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SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc.

For the period ended Mar 31, 2025. Filed May 9, 2025.

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About this filing

A company's report for each of its first three quarters. The financial statements are not audited. It shows how the business has moved since the last annual report, and what management says changed.

Mar 31, 2025 · Filed May 9, 2025

SMA$38.92+0.6%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

Note 1. Organization

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), is a self-managed and fully-integrated self storage real estate investment trust (“REIT”), formed on January 8, 2013 under the Maryland General Corporation Law. Our year-end is December 31. As used in this report, “we,” “us,” “our,” and “Company” refer to SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. and each of our subsidiaries.

We acquire and own self storage facilities; we also operate self storage facilities owned by us as well as those owned by the entities sponsored by us. As of March 31, 2025, we wholly-owned 164 self storage facilities located in 20 states (Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin), the District of Columbia, and Canada.

As discussed herein, we, through our subsidiaries, currently serve as the sponsor of Strategic Storage Trust VI, Inc., a publicly-registered non-traded REIT (“SST VI”), Strategic Storage Growth Trust III, Inc., a private REIT (“SSGT III”) and Strategic Storage Trust X, a private net asset value REIT launched in January 2025, ("SST X" and together with SST VI and SSGT III, the “Managed REITs” or, the "Managed REIT Platform").

We operate the properties owned by the Managed REITs, which together with one other self storage property we manage, as of March 31, 2025, represented 44 operating properties and approximately 34,000 units and 3.9 million rentable square feet. Through our Managed REIT Platform, we originate, structure, and manage additional self storage investment products.

SmartStop OP, L.P. (the “Operating Partnership”) owns, directly or indirectly through one or more subsidiaries, all of the self storage properties that we own. As of March 31, 2025, we owned approximately 88% of the common units of limited partnership interests of our Operating Partnership. The remaining approximately 12% of the common units are owned by current and former employees, members of our executive management team, board members, or indirectly by Strategic Asset Management I, LLC (f/k/a SmartStop Asset Management, LLC), our former sponsor (“SAM”), its affiliates, and affiliates of Select Capital Corporation, the former dealer manager of our offering (the “Former Dealer Manager”). As the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership, we have the exclusive power to manage and conduct the business of our Operating Partnership.

On March 12, 2025, our board of directors (the “Board”), upon recommendation of our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, approved an Estimated Per Share Net Asset Value (“NAV”) of our common stock of $58.00 for our Class A Common Stock and Class T Common Stock (defined below) based on the estimated value of our assets less the estimated value of our liabilities, or net asset value, divided by the number of shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis, calculated as of June 30, 2024.

On March 20, 2025, we effected a one-for-four reverse stock split (the “Reverse Stock Split”) of each issued and outstanding share of Class A common stock (“Class A Common Stock”), $0.001 par value per share, and Class T Common Stock (“Class T Common Stock”), $0.001 par value per share. Concurrently with the Reverse Stock Split, we also effected a corresponding one-for-four reverse unit split (together with the Reverse Stock Split, the “Reverse Equity Splits”) of units of SmartStop OP, L.P., our operating partnership (the “Operating Partnership”). As a result of the Reverse Equity Splits, every four shares of our common stock and every four Operating Partnership units that were issued and outstanding as of the date of the Reverse Equity Splits were automatically changed into one issued and outstanding share of common stock or one issued and outstanding Operating Partnership unit, as applicable, rounded to the nearest 1/1000th share or Operating Partnership unit. The reverse stock and unit splits impacted all classes of common stock and operating partnership units proportionately and resulted in no impact on any stockholder's or limited partner's percentage ownership of all issued and outstanding common stock or operating partnership units. In connection with the reverse equity splits, the number of shares of common stock and operating partnership units underlying the outstanding share-based awards were also proportionally reduced.

Immediately after the reverse stock split described above, we reclassified and designated 225,000,000 authorized but unissued shares of Class A Common Stock and 340,000,000 authorized but unissued shares of Class T Common Stock as authorized but unissued shares of common stock, $0.001 parvalue per share (the “Reclassification”), without any designation asto class or series. As a result, the Company had 565,000,000 shares of unclassified common stock, $0.001 par value per share, authorized but unissued.

On April 1, 2025 we executed our underwriting agreement, and on April 3, 2025, we closed our registered underwritten public offering (the “Underwritten Public Offering”) of 27,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.001 par value per share (the “Common Stock”), at an initial price of $30.00 per share, pursuant to a registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form S-11 (File No. 333-264449) (the “Registration Statement”) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). These shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the ticker symbol "SMA". The underwriters also exercised an overallotment option to purchase 4,050,000 additional shares of Common Stock on April 3, 2025. Certain of our directors, officers, and employees, and friends and family members of certain of our directors, officers, and employees were able to and did purchase shares through us or our underwriters at the public offering price of $30.00 per share. Under this program, officers and directors purchased 31,500 shares. The gross and net proceeds of our Underwritten Public Offering were approximately $931.5 million and $875.6 million, respectively.

On October 1, 2025, which is the six-month anniversary of the listing of our common stock for trading on the New York Stock Exchange, each share of Class A Common Stock and share of Class T Common Stock will automatically, and without any stockholder action, convert into one share of listed Common Stock.

From January 2014 through January 2017, we conducted multiple offerings for sales of shares to the public through multiple registration statements and sold approximately $493 million in Class A Common Stock and $73 million of Class T Common Stock, excluding shares sold pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan, as described below.

In November 2016, we filed with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-3, which registered up to an additional $100.9 million in shares under our distribution reinvestment plan. On May 14, 2024, we filed a new Registration Statement on Form S-3 with the SEC which registered up to an additional 1,125,000 Class A Shares and 125,000 Class T Shares under our distribution reinvestment plan (our “DRP Offering”).

As of March 31, 2025, we had sold approximately 2.7 million of Class A Common Stock and approximately 0.3 million of Class T Common Stock through our distribution reinvestment plan, of which, approximately 188,000 Class A Shares and approximately 21,000 Class T Shares were sold under our current DRP Offering. The DRP Offering was terminated on May 1, 2025. See Note 12 – Commitments and Contingencies for additional information on our DRP.

Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) as contained within the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) and the rules and regulations of the SEC.

The square footage, unit count, and occupancy percentage data and related disclosures included in these notes to the consolidated financial statements are outside the scope of our independent registered accounting firm's review.

Reverse Equity Splits

As applicable and unless otherwise indicated, the consolidated financial statements and accompanying footnotes give effect to the retrospective effect to the Reverse Equity Splits as described above in Note 1 to the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Underwritten Public Offering Costs

Deferred costs pertaining to the Underwritten Public Offering as of March 31, 2025 were recorded in Other assets, net in our consolidated balance sheets, and will be offset against the Underwritten Public Offering proceeds and reclassified as a component of additional paid-in capital in our consolidated balance sheets upon the consummation of the Underwritten Public Offering in April 2025. We incurred other transaction costs related to our Underwritten Public Offering activities but werenot directly attributable to our equity raise, and therefore were not capitalized, such costs were included within the General and administrative expenses line item in our consolidated statements of operations.

