Storage Wins

S2E21: Wholesaling Your First Storage Deal Step-by-Step

In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo works directly with Dan Wentzel to break down the step-by-step process of wholesaling a self-storage facility. After spending months trying to get a small deal under contract, Dan finds himself stuck in the details—overthinking contracts, working with the wrong professionals, and letting fear slow down progress. Alex pulls back the curtain on what should actually happen once you agree on a price with a seller. From choosing the right title company to structuring attorney relationships, handling earnest money, and managing communication between all parties, this episode simplifies what often feels like a complicated and overwhelming process. More importantly, this conversation highlights a key lesson every investor must learn: the deal doesn't fall apart because of complexity—it falls apart because of hesitation, overthinking, and lack of clarity. By the end of the episode, Dan walks away with a clear plan of action and a much simpler framework to move forward. You'll Learn How To: * Navigate the wholesaling process from agreement to closing with clarity * Avoid costly mistakes when working with attorneys and title companies * Structure attorney relationships using flat fees instead of hourly billing * Identify and choose investor-friendly escrow agents or title companies * Handle earnest money deposits and protect yourself in the process * Stay in control of the deal as the "connective tissue" between all parties ⸻ What You'll Learn in This Episode: [1:12] The problem: getting stuck after agreeing on a deal [3:46] Why this deal took 2–3 months to get under contract [5:16] How fear and overthinking slowed down progress [7:04] Why you should never pay attorneys hourly for simple deals [9:23] How to find investor-friendly title companies and escrow agents [10:44] Using your network to source the right professionals [11:17] Building a database of title companies across multiple states [12:21] Why settlement fees are paid at closing—not upfront [14:24] What a typical settlement fee looks like ($500–$1,000 range) [15:57] How to position yourself for long-term relationships with vendors [17:29] Why thinking relationally beats thinking transactionally [18:27] Typical flat fees for contract review and what to expect [20:37] How attorneys can accidentally kill deals with over-lawyering [21:50] Why simple deals should stay simple [23:29] The importance of asking for help earlier in the process [25:09] How to structure earnest money deposits (EMD) properly [26:49] Avoiding wire fraud by verifying instructions [29:18] When (and when not) to pay attorneys upfront [31:27] Disclosure and legality considerations when wholesaling [33:47] What happens after you choose a title company [35:05] How to position yourself honestly as a wholesaler [36:36] Finding photographers or boots-on-the-ground help for marketing [40:25] Why your job isn't done after finding a buyer [41:27] Becoming the transaction coordinator to ensure closing Who This Episode Is For: * Investors trying to wholesale their first self-storage deal * Listeners confused about the process after getting a deal agreed upon * Anyone overwhelmed by contracts, attorneys, and timelines * Entrepreneurs who tend to overthink and delay action * People who want a clear, simple path to closing deals ⸻ Why You Should Listen: Most investors don't get stuck because the process is hard—they get stuck because it's unclear. This episode simplifies the entire wholesaling process and gives you a clear roadmap for what to do, when to do it, and how to avoid the most common mistakes. From working with the right professionals to managing communication and staying in control of the deal, this conversation removes the confusion and replaces it with confidence. If you've ever felt stuck after getting a deal in motion, this episode will help you move forward faster—and with far less friction. Follow Alex Pardo here: * Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ [https://alexpardo.com/] * Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 [https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15] * Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 [https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25] * Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo [https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo] * Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ [https://storagewins.com/] ⸻ Have conversations with at least three storage owners, brokers, private lenders, or equity partners inside the Storage Wins Facebook Group. Join for free here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/]

