An established self-storage facility in Whakatāne, trading as ‘Rent A Shed,’ is offered to the market as a freehold going concern, presenting a rare opportunity for investors to acquire a low-risk business with a demonstrated history of strong and consistent returns.

Bayleys Tauranga commercial and industrial sales and leasing broker Brendon Bradley is marketing the freehold land, buildings and business for sale by auction, scheduled at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, 16th April 2025 (unless sold prior), alongside colleague Larissa Reid.

Bradley says the asset is strategically positioned on a busy arterial route within a tightly held industrial hub and has been a trusted provider of self-storage solutions across the Eastern Bay of Plenty for more than three decades.

“The purpose-built complex spans a circa 3,046sqm site, featuring 74 storage units spread across seven buildings, with four different size options ranging from 21 to 68cbm. Improvements are well-equipped with security features, including 24-hour CCTV surveillance monitored by a local security company, which provides tenants with peace of mind.

“The facility’s well-maintained buildings, constructed with concrete foundations, timber framing and Coloursteel cladding, are in good condition, offering endurance and ease of operation for a hands-off investor.”

Bradley says that the business operates with minimal management requirements and can be run part-time by a single person. “It has a strong rental history, consistently achieving high occupancy levels from a mix of residential and commercial tenants,” he says.

“Current rental rates, which have remained unchanged for approximately three years, are considered highly competitive, presenting an immediate opportunity for a new owner to review and adjust pricing in line with market demand.

“Financially, the facility has demonstrated steady performance, with the last three years' average annual net trading profit being circa $141,000. Profit and loss statements are available to prospective purchasers upon signing of a confidentiality agreement.”

Gross annual income has remained stable, and the business benefits from the ability to regularly review rental rates, unlike conventional commercial or industrial investments, which are often subject to longer-term lease agreements.

Bayleys Whakatāne broker Larissa Reid says the site’s location is a key advantage, being just 1.5km from Whakatāne’s town centre with direct access from Valley Road.

“As a main thoroughfare serving the southern sector of Whakatāne and connecting to Tāneatua, Waimana, and surrounding rural areas, it is easily accessible to a broad customer base, including residents from nearby Ōhope.

“The industrial precinct is home to a range of established businesses, reinforcing the strategic nature of the investment.”

The property chattels include security fencing, an alarm system, fire hose reels, and signage, supporting the opportunity for a turnkey investor seeking a hands-off, income-generating addition to their portfolio.

In addition to its physical assets, the sale includes intangible assets essential for seamless business operations, such as the trading name, website and domain, email address, phone number, tenancy agreements, financial records, and goodwill.

Reid says that self-storage facilities of its calibre are increasingly scarce in the current commercial market, particularly those offering secure passive income with proven demand. “Given the strengthening local economic outlook and the ongoing growth in storage needs, this represents an attractive proposition for investors looking to capitalise on a high-performance sector.”