Principles of Consolidation

Our financial statements, and the financial statements of our Operating Partnership, including its wholly-owned subsidiaries, are consolidated in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The portion of these entities not wholly-owned by us is presented as noncontrolling interests. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Consolidation Considerations

Current accounting guidance provides a framework for identifying a variable interest entity (“VIE”) and determining when a company should include the assets, liabilities, noncontrolling interests, and results of activities of a VIE in its consolidated financial statements. In general, a VIE is an entity or other legal structure used to conduct activities or hold assets that either (1) has an insufficient amount of equity to carry out its principal activities without additional subordinated financial support, (2) has a group of equity owners that are unable to make significant decisions about its activities, or (3) has a group of equity owners that do not have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns generated by its operations. Generally, a VIE should be consolidated if a party with an ownership, contractual, or other financial interest in the VIE (a variable interest holder) has the power to direct the VIE’s most significant activities and the obligation to absorb losses or right to receive benefits of the VIE that could be significant to the VIE. A variable interest holder that consolidates the VIE is called the primary beneficiary. Upon consolidation, the primary beneficiary generally must initially record all of the VIE’s assets, liabilities, and noncontrolling interest at fair value and subsequently account for the VIE as if it were consolidated based on majority voting interest.

Our Operating Partnership is deemed to be a VIE and is consolidated by us as we are currently the primary beneficiary. Our sole significant asset is our investment in our Operating Partnership; as a result, substantially all of our assets and liabilities represent those assets and liabilities of our Operating Partnership and its wholly-owned subsidiaries.

Pacific Oak Holding Group, LLC, the parent company of Pacific Oak Capital Markets, LLC, the dealer manager for the public offering of SST VI, is a 17.5% non-voting member of Strategic Storage Advisor VI, LLC, our advisor to SST VI (the “SST VI Advisor”). We are the primary beneficiary of SST VI Advisor, and its operations therefore are consolidated by us.

As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, we were not a party to any other material contracts or interests that would be deemed variable interests in VIEs other than our joint ventures with SmartCentres, our Nantucket Joint Venture (as defined below), and our equity investments in the Managed REIT's, which are all accounted for under the equity method of accounting (see Note 4 – Investments in Unconsolidated Real Estate Ventures and Note 10 – Related Party Transactions for additional information). Our joint venture programs through which we offer our tenant insurance, tenant protection plans or similar programs (the “Tenant Protection Programs”) with SST VI and SSGT III are consolidated.

Under the equity method, our investments are stated at cost and adjusted for our share of net earnings or losses and reduced by distributions and impairments, as applicable. Equity in earnings will generally be recognized based on our ownership interest in the earnings of each of the unconsolidated investments and recorded within our consolidated statements of operations.

Investments in and Advances to Managed REITs

As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, we owned equity and debt investments in the Managed REITs; such amounts are included in Investments in and advances to Managed REITs within our consolidated balance sheets. We account for the equity investments using the equity method of accounting as we have the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over the Managed REITs’ operating and financial policies through our advisory and property management agreements with the respective Managed REITs.

We record the interest and related financing fees on our debt investments on the accrual basis and such income is included in Interest income within the consolidated statements of operations included herein. While we do make loans periodically, we do not consider that to be part of our primary operating activity, and therefore do not report income from loans as operating income.

See Note 10 – Related Party Transactions for additional information.

Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Entities

We account for the noncontrolling interests in our Operating Partnership and the noncontrolling interests in SST VI Advisor and our Tenant Protection Programs joint ventures with SST VI and SSGT III in accordance with the related accounting guidance.

Due to our control through our general partnership interest in our Operating Partnership and the limited rights of the limited partners, our Operating Partnership, including its wholly-owned subsidiaries, are consolidated with the Company and the limited partner interests are reflected as noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We also consolidate our interests in the SSGT III and SST VI Tenant Protection Programs and present the minority interests as noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The noncontrolling interests shall be attributed their share of income and losses, even if that attribution results in a deficit noncontrolling interests balance.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. The current economic environment has increased the degree of uncertainty inherent in these estimates and assumptions. Management will adjust such estimates when facts and circumstances dictate. Actual results could materially differ from those estimates. The most significant estimates made include that of real estate acquisition valuation and the allocation of property purchase price to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed at relative fair value, the evaluation of potential impairment of indefinite and long-lived assets and goodwill, and the estimated useful lives of real estate assets and intangibles.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to cash with a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents.

We may maintain cash and cash equivalents in financial institutions in excess of insured limits. In an effort to mitigate this risk, we only invest in or through major financial institutions.

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash consists primarily of impound reserve accounts for property taxes, insurance and capital improvements in connection with the requirements of certain of our loan agreements.

Real Estate Purchase Price Allocation and Treatment of Acquisition Costs

We account for asset acquisitions in accordance with GAAP which requires that we allocate the purchase price of a property to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and the liabilities assumed based on their relative fair values as of the date of acquisition. This guidance requires us to make significant estimates and assumptions, including fair value estimates, which requires the use of significant unobservable inputs as of the acquisition date. We engage independent third-party valuation specialists to assist in the determination of significant estimates and market-based assumptions used in the valuation models.

The value of the tangible assets, consisting of land and buildings, is determined as if vacant. Substantially all of the leases in place at acquired properties are at market rates, as the majority of the leases are month-to-month contracts. We also consider whether in-place, market leases represent an intangible asset. We recorded approximately $3.3 million andnone in intangible assets to recognize the value of in-place leases related to our acquisitions during the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. We do not expect, nor to date have we recorded, intangible assets for the value of customer relationships because we expect we will not have concentrations of significant customers and the average customer turnover will be fairly frequent.

Allocation of purchase price to acquisitions of portfolios of facilities are allocated to the individual facilities based upon an income approach or a cash flow analysis using appropriate risk adjusted capitalization rates which take into account the relative size, age, and location of the individual facility along with current and projected occupancy and rental rate levels or appraised values, if available.

Acquisitions that do not meet the definition of a business, as defined under current GAAP, are accounted for as asset acquisitions. During the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, our property acquisitions did not meet the definition of a business. To date, our acquisitions have generally not met the definition of a business because substantially all of the fair value was concentrated in a single identifiable asset or group of similar identifiable assets (i.e. land, buildings, and related intangible assets) and because the acquisitions did not include a substantive process in the form of an acquired workforce or an acquired contract that cannot be replaced without significant cost, effort or delay. As a result, once an acquisition is deemed probable, acquisition related transaction costs are capitalized rather than expensed.

During the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, we expensed approximately $203,000 and $71,000, respectively, of acquisition-related transaction costs that did not meet our capitalization policy during the respective periods.

Evaluation of Possible Impairment of Real Property Assets

Management monitors events and changes in circumstances that could indicate that the carrying amounts of our real property assets may not be recoverable. When indicators of potential impairment are present that indicate that the carrying amounts of the assets may not be recoverable, we will assess the recoverability of the assets by determining whether the carrying value of the real property assets will be recovered through the undiscounted future operating cash flows expected from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. In the event that such expected undiscounted future cash flows do not exceed the carrying value, we will adjust the value of the real property assets to the fair value and recognize an impairment loss. For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, no real property asset impairment losses were recognized.

Casualty Insurance Recoveries

In the event of a wind storm, flood, fire or other such event causing property damage, we estimate the carrying value of the damaged property and record a corresponding casualty loss. If we determine that an insurance recovery is probable, we record such estimated recovery as a receivable up to the amount of the casualty loss. Any amount of insurance recovery for such loss in excess of the amount of the casualty loss recorded is considered a gain contingency and is recognized when the claim is fully settled.

Goodwill Valuation

We initially recorded goodwill as a result of the Self Administration Transaction (as defined in Note 10 – Related Party Transactions), which occurred in 2019. Goodwill is recorded as the difference, if any, between the aggregate consideration paid for an acquisition and the fair value of the net tangible assets and other intangible assets acquired. Goodwill is allocated to various reporting units, as applicable, and is not amortized. We perform an annual qualitative impairment assessment as of December 31 for goodwill; between annual tests we evaluate the recoverability of goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of goodwill may not be fully recoverable. If circumstances indicate the carrying amount may not be fully recoverable, we perform a quantitative analysis to compare the fair value of each reporting unit to its respective carrying amount. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge will be recognized.

