Storage Wins

Alex Pardo
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Dec 1, 2025 • 32min

EP35: Does Size Matter - While You're Debating Deal Size, Someone Else Just Bought Their Third Facility

Are you stuck over-analyzing your first storage deal? Wondering whether to wait for the big 30,000+ sq ft opportunity or just pull the trigger on something smaller? In this episode, Alex breaks down the real truth behind deal size, what actually matters, what doesn't, and how to figure out which type of facility fits you. Whether you're brand-new or already shopping for your next building, this framework will help you move faster, think clearly, and stop missing opportunities. You'll Learn How To: Know if you should start with a small facility or swing bigger on deal one Underwrite a small deal without getting trapped by tiny margins Spot the hidden upside in mom-and-pop operations most buyers overlook Build confidence, credibility, and deal flow one win at a time Use momentum as fuel to scale instead of waiting for the perfect deal What You'll Hear in This Episode: [00:55] Why most new investors stall out deciding between small vs big deals [02:30] The 3-factor framework to pick your ideal first facility [05:45] Why small deals create confidence, cash flow, and momentum fast [07:15] The upside in mom-and-pop facilities and how to unlock it [10:40] Expense ratios, risk, and the one mistake rookies make most [14:20] The rule of thumb for underwriting small storage facilities [17:50] Real stories: how members used small wins to scale into bigger deals [25:10] When going big actually makes more sense [27:45] The Buy Box Blueprint that removes guesswork and saves months Who This Episode Is For: New investors stuck in research mode and scared to make the wrong move Anyone debating deal size and unsure where to start Operators who want clarity, confidence, and forward motion Investors ready to stop watching others win, and start stacking their own Why You Should Listen: Because the wrong first deal isn't a small one or a big one, it's no deal at all.This episode gives you the clarity and framework to move, decide, and finally step into your first or next storage win. Whether your path starts small or launches big, the key is momentum, and today's episode shows you how to build it. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 27, 2025 • 29min

EP34: The Financing Mistake That's Costing You Storage Deals Right Now

Think you need thousands of dollars in your own pocket to buy a storage facility? Many investors pass on deals because they assume they can't afford them. The truth is, the right financing strategy can make almost any deal possible. In this episode, Alex Pardo breaks down how to fund storage deals without using your own cash. He covers SBA loans, seller financing, private money, equity partners, and local banks. You'll learn the four factors that decide which funding strategy fits your deal, see real examples from Florida and Mississippi, and understand how to structure each deal to close with confidence. You'll Learn How To: Pick the right financing strategy for your storage deals Negotiate seller financing, private money, and SBA options Build trust with lenders, equity partners, and banks Organize and present your lender package professionally What You'll Learn in This Episode: [00:00] How to protect your reputation and impress lenders with trust [00:01] Why Storage Wins is your go-to guide for funding deals [00:04] The secret to matching the right financing to your deal [00:06] How four key factors determine your best funding strategy [00:08] Why SBA financing can work for beginners and value-add deals [00:12] How to negotiate seller financing for flexibility and cash flow [00:16] Using private money for speed, relationships, and gap funding [00:21] How equity partners reduce risk and boost credibility [00:23] The benefits of local and small banks for community deals [00:24] When bridge financing makes sense for urgent or short-term deals [00:25] How to organize your lender package and present professionally [00:27] Why professionalism and communication can beat experience [00:28] How to take action and apply what you learned Who This Episode Is For: First-time storage investors looking to fund their first deal Experienced buyers unsure how to structure financing for value-add deals Anyone wanting to leverage SBA, private money, or seller financing Investors aiming to build credibility and strong lender relationships Why You Should Listen: Success in storage investing isn't about money. Learn how to structure deals creatively, leverage lenders and partners, and use the right strategy to fund and close your first storage facility. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 24, 2025 • 28min

