Anca Lenta
Anca is a real estate researcher and writer at StorageCafe, focusing on housing and self-storage trends across the U.S. She specializes in data-driven analysis that sheds light on how development, migration, and market shifts shape cities and communities across the U.S. When she’s not analyzing numbers, she’s leveling up in the latest game or getting lost in a good novel. You can contact Anca via email.
Movers delivering package to couple.

How Much To Tip Your Movers: A Friendly Guide To Moving-Day Etiquette

Tipping etiquette can be confusing in almost any industry, but figuring out how much to tip your movers can somehow leave you feeling even more stumped. Unlike a quick restaurant meal or salon visit, moving involves hours of heavy lifting and, most important of all, trust. After all, these professionals are handling your most valued belongings — moving not just furniture and boxes, but the familiar pieces of your life that make a house feel like home again. And while people often say you can’t put a price on that kind of care, when it comes to tipping, it turns out you actually can.

Military spouse and husband hugging with child behind them.

How Self Storage Helps Military Families Stay Grounded

The challenge of keeping and moving every memory, moment, and belonging — all depending on where duty calls — is a daily reality for military personnel, their spouses, and their families. Moving is already tough on its own, but when you add the weight of finding space for everything you own, it can feel like one more burden on already busy shoulders.

Wedding dress, shoes and bouquet on the bed.

Something Old, Something New, Wedding Dress Storage Too

The honeymoon has ended, the guests have long departed, and what remains are the echoes of your special day. Beyond the photographs and keepsakes, there’s the centerpiece itself – the wedding dress.

Real estate agent handing over keys of new home to couple.

The Cheapest States To Buy A House: The South Hits Home With Prices Under $250K

With U.S. home prices hitting record highs, many Americans feel the dream of owning a home slipping further out of reach. But look beyond the priciest coastal markets, and there’s good news: it’s still possible to find a home for under $250,000 – and keep mortgage payments manageable.

Business meeting and papers on table.

Self Storage Feasibility Study: What, Why, When, And How It Works

One in three Americans is reclaiming their space at home through self storage, and the market is projected to reach $105 billion by 2034. The sector’s steady upward trajectory has definitely captured the attention of investors. Beyond consistently high occupancy rates month after month, year after year, self storage’s biggest draw is its resilience. Often described as recession-resistant, the sector has shown its ability to perform during economic hardship, still allowing profits to emerge even in challenging times.

Hallway with storage units.

Storage Maintenance Done Right: Practical Tips For Long-Term Success

You’ve heard the saying, “Never judge a book by its cover.” But in self storage, appearances matter. Facilities are often judged at first glance. And, oftentimes, a property’s appeal and functionality hinge on a consistent, well-structured maintenance plan.

RV vehicle riding down the street in mountain area.

2025’s Top RV Destinations: Branson, Rockport & Naples Lead The Nation In Best RVing Experiences

From the horse-drawn wagons of the 1800s to the first motorized RVs around 1910, the spirit of American adventure has always been tied to life on the road. Just ask Bob Dylan.

Basement living room.

Basement Storage Ideas to Maximize Your Home’s Living Space

When your home just doesn’t feel big enough to hold all the pieces of your busy life, the basement can become your secret weapon, a go-to spot that solves a lot of problems at once.

Self storage units.

Q1 2025 Self Storage Sales Hit $855 Million Amid Positive Investor Sentiment

Key Highlights:

Cleveland, Ohio, USA downtown city skyline at dusk.

How Storage Solutions Can Support Cleveland’s Micro-Housing Movement

Cleveland is riding the wave of the micro-housing movement sweeping across the country, mainly fueled by its recent downtown revitalization that has attracted a growing number of residents. This influx has sparked a rising demand for smaller, conveniently located rental units. Caught in a tug-of-war between affordability and urban density, residents find themselves squeezed from both sides, while micro-housing emerges as a crucial advantage to gain the upper hand.

San Diego skyline

Living Large In Small San Diego Homes: Here’s How To Make Every Inch Count

As more people flock to San Diego, the city has been building smaller to make room. In fact, the average single family home has shrunk by 259 square feet since 2010 — one of the steepest drops among the nation’s 20 largest metro areas. And with the average home now priced around $1M, getting ample space without breaking the bank is a tall order.

Mother with children cleaning the house.

Spring Cleaning With Kids? Here’s How Self Storage Can Save The Day

Spring cleaning season is in full swing — and while the fresh start feels great, let’s be honest: tackling clutter is no small task. Add kids into the mix, and things can go from chaotic to complete meltdown in minutes.