Trademarks

In connection with the Self Administration Transaction, we recorded the fair value associated with thetwo primary trademarks acquired therein.

Trademarks are based on the value of our brands. Trademarks are valued using the relief from royalty method, which presumes that without ownership of such trademarks, we would have to make a stream of payments to a brand or franchise owner in return for the right to use their name. By virtue of this asset, we avoid any such payments and record the related intangible fair value of our ownership of the brand name.

As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, $15.7 million was recorded related to the SmartStop® Self Storage trademark, which is an indefinite lived trademark. During the year ended December 31, 2024, the “Strategic Storage®” trademark, a definite lived trademark, became fully amortized.

We qualitatively evaluate whether any triggering events or changes in circumstances have occurred in addition to our annual impairment test that would indicate an impairment condition may exist. If any change in circumstance or triggering event occurs, and results in a significant impact to our revenue and profitability projections, or any significant assumption in our valuation methods is adversely impacted, the impact could result in a material impairment charge in the future.

Revenue Recognition

Self Storage Operations

Management believes that all of our leases are operating leases. Rental income is recognized in accordance with the terms of the leases, which generally are month-to-month. Revenues from any long-term operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. The excess of rents received over amounts contractually due pursuant to the underlying leases is included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets, and contractually due but unpaid rent is included in other assets.

In accordance with ASC 842, we review the collectability of lease payments on an ongoing basis. We consider collectability indicators when analyzing accounts receivable and historical bad debt levels, including current economic trends, all of which assist in evaluating the probability of outstanding and future rental income collections.

Additionally, we earn ancillary revenue from fees we receive related to providing tenant insurance or tenant protection plans to customers at our properties through our Tenant Protection Programs, and to a lesser extent, through the sale of various moving and packing supplies such as locks and boxes. We recognize such revenue in the Ancillary operating revenue line within our consolidated statements of operations as the services are performed and as the goods or services are delivered.

Managed REIT Platform

We earn property management and asset management revenue, pursuant to the respective property management and advisory agreement contracts, in connection with providing services to the Managed REITs. We have determined under ASC 606 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”), that the performance obligation for the property management services and asset management services are satisfied as the services are rendered. While we are compensated for our services on a monthly basis, these services represent a series of distinct daily services in accordance with ASC 606. Such revenue is recorded in the Managed REIT Platform revenue line within our consolidated statements of operations.

The Managed REITs’ advisory agreements also provide for reimbursement to us of our direct and indirect costs of providing administrative and management services to the Managed REITs. These reimbursements include costs incurred in relation to organization and offering services provided to the Managed REITs and the reimbursement of salaries, bonuses, and other expenses related to benefits paid to our employees while performing services for the Managed REITs. The Managed REITs’ property management agreements also provide reimbursement to us for the property manager’s costs of managing the properties. Reimbursable costs include wages and salaries and other expenses that arise in operating, managing and maintaining the Managed REITs’ properties.

Under ASC 606, direct reimbursement of such costs does not represent a separate performance obligation from our obligation to perform property management and asset management services. The reimbursement income is considered variable consideration, and is recognized as the costs are incurred, subject to limitations on the Managed REIT Platform’s ability to incur offering costs or limitations imposed by the advisory agreements. We have elected to separately record such revenue in the Reimbursable costs from Managed REITs line within our consolidated statements of operations.

Additionally, we earn revenue in connection with our Tenant Protection Programs joint ventures with our Managed REITs. We also earn development and construction management revenue from services we provide in connection with the project design, coordination and oversight of development and certain capital improvement projects undertaken by the Managed REITs. We recognize such revenue in the Managed REIT Platform revenue line within our consolidated statements of operations as the services are performed or delivered. See Note 10 – Related Party Transactions, for additional information regarding revenue generated from our Managed REIT Platform.

Sponsor Funding Agreement

On November 1, 2023, SmartStop REIT Advisors, LLC, a subsidiary of our Operating Partnership, entered into a sponsor funding agreement (the “Sponsor Funding Agreement”) with SST VI and Strategic Storage Operating Partnership

VI, L.P. (“SST VI OP”) in connection with certain changes to the public offering of SST VI (see Note 10 – Related Party Transactions for additional information).

Pursuant to the Sponsor Funding Agreement, SmartStop, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, is required to fund the payment of the front-end sales load for the sale of SST VI’s Class Y and Class Z shares sold in its offering. In exchange, SmartStop receives a number of Series C Convertible Subordinated Units (“Series C Units”) in SST VI OP calculated as the dollar amount of such funding divided by the then-current offering price, which was $9.30 through August 6, 2024 for such Class Y and Z shares. The Series C Units shall automatically convert into Class A units of SST VI OP on a one-to-one basis upon SST VI’s disclosure of an estimated net asset value per share equal to at least $10.00 per share for each class of SST VI shares of common stock, including the Class Y shares and Class Z shares, calculated net of the Series C Units to be converted. On August 7, 2024, SST VI declared an estimated net asset value per share of $10.00. Since the Series C Units that could be converted would result in the net asset value falling below $10.00 per share, none of the Series C Units we own were converted into Class A units of SST VI OP, and our future purchases will be determined based on the current estimated net asset value at such time. Subsequent to SST VI declaring an estimated net asset value of $10.00 per share, the number of Series C Units SmartStop receives in exchange for funding the front-end sales load of the sale of SST VI's Class Y and Class Z shares is calculated as the dollar amount of such sponsor funding divided by the current offering price of $10.00 per share for such Class Y and Z shares.

In accordance with ASC 606, the amount by which our funding exceeds the fair value of the Series C Units received is accounted for as a payment to a customer and is therefore recorded as a reduction to the transaction price for the services we provide to such customer. Each payment is initially included in the Other assets line-item in our consolidated balance sheet and subsequently recorded as a reduction of Managed REIT Platform revenues ratably over the remaining estimated life of our management contracts with SST VI. Below is a summary of the portion of sponsorship funding payments which exceeds the fair value of the Series C Units received, and is recorded pursuant to ASC 606 as described above (in thousands):

Balance as of December 31, 2023$3,493
Amounts incurred1,210
Recorded sponsor funding reduction(844)
Balance as of December 31, 2024$3,859
Amounts incurred$189
Recorded sponsor funding reduction(245)
Balance as of March 31, 2025$3,803

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Tenant accounts receivable is reported net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Management records this general allowance estimate based upon a review of the current status of accounts receivable. It is reasonably possible that management’s estimate of the allowance will change in the future. As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, approximately $0.9 million and $0.8 million, respectively, were recorded to allowance for doubtful accounts and are included within other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed in the period in which the cost is incurred and are included in property operating expenses and general and administrative lines within our consolidated statements of operations, depending on the nature of the expense.

We incurred advertising costs of approximately $1.4 million and $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, within property operating expenses, and approximately $0.5 million and $0.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, within general and administrative.

Real Estate Facilities

We capitalize costs incurred to develop, construct, renovate and improve properties, including interest and property taxes incurred during the construction period. The construction period begins when expenditures for the real estate assets have been made and activities that are necessary to prepare the asset for its intended use are in progress. The construction period ends when the asset is substantially complete and ready for its intended use.

Depreciation of Real Property Assets

Our management is required to make subjective assessments as to the useful lives of our depreciable assets. We consider the period of future benefit of the asset to determine the appropriate useful lives.

Depreciation of our real property assets is charged to expense on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives

as follows:

DescriptionStandard Depreciable Life
LandNot Depreciated
Buildings30-40 years
Site Improvements7-10 years

Depreciation of Personal Property Assets

Personal property assets consist primarily of furniture, fixtures and equipment and are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives, generally ranging from 3 to 5 years, and are included in other assets on our consolidated balance sheets.