EP33: How I Funded Every Storage Deal Without Using My Own Money

Think you need your own money to buy a storage facility? Think again. In this episode, I'm sharing how I've funded every single one of my storage deals without ever using a dime of my own cash. Whether you're new to the game or ready to scale, this episode gives you the exact financing strategies, mindset shifts, and practical steps to start taking action now—even if your bank account says otherwise. I'm breaking down multiple creative funding methods, from SBA loans and seller financing to private lenders and equity partners. You'll also hear how to position yourself to lenders with confidence (even if you're a beginner), and the common mistakes to avoid when presenting your deal. If money has been your #1 excuse, it's time to delete that thought—because this episode is your playbook for making storage investing possible right now. What You'll Learn in This Episode: [1:47] The mindset shift that helps you attract the money you need [3:02] Why storage is one of the easiest assets to finance [6:26] Key funding metrics explained: NOI, DSCR & more [10:21] Case study: how I raised $350K for my first deal through relationships [12:52] 6 funding strategies to buy storage with none of your own money [19:00] How to build a lender-ready financial package that impresses [23:56] Mistakes to avoid with banks, lenders, and partners You'll Learn How To: Fund storage deals using SBA loans, seller financing, private money, and equity partners Present yourself like a pro to lenders (even as a first-timer) Build relationships and structure win-win deals that sellers and lenders love Get organized and pitch with confidence using a lender-ready package Avoid the top mistakes that can sabotage your funding Who This Episode Is For: New investors who think they need savings to get started Anyone intimidated by talking to banks or lenders Action takers ready to find deals and let the funding follow Storage Wins members looking to apply what they've learned in the real world Why You Should Listen: The #1 reason most people never buy their first storage facility is because they believe they need their own money. I'm here to prove that's simply not true. This episode arms you with the tools, language, and confidence to get funding for your first (or next) deal—even if you're starting from zero. Trust me, the money is out there. You just need to know how to access it. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 20, 2025 • 24min

EP32: You're Spending 95% of Your Time on $hit That Won't Get You a Deal

Are you grinding every day but still not getting any closer to your next storage deal? Most investors don't fail because they're lazy, they fail because they spend their time on the wrong things. In this episode, Alex Pardo breaks down the exact busy work that keeps new and experienced investors stuck, and the surprisingly simple actions that actually get deals done. In this episode, Alex pulls real questions from the Storage Wins private community and shows you how to cut through distractions, focus on revenue-generating activity, and finally start making traction. If you've been hiding behind spreadsheets, systems, and getting ready, this is the wake-up call you need. You'll Learn How To: Focus your time on activities that actually get you deals Use cold calling the right way and why Saturdays are a secret weapon Ask owners the only two numbers you need to underwrite any facility Follow up like a pro, so you never lose a deal that should've been yours Simplify your process so you stop hiding behind CRMs and start taking action What You'll Learn in This Episode: [00:00] The truth about busy wor" and why it kills momentum [01:00] The cold-calling schedule that separates you from your competition [04:00] The two pieces of info you need to underwrite any deal [08:00] Why follow-up is the real reason deals get done [12:00] How to stop hiding behind CRMs and start doing the real work [20:00] The mindset shift that helps you finally buy your first or next facility Who This Episode Is For: New investors trying to get their first facility but feeling stuck Operators who feel busy every day but aren't seeing real progress Anyone overwhelmed with systems and information instead of action Why You Should Listen: If you've been spinning your wheels, this episode will show you exactly where your time is leaking, and how to fix it today. You'll walk away knowing what actually moves the needle in storage, how to simplify your process, and how to create real momentum instead of false productivity. This is the clarity most investors never get, and the reason many never buy a single facility. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 17, 2025 • 24min

EP31: The Hidden Cash Machine Inside Every Storage Deal (That Most Investors Miss)

What if I told you there's a way to make serious money in storage investing before you ever own a facility? In this episode, Alex is pulling back the curtain on what he calls the "hidden cash machine" inside almost every good storage deal—an overlooked opportunity most investors completely miss. Alex will walk you through exactly how he generated six-figure paydays without owning or operating a single storage unit—and how members of Storage Wins community are doing the same. Whether you're looking to fund your first deal, build cash fast, or learn how to wholesale the right way, this episode is packed with real examples, the 5-step process, and tips to avoid common landmines that can kill your credibility. If you're ready to stop leaving money on the table, this one's a must-listen. You'll Learn How To: Unlock cash flow from storage without owning a facility Wholesale ethically and profitably—even on your first deal Use a simple 5-step process to turn opportunities into income Build the right relationships to scale faster Avoid costly mistakes that hurt your reputation What You'll Learn in This Episode: [0:00] Why thinking long-term and relationally is key in storage deals [1:00] How I made $150K on a storage deal without owning a facility [3:00] The "hidden cash machine" strategy explained step-by-step [6:40] 5-step process to wholesale storage deals the right way [10:00] 6 buyer channels to connect with ready-to-buy investors [14:30] Landmines to avoid: hiding your intent, weak buyers, and bad deal packages [20:00] Why progress beats perfection in your first deal [22:00] Real success stories from the Storage Wins community Who This Episode Is For: Aspiring storage investors who want to get started with low risk Action takers looking to build cash reserves or fund their first deal Real estate pros curious about wholesaling storage Community-minded people ready to collaborate, not compete Why You Should Listen: Storage investing isn't just about owning buildings—it's about solving problems and creating value. This episode shows you how to generate fast cash, build your network, and tap into a powerful strategy that can jumpstart your journey. Whether you're wholesaling, buying, or partnering, these are the skills that build long-term wealth. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 13, 2025 • 46min

