Maria Gatea
Maria Gatea is a Senior Editor & Research Writer for Yardi with a background in Journalism and Communication. After covering business and finance-related topics as a freelance writer for 15 years, she is now focusing on researching and writing about the real estate industry. You may contact Maria via email.

Where Love Lasts Most In The U.S.: Happily Ever After Thrives In New England And The Midwest

Valentine’s Day comes and goes in a flurry of roses, heart-shaped chocolates, and candlelit dinners – all of which we indulge in wholeheartedly (pun intended). And we’re not just giving love, we’re spending it too – a record-breaking $27.5 billion is expected to be joyfully poured into Valentine’s Day celebrations this year, according to the National Retail Federation, all in honor of the people we hold dear.

Young person surrounded by moving boxes in new home

Where Gen Z Is Buying Homes: The Top 10 States for Young Homebuyers in 2025

For the first time ever, Gen Zers are matching Millennials in state-to-state migration numbers, with nearly 2.2 million Gen Zers relocating long-distance in 2023. This generational shift marks a major turning point as young professionals and early-career workers move in search of affordable housing, better job opportunities and a lifestyle that aligns with their values.

What Size Storage Unit Do You Need for a 3-Bedroom House?

Storing the contents of a 3-bedroom house or apartment typically requires a 10’x15′ or 10’x20′ storage unit, depending on how much furniture and how many appliances you’re moving. If you’re also storing a vehicle, you’ll need to step up to a 10’x30′. Here’s how to figure out exactly which size fits your situation.

Phoenix Arizona Skyline

What Makes Phoenix A Great Place To Live: From Its Thriving Economy To Its Attractive Lifestyle And Family-Friendly Ways

There’s a reason why more and more people every year are choosing Phoenix, Arizona, as their home. The city, long known for its stunning desert landscapes and warm climate, has transformed over the past few decades into an economic powerhouse, a hub for innovation, and a place where quality of life takes center stage.

Two men on construction site

2024 In Review: Key Real Estate Trends From StorageCafe’s Research

Real estate in 2024 was nothing short of transformative. Development surged across the board, reshaping skylines and unveiling opportunities in every corner of the country. Yet, even as new projects broke ground and communities expanded, affordability remained a defining challenge. With rising costs, Americans turned to creative strategies — from downsizing to relocating to more affordable regions — reshaping housing trends nationwide.

converted self storage facility

Out With The Old, In With Self Storage: U.S. Cities Convert Industrial, Retail Spaces Into Storage Facilities

Self storage construction has surged in recent decades, driven by the industry’s ability to provide flexible solutions to life’s challenges — whether it’s dislocation, divorce, death or the need to downsize. With living space increasingly at a premium in urban centers, it’s no surprise that self storage has become an essential resource. The sector has risen to meet this demand, building an impressive inventory of nearly 2 billion square feet nationwide, with over 90% of that space delivered in the last four decades.

USPS address chabge

How The USPS Change Of Address Works

You’re moving, so you already packed everything, rented a storage unit, and hired a truck. However, there’s still one important thing you must do – the USPS change of address– and that task should be completed by the time you actually start living in your new house.

Split image showing Los Angeles and Phoenix

California Exodus Spills Into Phoenix Metro And Arizona’s Western Counties

California’s year-round mild weather and booming economy have paradoxically made it one of the least affordable housing markets in the United States. Sky-high real estate prices and an escalating cost of living are pushing residents to leave at a striking pace.

Aerial view Baton Rouge

Self Storage Can Help Locals In Baton Rouge To Streamline Their Homes And Businesses

One of the country’s fastest growing economies and a city steeped in rich culture and the trademark Southern sense of community, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is definitely a desirable place to live. But, as the city continues to evolve and expand, residents are often faced with challenges related to storage space, whether it’s temporary storage while moving or remodeling, or long-term storage of seasonal and occasionally used items.

Aerial view of Brooklyn

10 Of The Best Neighborhoods In Brooklyn Where You Can Still Afford A Home

Brooklyn has long been known for its vibrant culture, artistic communities and diverse neighborhoods. While some parts of Brooklyn have become synonymous with skyrocketing real estate prices, there are still several pockets where purchasing a single family home is attainable for those looking to mix the city life with a bit more space for them and their families.

Man with boxes in front of storage unit

Easily Find the Perfect Space For Your Belongings With Our Storage Unit Size Calculator

Self-storage is handy for everything from short-term needs when you’re between moves to long-term storage for seasonal items or hobby gear. But how do you know which unit size is the best fit?

Home decorated for Halloween

A Spooktacular Roundup: The Top 10 U.S. Metros For Halloween Fun And Thrills

When it comes to celebrating Halloween, Americans go all in. This year alone, Halloween spending is projected to reach a staggering $11.6 billion on candy, costumes, and decorations, as reported by the National Retail Federation. But Halloween isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about creating the right atmosphere. From extravagant haunted houses and festive parades to an abundance of candy and eerie decorations, certain U.S. cities truly embody the Halloween spirit.