Intangible Assets

We have allocated a portion of our real estate purchase price to in-place lease intangibles, which amortize on a straight-line basis over the estimated future benefit period. Additionally, we have other contract related intangible assets. As of March 31, 2025, the gross amount of the intangible assets was approximately $89.7 million, and accumulated amortization was approximately $81.2 million. As of December 31, 2024, the gross amount of the intangible assets was approximately $86.4 million, and accumulated amortization was approximately $79.6 million. See Note 10 – Related Party Transactions for additional information.

The total estimated future amortization expense related to intangible assets for the years ending December 31, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, and thereafter is approximately $4.9 million, $2.8 million, $0.1 million, $0.1 million, and $0.6 million thereafter, respectively. The weighted-average amortization period on our remaining intangible assets with a net book value of approximately $8.5 million was approximately 2.3 years as of March 31, 2025.

We evaluate whether any triggering events or changes in circumstances have occurred subsequent to our annual impairment test that would indicate an impairment condition may exist. If any change in circumstance or triggering event occurs, and results in a significant impact to our revenue and profitability projections, or any significant assumption in our valuations methods is adversely impacted, the impact could result in an impairment charge in the future.

Debt Issuance Costs

The net carrying value of costs incurred in connection with obtaining non revolving debt are presented on the balance sheet as a deduction from debt; amounts incurred related to obtaining revolving debt are included in the debt issuance costs line on our consolidated balance sheet. See Note 5 – Debt for additional information. Debt issuance costs are amortized using the effective interest method.

As of March 31, 2025 the gross amount of debt issuance costs related to our revolving credit facility totaled approximately $9.7 million and accumulated amortizationof debt issuance costs related to our revolving credit facility totaled approximately $3.4 million. As of December 31, 2024, the gross amount of debt issuance costs related to our revolving credit facility totaled approximately $9.4 million, and accumulated amortizationof debt issuance costs related to our revolving credit facility totaled approximately $2.6 million.

As of March 31, 2025, the gross amount allocated to debt issuance costs related to non-revolving debt totaled approximately$5.9 million and accumulated amortization of debt issuance costs related to non-revolving debt totaled approximately$2.9 million. As of December 31, 2024, the gross amount allocated to debt issuance costs related to non-revolving debt totaled approximately $6.4 million and accumulated amortization of debt issuance costs related to non-revolving debt totaled approximately $3.0 million.

Foreign Currency Translation

For non-U.S. functional currency operations, assets and liabilities are translated to U.S. dollars at current exchange rates, as of the reporting date. Revenues and expenses are translated at the average rates for the period. All adjustments related to amounts classified as long term net investments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a separate component of equity. Transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the related operation are recorded at rates of exchange in effect at the date of the transaction. Changes ininvestments not classified as long term are recorded in other income (expense) and represented a loss of approximately $4,000 and $1.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

Redeemable Common Stock

From our inception until April 29, 2025, we maintained a share redemption program (“SRP”) that enabled stockholders to sell their shares to us in limited circumstances.

We evaluated the terms of our SRP, and we classified amounts that were redeemable under the SRP as redeemable common stock in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The maximum amount of redeemable shares under our SRP was limited to the net proceeds from the distribution reinvestment plan. However, accounting guidance states that determinable amounts that can become redeemable should be presented as redeemable when such amount is known. Therefore, the net proceeds from the distribution reinvestment plan were considered to be temporary equity and were presented as redeemable common stock in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

In addition, current accounting guidance requires, among other things, that financial instruments that represent a mandatory obligation of us to repurchase shares be classified as liabilities and reported at settlement value. When we determined that we had a mandatory obligation to repurchase shares under the SRP, we reclassified such obligations from temporary equity to a liability based upon their respective settlement values.

See Note 12 – Commitments and Contingencies for additional information on our SRP.

Accounting for Equity Awards

We issue equity based awards in two forms: (1) restricted stock awards consisting of shares of our common stock and (2) long-term incentive plan units of our Operating Partnership (“LTIP Units”), both of which may be issued subject to either time based vesting criteria or performance based vesting criteria restrictions. For time based awards granted which contain a graded vesting schedule, compensation cost is recognized as an expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period as if the award was, in substance, a single award. For performance based awards, compensation cost is recognized over the requisite service period if and when we determine the performance condition is probable of being achieved. We record the cost of such equity based awards based on the grant date fair value, and have elected to record forfeitures as they occur.

Employee Benefit Plan

The Company maintains its own retirement savings plan under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended (the "Code"), under which eligible employees can contribute up to 100% of their annual salary, subject to a statutory prescribed annual limit. The Company matches 100% on contributions up to the first 4% of an employee’s compensation.

Fair Value Measurements

Under GAAP, we are required to measure certain financial instruments at fair value on a recurring basis. In addition, we are required to measure other financial instruments and balances at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Fair value is defined by the accounting standard for fair value measurements and disclosures as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. It also establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes observable and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value into three levels. The following summarizes the three levels of inputs and hierarchy of fair value we use when measuring fair value:

Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access;

Level 2 inputs may include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, as well as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals; and

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the assets or liabilities that are typically based on an entity’s own assumptions as there is little, if any, related market activity.

In instances where the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the fair value measurement will fall within the lowest level that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

The accounting guidance for fair value measurements and disclosures provides a framework for measuring fair value and establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. In determining fair value, we will utilize valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to the extent possible as well as consider counterparty credit risk in our assessment of fair value. Considerable judgment will be necessary to interpret Level 2 and 3 inputs in determining fair value of our financial and non-financial assets and liabilities. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the fair values we will present will be indicative of amounts that may ultimately be realized upon sale or other disposition of these assets.

Financial and non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis in our consolidated financial statements consist of real estate and related liabilities assumed related to our acquisitions along with the assets and liabilities described in Note 3 – Real Estate Facilities. The fair values of these assets and liabilities were determined as of the acquisition dates using widely accepted valuation techniques, including (i) discounted cash flow analysis, which considers, among other things, leasing assumptions, growth rates, discount rates and terminal capitalization rates, (ii) income capitalization approach, which considers prevailing market capitalization rates, and (iii) market approach, which considers comparable sales activity. Additionally, certain such assets and liabilities are required to be fair valued periodically or valued pursuant to ongoing fair value requirements and impairment analyses and have been valued subsequently utilizing the same techniques noted above. In general, we consider multiple valuation techniques when measuring fair values. However, in certain circumstances, a single valuation technique may be appropriate. All of the fair values of the assets and liabilities as of the acquisition dates were derived using Level 3 inputs.

The Series C Units (categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy) acquired in connection with the Sponsor Funding Agreement are measured at fair value at the time of acquisition, and are accounted for using the equity method of accounting as described in Note 10 – Related Party Transactions. The fair value of these units were determined upon purchase using a valuation model which considered the following key assumptions: the projected distribution rate of SST VI, implied share price volatility, risk free interest rate, current estimated net asset value, and the estimated effective life of the Series C Units.

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, other assets, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, distributions payable and amounts due to affiliates approximate fair value (categorized within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy).