EP30: The Secret Behind His Success (And How You Can Model It) with Leon Barnes

What if the secret to massive success in self-storage, and in life, has nothing to do with strategy and everything to do with heart? In this episode, Alex sits down with Leon Barnes, one of the most connected and respected leaders in real estate, to unpack the mindset, habits, and heart that fueled his incredible journey, from leaving corporate America to building wealth through real estate. Leon reveals how he balances faith, family, and freedom while leading at the highest level inside Collective Genius. You'll Learn How To: Find clarity in your purpose, and why it's bigger than money Build wealth while working a full-time job or running another business Avoid burnout by aligning your work with what truly matters Surround yourself with a winning community that elevates your results Create long-term success through service, focus, and consistency What You'll Learn in This Episode: • [03:10] The moment Leon left corporate America for real estate freedom • [07:45] How purpose, not time management, drives real success • [10:55] The truth about happiness, faith, and fulfillment in business • [18:10] The three traits every top performer shares • [28:00] The power of community and why takers always lose • [34:45] How one relationship can change everything in your business Who This Episode Is For: Entrepreneurs balancing business, career, and family Investors ready to move from "busy" to focused and fulfilled Anyone craving real conversations about faith, purpose, and success Why You Should Listen: If you've ever wondered how some people build thriving businesses and live with deep purpose, this episode gives you the blueprint. Leon's journey will challenge you to think bigger, give more, and surround yourself with people who call you to a higher level—because success always starts with who you're becoming. Follow Leon Barnes here: The Collective Genius Podcast iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-collective-genius-podcast/id1803873337 The Collective Genius Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3uQDSgFIaXUIwqVRijDnjr Leon Barnes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leongbarnes/ Leons Barnes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lgoner Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link:https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 10, 2025 • 19min

EP29: Stop Saying You're Too Broke or Too Busy to Start Storage Investing

Have you ever told yourself that you cannot start investing in storage because you lack money or time? That belief might be holding you back more than your actual situation. In this episode, Alex Pardo challenges those excuses and shows how you can start building wealth in self storage no matter where you are right now. In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo explains how anyone can buy their first storage facility even with a full time job or limited cash. He shares why mindset and resourcefulness matter more than money and how finding the right people can open doors you never thought possible. Through real stories from students in the Storage Wins community, Alex teaches practical ways to use what you already have, connect with others, and take confident steps toward your first deal. You'll Learn How To: Identify the resources, skills, and connections you already have Shift from focusing on what you lack to what is working for you Find the right people instead of asking how to start Work with others to fill financial or time gaps Build momentum and take action toward your first storage deal What You'll Learn in This Episode: [00:00] How to start in self storage by focusing on what you already have [01:30] Finding your first deal even with no time or money [03:00] Making one plus one equal eleven through the power of collaboration [05:00] Redefining assets and discovering the hidden resources you already possess [07:00] Applying the Gap and the Gain mindset to overcome fear and limitation [08:30] Why finding the right "who" matters more than figuring out "how" [12:00] Turning partnerships into powerful joint ventures for success [17:00] Believing you are one relationship away from your breakthrough Who This Episode Is For: Beginners who believe they cannot start because of limited time or money New investors looking for practical and affordable ways to begin Action takers who want to turn mindset into measurable results People searching for community, accountability, and collaboration in investing Why You Should Listen: Success in storage investing is not about having more, it is about seeing what you already have differently. Alex shows how clarity, connection, and faith in your abilities can replace excuses with action. You are not missing resources, only the right perspective, and this episode helps you find it. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 6, 2025 • 27min

EP28: How to Know If a Storage Deal Actually Makes Sense Before You Commit

Ever found a storage deal that looks perfect on paper but you cannot tell if it truly works? Many deals fail between interest and action. The key is not luck or timing but clarity, confidence, and preparation. So how do you know if a deal is worth it? In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo walks you through the complete Storage Wins Execution Framework, a step-by-step system for analyzing and acting on self-storage deals with confidence. He shares how to evaluate markets, check the numbers, calculate returns, and make offers that stand out. Through real examples and clear breakdowns, Alex helps you move from hesitation to action and understand what truly makes a deal profitable. You'll Learn How To: Analyze a deal quickly with accuracy Evaluate markets and identify warning signs Calculate net operating income, cap rates, and returns Build credibility with brokers and sellers Move from analysis to confident action What You'll Learn in This Episode: [00:00] Why good deals die between interest and action [01:00] The complete Storage Wins execution framework [03:00] Breaking fear and analysis paralysis in decision-making [05:00] How preparation builds confidence and speed [07:00] Quick triage: judging a deal's market and location [10:00] Fast back-of-the-napkin deal analysis [13:00] Spotting red flags before making an offer [17:00] Understanding DSCR and bank financing requirements [20:00] Crafting strong LOIs that sellers say yes to [25:00] Winning through clarity, confidence, and consistent action Who This Episode Is For: New investors who want to verify good deals Action takers ready to stop overanalyzing Storage buyers who want a reliable evaluation system Why You Should Listen Speed creates results, but clarity builds confidence. Alex reveals how preparation turns confusion into certainty so you can evaluate and close deals with assurance. The best investors do not hope a deal works—they know it does. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Nov 3, 2025 • 22min