S2E20: The Problem with This Deal That Cash Flows Day One

In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo and Dan Wentzel break down a live deal opportunity that checks many of the boxes investors are looking for: strong current revenue, below-market rents, and favorable seller financing terms. But as the numbers start to come together, the real conversation shifts from the deal itself to something deeper—confidence. Dan walks through a 32,000 square foot facility in Washington state that's generating roughly $275,000 in annual revenue with clear upside potential. With seller financing on the table at just 5% interest and no money required out of pocket, the opportunity presents a realistic path to immediate cash flow and long-term growth. As Alex breaks down the numbers in real time, the deal begins to take shape: from roughly $2,000 per month in current cash flow to a projected $4,500+ per month after implementing operational improvements and raising rents. But despite the strength of the deal, hesitation still shows up—highlighting a key truth for every investor: the biggest obstacle isn't always the deal, it's the belief that you're ready for it. This episode is a powerful blend of tactical deal analysis and mindset coaching—showing you how to evaluate opportunities through worst-case, likely-case, and best-case scenarios, while also challenging the fear that can hold you back from moving forward. You'll Learn How To: * Evaluate deals using worst-case, likely-case, and best-case scenarios * Break down cash flow, NOI, and debt service in simple terms * Identify strong opportunities based on current performance—not just projections * Leverage seller financing to acquire deals with little to no money down * Decide when to bring in an equity partner versus taking down a deal yourself * Move quickly on opportunities without overanalyzing What You'll Learn in This Episode: [0:00] Recap of the journey and the importance of documenting the process [2:14] Celebrating wins and rebuilding momentum after a reset [5:15] The opportunity: 32,000 sq ft facility in Washington state [6:33] Why seller financing at 5% changes the entire deal [8:59] Understanding occupancy and what it reveals about pricing [11:03] Breaking down revenue and estimating NOI [14:07] How to calculate cash flow after debt service [17:09] Why this deal works with no money out of pocket [21:23] Projecting future upside through rent increases and tenant protection [23:59] Moving from $2K/month to $4.5K/month in cash flow [26:04] The real hesitation: confidence vs capability [30:14] Why fear shows up when the opportunity is real [33:40] Equity partner vs doing the deal yourself [36:10] Negotiating terms: price, duration, and flexibility [40:20] Due diligence, earnest money, and structuring offers [45:26] Why imperfect action beats waiting for certainty [48:00] The next step: take action and control the deal Who This Episode Is For: * Investors evaluating their first real deal opportunity * Listeners who understand the numbers but hesitate to act * Anyone unsure how to structure creative financing deals * Entrepreneurs dealing with fear when the stakes get real * People ready to move from learning into action Why You Should Listen: * The deal doesn't change—but your belief in yourself does. * This episode shows how even a strong opportunity can feel uncertain when you're stepping into something new. By breaking down the numbers and the mindset side by side, you'll see exactly how to evaluate deals objectively—and how to push past the hesitation that comes with growth. * If you've been waiting for the "right" deal or the "right" moment, this conversation will challenge you to trust your preparation, take action, and step into the opportunity in front of you. Follow Alex Pardo here: * Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ [https://alexpardo.com/] * Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 [https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15] * Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 [https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25] * Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo [https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo] * Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ [https://storagewins.com/] Have conversations with at least three storage owners, brokers, private lenders, or equity partners inside the Storage Wins Facebook Group. Join for free here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/]

S2E19: Creating Clarity & Immediate Action to Create Momentum in Your Business Day-to-Day