The estimated fair value of financial instruments is subjective in nature and is dependent on a number of important assumptions, including discount rates and relevant comparable market information associated with each financial instrument. The fair value of our fixed and variable rate debt was estimated by discounting the future cash flows using the current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for the same remaining maturities (categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy). The use of different market assumptions and estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the reported estimated fair value amounts. As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, we believe the fair value of our variable rate debt was reasonably estimated at their notional amounts as there have been minimal changes to the fixed spread portion of interest rates for similar loans observed in the market, and as the variable portion of our interest rates fluctuate with the associated market indices. The table below summarizes the carrying amounts and fair values of our fixed rate debt which are not carried at fair value as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 (in thousands):

March 31, 2025December 31, 2024
Fair ValueCarrying ValueFair ValueCarrying Value
Fixed Rate Secured Debt$487,000$504,236$531,400$554,348

During the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, we held interest rate cash flow hedges and foreign currency net investment and cash flow hedges to hedge our interest rate and foreign currency exposure (See Notes 5 – Debt and 7 – Derivative Instruments). The fair value analyses of these instruments reflect the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and used observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves, foreign exchange rates, and implied volatilities, as applicable. The fair value of interest rate swap and cap agreements are determined using widely accepted valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow analyses on the expected cash flows of the instruments. Our fair values of our net investment hedges are based primarily on the change in the spot rate at the end of the period as compared with the strike price at inception.

To comply with GAAP, we incorporate credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both our own nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of derivative contracts for the effect of non-performance risk, we consider the impact of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, mutual puts, and guarantees.

Although we had determined that the majority of the inputs used to value our derivatives were within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the credit valuation adjustments associated with our derivatives utilized Level 3 inputs, such as estimates of current credit spreads, to evaluate the likelihood of default by us and our counterparties. However, through March 31, 2025, we had assessed the significance of the impact of the credit valuation adjustments on the overall valuation of our derivative positions and determined that the credit valuation adjustments were not significant to the overall valuation of our derivatives. As a result, we determined that our derivative valuations in their entirety were classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

The tables below present the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall (in thousands):

Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2025 Using
DescriptionQuoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets(Level 1)Significant Other Observable Inputs(Level 2)Significant unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
Interest Rate Derivatives
Other assets$—$2,158$—
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$—$8,225$—
Foreign Currency Hedges
Other assets$5,102
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$—$18$—
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2024 Using
DescriptionQuoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets(Level 1)Significant Other Observable Inputs(Level 2)Significant unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
Interest Rate Derivatives
Other assets$—$1,523$—
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$—$6,591$—
Foreign Currency Hedges
Other assets$—$4,667$—
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$—$39$—

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We record all derivatives on our balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether we have elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. Derivatives designated and qualifying as a hedge of the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivatives designated and qualifying as a hedge of the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. Derivatives may also be designated as hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. We may enter into derivative contracts that are intended to economically hedge certain of our risks, even though hedge accounting does not apply or we elect not to apply hedge accounting.

For derivatives designated as net investment hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivatives are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives is recognized in Other, net, within our consolidated statements of operations. Amounts are reclassified out of other comprehensive (loss) income (“OCI”) into earnings (loss) when the hedged net investment is either sold or substantially liquidated.

Income Taxes

We made an election to be taxed as a Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”), under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), commencing with our taxable year ended December 31, 2014. To qualify as a REIT, we must continue to meet certain organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement to distribute at least 90% of the REIT’s taxable income to stockholders (which is computed without regard to the dividends paid deduction or net capital gains and which does not equal net income as calculated in accordance with GAAP).

For income tax purposes, distributions to common stockholders are characterized as ordinary dividends, capital gain dividends, or as nontaxable distributions. To the extent that we make a distribution in excess of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, the distribution will be a non-taxable return of capital, reducing the tax basis in each U.S. stockholder’s shares, and the amount of each distribution in excess of a U.S. stockholder’s tax basis in its shares will be taxable as gain realized from the sale of its shares.

As a REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on taxable income that we distribute to our stockholders. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will then be subject to U.S. federal income taxes on our taxable income at regular corporate rates and will not be permitted to qualify for treatment as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes for four years following the year during which qualification is lost unless the IRS grants us relief under certain statutory provisions. Such an event could materially adversely affect our net income and net cash available for distribution to stockholders. However, we believe that we are organized and operate in such a manner as to qualify for treatment as a REIT and intend to operate in the foreseeable future in such a manner that we will remain qualified as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Even if we continue to qualify for taxation as a REIT, we may be subject to certain state, local, and foreign taxes on our income and property, and federal income and excise taxes on our undistributed income.

We filed an election to treat our primary taxable REIT subsidiary (“TRS”) as a taxable REIT subsidiary effective January 1, 2014. In general, our TRS performs additional services for our customers and provides the advisory and property management services to the Managed REITs and otherwise generally engages in non-real estate related business. The TRS is subject to corporate federal and state income tax.

We account for deferred income taxes using the asset and liability method and recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in our financial statements or tax returns. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse.

Any increase or decrease in the deferred tax liability that results from a change in circumstances, and that causes a change in our judgment about expected future tax consequences of events, is included in the tax provision when such changes occur. Deferred income taxes also reflect the impact of operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. A valuation allowance is provided if we believe it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. Any increase or decrease in the valuation allowance that results from a change in circumstances, and that causes a change in our judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset, is included in the tax provision when such changes occur.

Uncertain tax positions may arise where tax laws may allow for alternative interpretations or where the timing of recognition of income is subject to judgment. Under ASC Topic 740, tax positions are evaluated for recognition using a more–likely–than–not threshold, and those tax positions requiring recognition are measured at the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. Interest and penalties relating to uncertain tax positions will be recognized in income tax expense when incurred. As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company had no uncertain tax positions. Income taxes payable are classified within accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

Concentration

No single self storage customer represents a significant concentration of our revenues. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, approximately 21.8%,21.4%, and 9.2% of our rental income was concentrated in California, Florida, and the Greater Toronto Area of Canada, respectively. Our properties within the aforementioned geographic areas are dispersed therein, operating in multiple different regions and sub-markets.

Segment Reporting

Our business is composed oftwo reportable segments: (i) self storage operations and (ii) the Managed REIT Platform business. Please see Note 9 – Segment Disclosures for additional detail.

Convertible Preferred Stock

We classify our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (as defined in Note 6 – Preferred Equity) on our consolidated balance sheets using the guidance in ASC 480-10-S99. Per the original terms of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, it could be redeemed by us on or after the fifth anniversary of its issuance (October 29, 2024), or if certain events occur, such as the listing of our common stock on a national securities exchange, a change in control, or if a redemption would be required to maintain our REIT status. Additionally, if we did not maintain our REIT status the holder could require redemption. As the shares were contingently redeemable, and under certain circumstances not solely within our control, we classified our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock as temporary equity.

We have analyzed whether the conversion features in our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock should be bifurcated under the guidance in ASC 815-10 and have determined that bifurcation is not necessary.

Our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock was redeemed on April 4, 2025, with proceeds from our Underwritten Public Offering. See Note 6 – Preferred Equity for additional information.

Per Share Data

Basic earnings per share attributable to our common stockholders for all periods presented are computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to our common stockholders for basic computations of earnings per share by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, excluding unvested restricted stock.

Diluted earnings per share is computed by including the dilutive effect of the conversion of all potential common stock equivalents (which includes unvested restricted stock, Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, Class A and Class A-1 OP Units, and unvested LTIP Units) and accordingly, as applicable, adjusting net income to add back any changes in earnings that reduce earnings per common share in the period associated with the potential common stock equivalents.