EP27: Why Fast Investors Win Deals While You're Still Thinking About It

Ever lost a deal because someone else moved faster? In storage investing, speed isn't about luck, it's about readiness. The best investors don't hesitate when opportunity knocks. They act with confidence, clarity, and preparation. So what's slowing you down? In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo reveals how "speed to lead" separates winning investors from those stuck in hesitation. He breaks down the five foundations of offer readiness, systems, tools, and mindset shifts that let you act fast without chaos. Through real-world stories and coaching insights, Alex shows how preparation builds confidence, confidence drives speed, and speed wins deals. If you're tired of missing out while others close, this episode will change how you move forever. You'll Learn How To: Build your offer readiness file so you're prepared to act instantly Create credibility and confidence with brokers, lenders, and sellers Develop your "deal squad" and funding relationships before the deal shows up Use systems, tools, and templates to eliminate hesitation and chaos Understand why preparation wins every time What You'll Learn in This Episode: (00:00) Why some investors act quickly while others hesitate and miss opportunities (01:00) The real reason good deals are lost between interest and action (03:00) How preparation builds confidence and creates offer readiness (04:00) A real story of how Kate went from hesitant to closing her first storage deal (06:00) Why sellers often choose prepared buyers even when they offer less (07:00) The mindset difference between a confident buyer and a hesitant one (08:00) Step 1: Build your personal and business credibility file (11:00) Step 2: Get your financing and private capital ready ahead of time (14:00) Step 3: Define your buy box clearly so you can act with speed (17:00) Step 4: Build your deal team with lenders, brokers, and trusted partners (18:00) Step 5: Prepare your tools and templates before the opportunity comes (19:00) How community and systems remove fear and confusion (20:00) Don't wait for the perfect deal; prepare for the right one (21:00) True speed comes from being ready, not from rushing Who This Episode Is For: Investors who've lost deals because they weren't ready to move Action takers who want to close with speed and confidence Entrepreneurs ready to build momentum through preparation and clarity Why You Should Listen: Speed doesn't come from rushing. It comes from readiness. Every file you organize, every lender you connect with, and every plan you build gets you one step closer to your next deal. If you've been waiting for the perfect time, this episode is your wake-up call: success belongs to the prepared. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/
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Oct 30, 2025 • 38min

EP26: I Thought Wholesaling Was Freedom - Then I Discovered Storage Investing with Kate Porfilio

What if the freedom you've been chasing in real estate is actually just another job in disguise? That's exactly what happened to Kate Porfilio. After years of running a marketing agency and trying wholesaling, she realized she was still stuck on the hamster wheel, trading time for money and missing the life she wanted to build. In this episode, Alex Pardo sits down with Kate to unpack how she went from burnout and self-doubt to closing her first self-storage deal, without using any of her own money. You'll hear her story of courage, community, and consistency, and how believing in herself and showing up changed everything. You'll Learn How To: Find the confidence to take action even when you're scared or uncertain Build powerful relationships that open doors to real estate deals Fund your first storage deal without using your own capital Overcome imposter syndrome and shift from "Can I?" to "I will" Use community and coaching to fast-track your first big win What You'll Learn in This Episode: (00:00) The simple mindset shift that changes everything (01:00) Why wholesaling wasn't the freedom Kate expected (03:00) The moment she discovered storage investing (05:00) How she overcame her fear and skepticism about coaching (08:00) The role of community and accountability in her success (13:00) How Kate closed her first deal without using her own money (20:00) Why building relationships is the secret weapon of storage investors (27:00) The biggest lesson she learned about trusting herself (34:00) Kate's message for anyone afraid to take the leap Who This Episode Is For: New investors tired of spinning their wheels in wholesaling or flipping Entrepreneurs craving a business that actually gives them freedom Anyone on the fence about coaching or scared to take the first step Why You Should Listen: If you've ever felt stuck or doubted whether you have what it takes, this episode will inspire you to move forward anyway. Kate's story proves that courage, community, and imperfect action can create massive results, even if you're starting from scratch. Her journey is proof that your first step can lead to a completely new path to freedom. Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/

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