In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo and Dan Wentzel address a moment every investor eventually faces: losing momentum. After a few weeks of focusing on family following the birth of his daughter, Dan finds himself feeling stuck, behind, and overwhelmed by the growing list of leads and follow-ups he hasn't touched. Instead of trying to fix systems or overanalyze the problem, Alex shifts the focus to something much simpler—and more powerful: hitting the reset button. Through this conversation, they unpack why looking backward creates unnecessary pressure, how guilt and overwhelm slow progress, and why the only thing that matters is your next action. Alex introduces a practical framework for simplifying the business down to its core—list, meaningful conversations, analyze, and offer—and reinforces that progress doesn't come from perfection, but from movement. The key takeaway is clear: stop trying to fix everything and just start playing the game again. This episode is a real-time reset for anyone who feels stuck—and a reminder that momentum is always one action away. You'll Learn How To: * Reset mentally when you feel stuck or overwhelmed * Let go of guilt from missed opportunities or lack of follow-up * Simplify your business into clear, actionable steps * Rebuild momentum by focusing on your next action only * Avoid overcomplicating systems when execution is the real issue * Take immediate action to regain confidence and energy ⸻ What You'll Learn in This Episode: [0:00] Why resistance shows up whenever you pursue something new [2:38] Dan shares feeling stuck and losing momentum [3:04] How life events can disrupt rhythm and consistency [5:15] Why the lead pipeline continued even without Dan's involvement [6:33] The hidden win: building systems that work without you [8:03] Why momentum is hard to regain once it's lost [8:59] Feeling overwhelmed by a growing list of follow-ups [10:05] The realization: you already know what to do next [11:03] Why overthinking creates unnecessary friction [12:36] The analogy of riding 100 miles—one step at a time [14:07] Accepting that the process will be messy [15:03] Why protecting confidence is critical for progress [15:27] The power of hitting the mental reset button [16:13] Viewing your existing database as a gift—not a burden [17:09] Breaking the business into L-M-A-O framework [18:51] Why relationships and conversations drive everything [21:23] Conversations → conversions → contracts → cash flow [23:14] The truth: you already know your next move [23:59] The core takeaway: play the game, don't fix the system [26:04] Releasing guilt, pressure, and overwhelm [29:44] Why immediate action creates momentum [30:14] The shorter the gap, the faster you build momentum Who This Episode Is For: * Investors who feel stuck or have lost momentum * Listeners overwhelmed by follow-ups, leads, or unfinished tasks * Anyone dealing with guilt from falling behind on their goals * Entrepreneurs struggling to restart after life interruptions * People who know what to do—but aren't doing it Why You Should Listen: * Every investor hits a point where they feel behind, stuck, or overwhelmed. * The difference is what happens next. * This episode shows you how to reset instantly, remove unnecessary pressure, and take action without overthinking. It's not about fixing your system or catching up on everything—it's about taking the next step and rebuilding momentum from there. * If you've been stuck in your head or waiting for the right moment to get back on track, this conversation will remind you that the right moment is now. Follow Alex Pardo here: * Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ [https://alexpardo.com/] * Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 [https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15] * Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 [https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25] * Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo [https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo] * Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ [https://storagewins.com/] Have conversations with at least three storage owners, brokers, private lenders, or equity partners inside the Storage Wins Facebook Group. Join for free here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/]

S2E18: He Stopped Overthinking and His Storage Investing Deal Flow Took Off

In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo and Dan Wentzel shift back into action mode as momentum continues to build. With a stronger mindset and clearer priorities in place, the focus becomes simple: consistent execution. Not perfect execution. Not overthinking. Just doing the work that moves deals forward. As Dan continues having conversations, submitting offers, and staying active in the market, the results begin to compound. What once felt uncertain now starts to feel predictable—not because the deals are guaranteed, but because the process is. Alex reinforces the idea that success in this business isn't about one big breakthrough—it's about stacking small, consistent actions that eventually lead to inevitable outcomes. The conversation highlights the difference between those who stay stuck in analysis and those who build momentum through repetition. This episode is a reminder that once you have the strategy, the only thing left to do is execute—and trust that the process will produce results. You'll Learn How To: * Turn clarity into consistent execution without overthinking * Build momentum by focusing on daily, repeatable actions * Avoid analysis paralysis by simplifying your next steps * Increase deal flow through consistent outreach and follow-up * Trust the process even when results aren't immediate * Create predictable outcomes through disciplined repetition ⸻ What You'll Learn in This Episode: [0:00] Why clarity without execution doesn't create results [3:04] Dan's update: increased activity and stronger deal pipeline [5:11] The shift from uncertainty to predictable action [7:28] Why consistency matters more than intensity [9:46] The difference between knowing and doing [11:03] How repetition builds confidence and skill [13:17] The importance of tracking actions—not just outcomes [15:02] Why small actions compound into big results [17:41] Avoiding analysis paralysis by focusing on the next step [19:26] The power of staying active in conversations and offers [21:08] Why momentum creates more opportunities [23:15] The role of discipline in long-term success [25:42] Trusting the process even without immediate wins [27:18] Why execution is the ultimate differentiator Who This Episode Is For: * Investors stuck in overthinking or analysis paralysis * Listeners who have the knowledge but aren't taking consistent action * Anyone struggling to build momentum in their deal flow * Entrepreneurs who need a simpler, execution-focused approach * People ready to turn strategy into real-world results Why You Should Listen: Most people don't fail because they lack knowledge—they fail because they don't execute. This episode shows how consistency, repetition, and simple daily actions can create momentum that leads to real results. It's not about doing everything—it's about doing the right things over and over again. If you've been waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect deal, this conversation will push you to take action—and show you why that's the only thing that truly moves the needle. Follow Alex Pardo here: * Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ [https://alexpardo.com/] * Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 [https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15] * Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 [https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25] * Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo [https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo] * Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ [https://storagewins.com/] ⸻ Have conversations with at least three storage owners, brokers, private lenders, or equity partners inside the Storage Wins Facebook Group. Join for free here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/]