The computation of earnings per common share is as follows for the periods presented(amounts presented in thousands, except share and per share data):

For the Three Months Ended March 31,
20252024
Net loss$(5,456)$(1,640)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests503100
Net loss attributable to SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc.(4,953)(1,540)
Less: Distributions to preferred stockholders(3,452)(3,108)
Less: Distributions to participating securities(117)(114)
Net loss attributable to common stockholders - basic:(8,522)(4,762)
Net loss attributable to common stockholders - diluted:$(8,522)$(4,762)
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Average number of common shares outstanding- basic24,018,55324,207,976
Average number of common shares outstanding - diluted24,018,55324,207,976
Earnings per common share:
Basic$(0.35)$(0.20)
Diluted$(0.35)$(0.20)

The following table presents the weighted average Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, Class A and Class A-1 OP Units, unvested LTIP Units, and unvested restricted stock awards, that were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share above as their effect would have been antidilutive for the respective periods, and was calculated using the two-class, treasury stock or if-converted method, as applicable:

For the Three Months Ended March 31,
20252024
Equivalent Shares(if converted)Equivalent Shares(if converted)
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock4,690,4324,690,432
Class A and Class A-1 OP Units3,375,3303,281,961
Unvested LTIP Units68,13581,148
Unvested restricted stock awards4,8893,340
8,138,7868,056,881

Recently Issued Accounting Guidance

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740).” The guidance in ASU 2023-09 was issued to provide investors with information to better assess how an entity’s operations and related tax risks, tax planning and operational opportunities affect its tax rate and prospects for future cash flows. The amendment becomes effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. Upon adoption, we do not anticipate that this ASU will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements or related disclosures.

In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, “Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses (Topic 220).” The guidance in ASU 2024-03 was issued to provide investors with more disaggregated information about an entity’s expenses. In January 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-01 for the sole purpose of clarifying the effective date of ASU 2024-03. The amendment becomes effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027. We are currently evaluating the impact upon adoption of the new standard on our consolidated financial statements or related disclosures.

Note 3. Real Estate

The following summarizes the activity in real estate facilities during the three months ended March 31, 2025 (in thousands):

Real estate
Balance at December 31, 2024$2,091,196
Impact of foreign exchange rate changes and other239
Improvements and additions4,963
Acquisitions79,206
Balance at March 31, 2025$2,175,604
Accumulated depreciation
Balance at December 31, 2024$(305,132)
Depreciation expense(14,741)
Impact of foreign exchange rate changes and other(32)
Balance at March 31, 2025$(319,905)

Self Storage Facility Acquisitions

On January 7, 2025, we purchased a self storage facility located in Hillside, New Jersey (the "Hillside Property"). The purchase price for the Hillside Property was approximately $35.9 million, plus closing costs. This acquisition was funded with proceeds drawn from the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility.

On January 7, 2025, we purchased a self storage facility located in Clifton, New Jersey (the "Clifton Property"). The purchase price for the Clifton Property was approximately $38.6 million, plus closing costs. This acquisition was funded with proceeds drawn from the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility.

On February 20, 2025, we purchased a self storage facility located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee (the "Murfreesboro Property"). The purchase price for the Murfreesboro Property was approximately $7.9 million, plus closing costs. This acquisition was funded with proceeds drawn from the Credit Facility.

The following table summarizes the purchase price allocations for the real estate related assets acquired during the three months ended March 31, 2025 (in thousands):

AcquisitionAcquisitionDateOccupancy Upon Acquisition(1)Real EstateAssetsIntangiblesTotal (2)2025Revenue(3)2025SegmentOperating Income(3)(4)
Hillside1/7/202589%$34,556$1,388$35,944$581$384
Clifton1/7/202593%37,0721,57538,647661466
Murfreesboro2/20/202589%7,5783297,9077943
$79,206$3,292$82,498$1,321$893

(1)Represents the approximate occupancy percentage of the property at the time of acquisition.

(2) The allocation noted above is based on a determination of the relative fair value of the total consideration provided and represents the amount paid including capitalized acquisition costs.

(3)The operating results of the self storage properties acquired have been included in our consolidated statements of operations since their acquisition dates.

(4) Segment operating income excludes corporate general and administrative expenses, interest expense, depreciation, amortization and acquisition related expenses.

Potential Acquisitions

As of May 9, 2025, we, through our wholly-owned subsidiaries, were party tofour purchase and sale agreements with unaffiliated third parties for the acquisition ofnine self storage facilities or development sites located in the United States and Canada. The total purchase price for these properties and sites is approximately $157.8 million, plus closing costs. We plan to close onsix of the properties, totaling approximately 489,800 net rentable square feet and a combined purchase price of $120.8 million, with the remaining assets to be acquired by one of the Managed REITs. There can be no assurance that we will complete these acquisitions. If we fail to acquire these properties, in addition to the incurred acquisition costs, we may also forfeit earnest money of approximately $1.8 million as a result.

We may assign some or all of the above purchase and sale agreements to one or more of our Managed REITs.

Note 4. Investments in Unconsolidated Real Estate Ventures

Nantucket Joint Venture

On July 18, 2024, we entered into a joint venture arrangement with an unaffiliated third party to develop a self storage property in Nantucket, Massachusetts (the "Nantucket Joint Venture"). On such date we agreed to purchase a minority ownership in the property of approximately 38%, and immediately funded approximately $4.9 million. Upon completion of development, we expect to serve as property manager of the self storage property. This investment is accounted for pursuant to the equity method of accounting as we have the ability to exercise influence, but not control. As of March 31, 2025, and December 31, 2024, the carrying value of this investment was approximately $6.0 million and $6.0 million, respectively.

On April 11, 2025, we funded an additional approximately $0.3 million, which represented the remaining unfunded capital commitment in connection with this joint venture arrangement.

SmartCentres Joint Ventures

We are party to joint venture agreements with a subsidiary of SmartCentres, an unaffiliated third party, to acquire, develop, and operate self storage facilities. In connection with such agreements, as 50% owner and SmartCentres as the other 50% owner of a joint venture subsidiary, we own eleven joint venture properties, ten of which were operational as of March 31, 2025.

For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, we recorded net aggregate loss of approximately $0.2 million and $0.3 million respectively, from our equity in earnings related to our unconsolidated real estate ventures in Canada.

The following table summarizes our 50% ownership interests in investments in unconsolidated real estate ventures in Canada (the “Canadian JV Properties”) (in thousands):

Canadian JV PropertyDate Real Estate Venture Became OperationalCarrying Value of Investment as ofMarch 31, 2025Carrying Value of Investment as ofDecember 31, 2024
Dupont (1)(6)October 2019$3,322$3,358
East York (2)(6)June 20204,9974,945
Brampton (2)(6)November 20201,5421,533
Vaughan (2)(6)January 20212,0152,019
Oshawa (2)(6)August 2021930938
Scarborough (2)(5)November 20212,0091,969
Aurora (1)(5)December 20221,9091,935
Kingspoint (2)(5)March 20233,2633,299
Whitby (4)January 20247,6737,661
Markham (1)(7)May 20242,4402,470
Regent (3)Under Development3,3732,655
$33,473$32,782

(1)

These joint venture properties were acquired through our merger with Strategic Storage Growth Trust II, Inc., which closed on June 1, 2022.

(2)

These joint venture properties were acquired through our merger with Strategic Storage Trust IV, Inc., which closed on March 17, 2021.

(3)

This property was occupied pursuant to a single tenant industrial lease until October 2024. The property is under development to become a self storage facility in the future.

(4)

This property was acquired on January 12, 2023 in connection with a purchase agreement assumed in our merger with Strategic Storage Growth Trust II, Inc., which closed on June 1, 2022.

(5)

These properties are encumbered by first mortgages pursuant to the RBC JV Term Loan II (defined below).

(6)

These properties are encumbered by first mortgages pursuant to the RBC JV Term Loan (defined below).

(7)

This property is encumbered by a first mortgage pursuant to the SmartCentres Financings (defined below).

As of March 31, 2025, we had ownership interests in theeleven Canadian JV Properties, andone unconsolidated real estate development project in Nantucket, Massachusetts, the Nantucket Joint Venture, collectively (the "JV Properties").

