How to Build a High-Yield Storage Portfolio Using SBA Loans

In this episode of the Invest In You podcast, Fredrik is joined by Chris Long, a real estate investor and entrepreneur specialising in highly profitable self-storage yards. Chris details his transition from the demanding world of carpentry and construction to the cash-flowing, low-overhead model of "dirt, fences, and gates". Drawing on his experience scaling his portfolio, Chris breaks down creative financing strategies, the power of SBA loans, and how to leverage AI to run a lean, highly productive real estate business. KEY TAKEAWAYS High-Yield Storage Yards: Converting simple dirt lots into fenced self-storage yards offers a highly predictable, low-maintenance cash flow model with minimal operational overhead. Creative Financing and SBA Loans: US-based investors can leverage Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to acquire existing businesses with only 10% down, lowering the barrier to entry. Repurposing Unused Space: Investors can generate instant equity and cash flow by identifying neglected land, such as unused gardens, and converting them into paid parking or storage spaces. AI-Powered Lean Teams: Real estate operators can replace large traditional teams by utilizing AI tools for deal sourcing, underwriting, and outreach, maximizing productivity. The Power of Persistence: A "no" is often just a stepping stone to a "yes," and maintaining relentless persistence is the ultimate formula for closing difficult off-market deals. BEST MOMENTS "You take dirt, you put up fencing, put up a gate, you rent it out and you make cash." "There's more money looking for people with deals than there's deals... eventually as an operator, we grow and then we have money we want to deploy." "You could do more with an Excel spreadsheet using AI than a high-rise building of people." "No, no, no means yes... that's the formula to success." HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR GUEST Guest: Chris Long Instagram: @chrislongyards LongYards Storage Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-long-152b3988/ ABOUT THE PODCAST Invest in You is a global podcast where entrepreneur and investor Fredrik Sandvall shares practical ideas and conversations with founders, investors, and operators. Episodes focus on investing, entrepreneurship, and building long-term control and freedom. Occasionally joined by his sons Ivan and Charlie, the show offers both experience-based insight and a next-generation perspective. Listeners in 155+ countries tune in to think clearer, act smarter, and build with intent. COMMUNITY & CONTACT Podcast community: https://bit.ly/4jxF94k LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandvall/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FredrikinLondon/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FredrikSandvall