S2E17: Win in Business Without Sacrificing Your Life

In this episode of Storage Wins, Alex Pardo and Dan Wentzel take a step back from tactics and dive into something even more important: how to pursue your first deal without losing sight of what matters most. As Dan gets closer than ever to closing, the pressure begins to build—and with a new baby on the way, the tension between business and life becomes very real. This conversation goes beyond self-storage and into the internal game every entrepreneur faces. The fear of not moving fast enough. The comparison to others. The belief that more time equals more success. And the pressure we place on ourselves that can quietly slow everything down. Alex challenges these assumptions head-on, introducing concepts like thought auditing, Parkinson's Law, and redefining productivity—not by how much time you spend, but by how intentionally you use it. This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn't just about closing deals—it's about building a business that actually supports your life. You'll Learn How To: * Release self-imposed pressure that's slowing your progress * Reframe the belief that more time equals more results * Use Parkinson's Law to become more efficient with less time * Audit your thoughts to identify limiting beliefs and false assumptions * Balance business growth with family, health, and personal priorities * Create a life-first approach that your business supports—not replaces ⸻ What You'll Learn in This Episode: [1:19] Why chasing success can cause you to lose sight of what matters most [3:09] The myth of "balance" and why it's really about focused presence [5:00] Dan's update on deal progress and building momentum [7:08] Moving toward a deal under contract and setting up the LLC [9:54] The internal pressure of not moving fast enough [11:03] How family responsibilities shift priorities and perspective [13:16] Why wanting more time is the wrong question to ask [14:06] Identifying inefficiencies and reallocating your time intentionally [15:37] The danger of comparison and how it creates unnecessary pressure [16:21] Recognizing how much progress has actually been made [17:09] Why most pressure is self-inflicted—and how to release it [18:42] The impact of mindset on performance and decision-making [21:05] Why chasing timelines can work against you [23:22] The power of constraints and working with less time [26:36] How Parkinson's Law applies to your productivity [29:26] Why less time can actually make you more effective [33:28] The importance of being intentional with your time and priorities [37:14] Designing your life first, then building your business around it Who This Episode Is For: * Entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed or behind in their journey * Investors struggling with pressure, comparison, or time constraints * Anyone trying to balance business growth with family life * People chasing success but feeling like something is off * Listeners who want to build wealth without sacrificing what matters most ⸻ Why You Should Listen: Most people think they need more time, more deals, or more resources. In reality, what they need is a better way of thinking. This episode will challenge how you view productivity, pressure, and progress—and help you realize that the biggest breakthroughs don't always come from doing more, but from thinking differently. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, behind, or stretched too thin, this conversation will help you reset, refocus, and move forward with clarity. Follow Alex Pardo here: * Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ [https://alexpardo.com/] * Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 [https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15] * Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 [https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25] * Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo [https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo] * Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/ [https://storagewins.com/] ⸻ Have conversations with at least three storage owners, brokers, private lenders, or equity partners inside the Storage Wins Facebook Group. Join for free here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/]