vehicles.

RV/boat storage facility deliveries are expected to rise to the highest levels in nearly two decades in 2022, the bulletin reports. However, this growth, constrained by the limited number of developers and suitable facilities, zoning issues and other factors, is not fully meeting demand.

Sixty-six property sales valued at $284.5 million took place in 2021. With the average price per acre already 40% higher in 2022 over last year, this year “will likely be another record year for RV/boat storage transaction volume,” the bulletin says.

Although vehicle sales could be slowed by rising interest rates, supply chain snags and a slowing economy, “growth in the total number of RVs and boats to be delivered over the next five to 10 years is likely to be solid and increase demand for storage,” the bulletin says.

Read the research bulletin to learn more about the RV/boat market’s current state and prospects and why this subsector of the self storage vertical presents an opportunity for investors.

Yardi Matrix offers the industry’s most comprehensive market intelligence tool for investment professionals, equity investors, lenders and property managers who underwrite and manage investments in commercial real estate. Yardi Matrix covers multifamily, student housing, industrial, office and self storage property types. Email [email protected], call 480-663-1149 or visit yardimatrix.com to learn more.

AUTHOR

Joel Nelson, senior marketing writer, joined Yardi in 2007. His byline has appeared in New York Real Estate Journal, Canadian Property Management and Los Angeles Lawyer, among others. He has won multiple awards from major professional organizations including the International Association of Business Communicators and Public Communicators of Los Angeles. Joel earned a bachelor’s degree from Pomona College.