RBC JV Term Loan II

On July 17, 2024, three of our joint ventures with SmartCentres closed on a $46.0 million CAD term loan (the “RBC JV Term Loan II”) with Royal Bank Canada ("RBC") pursuant to which three of our joint venture subsidiaries that each own 50% of a Canadian JV Property serve as borrowers (the “RBC Borrowers II”). The RBC JV Term Loan II is secured by first mortgages on three of the Canadian JV Properties which were previously encumbered by the SmartCentres Financings. The maturity date of the RBC JV Term Loan II is November 3, 2025, which may be requested to be extended by one additional year at the sole discretion of RBC and subject to certain conditions. Interest on the RBC JV Term Loan is a fixed annual rate of 4.97%, and payments are interest only during the term of the loan.

We and SmartCentres each serve as a full recourse guarantor with respect to 50% of the secured obligations under the RBC JV Term Loan II. The RBC JV Term Loan II contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative, negative and financial covenants, and events of default. Pursuant to the terms of the RBC JV Term Loan II, a failure by either us or SmartCentres to observe any negative covenant under each of our respective (and separate) credit facilities (“Separate Credit Facilities”) would be an event of default under the RBC JV Term Loan II. We and SmartCentres entered into a separate Cross-Indemnity Agreement pursuant to which we and SmartCentres have each agreed to indemnify the other party with respect to any claims arising from a breach or default of the other party pursuant to the RBC JV Term Loan II or the Separate Credit Facilities.

The net proceeds from the RBC JV Term Loan II, in combination with cash on hand were used to fully repay the allocated loan amounts of approximately $46.4 million CAD or approximately $34.1 million USD under the SmartCentres Financings for each of the three Canadian JV Properties.

As of March 31, 2025, there was approximately $46.0 million CAD or approximately $32.0 million USD outstanding on the RBC JV Term Loan II.

RBC JV Term Loan

On November 3, 2023, five of our joint ventures with SmartCentres closed on a $70 million CAD term loan (the “RBC JV Term Loan”) with RBC pursuant to which five of our joint venture subsidiaries that each own 50% of a Joint Venture property serve as borrowers (the “RBC Borrowers”). The RBC JV Term Loan is secured by first mortgages on five of the Canadian JV Properties which were previously encumbered by the SmartCentres Financings (as defined below). The maturity date of the RBC JV Term Loan is November 2, 2025, which may be requested to be extended by one additional year by the RBC Borrowers, subject to the approval of RBC in its sole and absolute discretion. Interest on the RBC JV Term Loan is a fixed annual rate of 6.21%, and payments are interest only during the term of the loan.

We and SmartCentres each serve as a full recourse guarantor with respect to 50%of the secured obligations under the RBC JV Term Loan. The RBC JV Term Loan contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative, negative and financial covenants, and events of default. Pursuant to the terms of the RBC JV Term Loan, a failure by either us or SmartCentres to observe any negative covenant under each of our Separate Credit Facilities would be an event of default under the RBC JV Term Loan; in addition, certain actions by either us or SmartCentres may trigger an event of default under the RBC JV Term Loan. We and SmartCentres entered into a separate Cross-Indemnity Agreement pursuant to whichwe and SmartCentres have each agreed to indemnify the other party with respect to any claims arising from a breach or default of the other party pursuant to the RBC JV Term Loan or the Separate Credit Facilities.

The majority of net proceeds from the RBC JV Term Loan were used to fully repay the allocated loan amounts of approximately $68.9 million CAD under the SmartCentres Financings (as defined below) for each of the five Canadian JV Properties.

As of March 31, 2025, $70.0 million CAD or approximately $48.8 million in USD, was outstanding on the RBC JV Term Loan.

SmartCentres Financings

In connection with the SST IV Merger, we, through our acquisition of the Oshawa, East York, Brampton, Vaughan, and Scarborough joint venture partnerships, also became party to a master mortgage commitment agreement (the “MMCA I”) with SmartCentres Storage Finance LP (the “SmartCentres Lender”) (the “SmartCentres Loan I”). The SmartCentres Lender is an affiliate of SmartCentres. On August 18, 2021, the Kingspoint Property was added to the MMCA I, increasing the available capacity.

On June 1, 2022, in connection with the SSGT II Merger, we assumed another loan with the SmartCentres Lender. SSGT II had previously entered into a master mortgage commitment agreement on April 30, 2021, which was subsequently modified on October 22, 2021 (the “MMCA II”), with the SmartCentres Lender in the amount of up to approximately $34.3 million CAD (the “SmartCentres Loan II”) (collectively with SmartCentres Loan I, the “SmartCentres Financings”). The borrowers under the SmartCentres Loan II are the joint venture entities in which we (SSGT II prior to June 1, 2022), and SmartCentres each hold a 50% limited partnership interest with respect to the Dupont and Aurora joint venture properties. In connection with the SmartCentres Loan II assumption, we became a recourse guarantor for 50% of the SmartCentres Financings. On September 13, 2022, the Markham Property was added to the MMCA II, increasing the available capacity.

The SmartCentres Loan I and SmartCentres Loan II have an accordion feature such that borrowings pursuant thereto may be increased up to approximately $120 million CAD each, subject to certain conditions set forth in the MMCA I and MMCA II agreements. Additionally, pursuant to the MMCA I and MMCA II agreements, the collective borrowings between all SmartCentres Financings, and loans made by the SmartCentres Lender to our affiliates, are limited to an overall combined capacity of $120 million CAD.

The SmartCentres Financings were amended on May 13, 2024, extending the maturity date to May 11, 2026, among other changes. Monthly interest payments initially increase the outstanding principal balance. Upon a Canadian JV Property generating sufficient net cash flow, the SmartCentres Financings provide for the commencement of quarterly payments of interest. The borrowings advanced pursuant to the SmartCentres Financings may be prepaid without penalty, subject to certain conditions set forth in the MMCA I and MMCA II.

The SmartCentres Financings contain customary affirmative and negative covenants, agreements, representations, warranties and borrowing conditions (including a loan to value ratio of no greater than 70% with respect to each Canadian JV Property) and events of default, all as set forth in the MMCA I and MMCA II. We serve as a full recourse guarantor with respect to 50% of the SmartCentres Financings. As of March 31, 2025, the joint ventures were in compliance with all such covenants.

On July 17, 2024, three of our joint ventures with SmartCentres closed on a $46.0 million CAD term loan with RBC pursuant to which three of our joint venture subsidiaries that each own 50% of a Canadian JV Property serve as borrowers. The RBC JV Term Loan II is secured by first mortgages on three of the Canadian JV Properties which were previously encumbered by the SmartCentres Financings. The net proceeds from such loan were used to fully repay the allocated loan amounts of approximately $46.4 million CAD or approximately $34.1 million USD under the SmartCentres Financings for each of the three Canadian JV Properties.

Interest on the SmartCentres Financings is a variable annual rate equal to the aggregate of: (i) the BA Equivalent Rate, plus: (ii) a margin based on the External Credit Rating, plus (iii) a margin under the Senior Credit Facility, each as defined and described further in the MMCA I and MMCA II. As of March 31, 2025, the total interest rate was approximately 5.8%.

As of March 31, 2025, approximately $19.0 million CAD or approximately $13.2 million in USD, was outstanding on the SmartCentres Financings. As of December 31, 2024, approximately $18.7 million CAD or approximately $13.0 million USD was outstanding on the SmartCentres Financings. The proceeds of the SmartCentres Financings have been and will generally be used to finance the acquisition, development, and construction of the Canadian JV Properties.

Note 5. Debt

Our debt is summarized as follows (in thousands):

LoanMarch 31, 2025December 31,2024InterestRateMaturityDate
2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility$175,000$100,2007.26%11/19/2025
KeyBank CMBS Loan(1)88,76389,2403.89%8/1/2026
Ladera Office Loan3,7113,7364.29%11/1/2026
Credit Facility678,831614,8316.36%2/22/2027
2027 NBC Loan (5) (6)51,23751,4255.27%3/7/2027
2027 Ladera Ranch Loan42,00042,0005.00%12/5/2027
2028 Canadian Term Loan (5) (7)76,62676,5276.41%12/1/2028
CMBS Loan(3)104,000104,0005.00%2/1/2029
SST IV CMBS Loan (4)40,50040,5003.56%2/1/2030
2032 Private Placement Notes150,000150,0005.28%4/19/2032
KeyBank Florida CMBS Loan(2)—49,915
Discount on secured debt, net(1,365)(1,570)
Debt issuance costs, net(3,040)(3,369)
Total debt$1,406,263$1,317,435

(1)

This fixed rate loan encumbers 29 properties (Whittier, La Verne, Santa Ana, Upland, La Habra, Monterey Park, Huntington Beach, Chico, Lancaster I, Riverside, Fairfield, Lompoc, Santa Rosa, Federal Heights, Aurora, Littleton, Bloomingdale, Crestwood, Forestville, Warren I, Sterling Heights, Troy, Warren II, Beverly, Everett, Foley, Tampa, Boynton Beach, and Lancaster II) with monthly interest only payments until September 2021, at which time both interest and principal payments became due monthly. The separate assets of these encumbered properties are not available to pay our other debts, and we serve as a non-recourse guarantor under this loan.

(2)

On February 4, 2025, we completed a series of transactions whereby we (i) defeased this loan (the “Defeasance”), (ii) exercised the accordion rights under the Credit Facility to increase commitments by $50 million to a total of $700 million and simultaneously drew approximately $51 million, and (iii) in connection with the completion of the Defeasance, executed joinders to add the five properties previously encumbered by the KeyBank Florida CMBS Loan onto the Credit Facility.

(3)

This fixed rate, interest only loan encumbers 10 properties(Myrtle Beach I, Myrtle Beach II, Port St. Lucie, Plantation, Sonoma, Las Vegas I, Las Vegas II, Las Vegas III, Ft Pierce, and Nantucket Island). The separate assetsof these encumbered properties are not available to pay our other debts, and we serve as a non-recourse guarantor under this loan.

(4)

On March 17, 2021, in connection with the SST IV Merger, we assumed a $40.5 million fixed rate CMBS financing with KeyBank as the initial lender pursuant to a mortgage loan (the “SST IV CMBS Loan”). This fixed rate loan encumbers seven properties owned by us (Jensen Beach, Texas City, Riverside, Las Vegas IV, Puyallup, Las Vegas V, and Plant City). The separate assets of these encumbered properties are not available to pay our other debts, and we serve as a non-recourse guarantor under this loan. The loan has a maturity date of February 1, 2030. Monthly payments due under the loan agreement (the “SST IV CMBS Loan Agreement”) are interest only, with the full principal amount becoming due and payable on the maturity date.

(5)

The amounts shown above are in USD based on the foreign exchange rate in effect as of the date presented.

(6)

This loan incurs interest at an all in rate of CORRA (as defined further below under the section entitled "2027 NBC Loan"), plus a CORRA adjustment of approximately 0.30%, plus a spread of 2.20%. The effective interest rate on this loan is 6.42% when factoring the effects of a CORRA Swap which we entered into with the National Bank of Canada for the initial term of the loan. The Dufferin, Oakville II, Burlington II, Iroquois Shore Rd, and Stoney Creek I properties are encumbered by this loan. See Note 7– Derivative Instruments for additional information.

(7)

On November 16, 2023, we, through eight of our wholly-owned Canadian subsidiaries entered into a term loan (the "2028 Canadian Term Loan") with affiliates of QuadReal Finance LP, receiving net proceeds of $110.0 million CAD on such date. The 2028 Canadian Term Loan is secured by eight Canadian properties, has a maturity date of December 1, 2028, and carries a fixed interest rate for the term of the loan of 6.41%. The first two years of the Canadian Term Loan are interest only, after which it requires monthly amortizing payments based on a 25-year amortization schedule.

The weighted average interest rate on our consolidated debt, excluding the impact of our interest rate hedging activities, as of March 31, 2025 was approximately 5.9%. We are subject to certain restrictive covenants, relating to the outstanding debt, and as of March 31, 2025, we were in compliance with all such covenants.

2027 Ladera Ranch Loan

On December 20, 2024, in connection with our acquisition of the Ladera Ranch Property from Extra Space Storage, we, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into a loan with Extra Space Storage LP, as lender, with a loan amount of $42.0 million (the "2027 Ladera Ranch Loan"). The loan is interest only with a fixed rate of 5.0% per annum, has a maturity date of December 5, 2027, and is secured by the Ladera Ranch Property. An origination fee of 3.0% or approximately $1.3 million was paid at closing. We also provided a non-recourse guaranty to Extra Space Storage LP in connection with this loan.

See Note 6 – Preferred Equity, for additional information regarding our other pre-existing relationship with this seller/lender.

2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility

On November 19, 2024, we entered into a credit agreement with KeyBank with a maximum total commitment of $175 million (the "2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility"). Upon the closing of the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility, we immediately borrowed approximately $15 million, which was used to fund the acquisition ofa self storage facility. In December 2024, we borrowed an additional approximately $85.2 million, which was used to fund the acquisition ofthree self storage facilities.

In January of 2025, we borrowed an additional approximately $74.8 million, which was used to fund the acquisition oftwo self storage facilities. As such, the maximum commitment of $175 million was borrowed, and no further draws could be made in connection with the credit agreement.

The 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility was originally due on November 19, 2025.

Amounts borrowed under the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility bore interest based on the type of borrowing (either Base Rate Loans, Daily Simple SOFR Loans, or Term SOFR Loans, each as defined in the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility). Base Rate Loans bore interest at the lesser of (x) the Base Rate (as defined in the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility) plus the applicable rate, or (y) the maximum rate. Daily Simple SOFR Loans bore interest at the lesser of (a) Adjusted Daily Simple SOFR (as defined in the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility) plus the applicable rate, or (b) the maximum rate. Term SOFR Loans bore interest at the lesser of (a) Term SOFR (as defined in the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility) for the interest period in effect plus the applicable rate, or (b) the maximum rate. The corresponding applicable rate is (i) prior to the extension period, if any (A)275 basis points for Daily Simple SOFR Loans and Term SOFR Loans and (B)175 basis points for Base Rate Loans, and (ii) after the extension period, if any (A)325 basis points for Daily Simple SOFR Loans and Term SOFR Loans and (B)225 basis points for Base Rate Loans. The initial advance under the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility was a Daily Simple SOFR Loan that bore interest at 275 basis points over Adjusted Daily Simple SOFR.

The 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility was fully recourse, jointly and severally, to us, the borrower, and certain of our subsidiaries (each, a “Subsidiary Guarantor”).

The 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility was initially secured by: (i) a pledge of equity interests in each Subsidiary Guarantor and (ii) a pledge of all net proceeds from any capital event of us or our subsidiaries, which includes equity issuances, sales of properties and refinancing of indebtedness.

The 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility contained certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative, negative and financial covenants, borrowing conditions, and events of default.

On April 4, 2025, we fully repaid the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility, including accrued interest, using proceeds from the Underwritten Public Offering which closed on April 3, 2025.

Credit Facility

On February 22, 2024, we through our Operating Partnership (the “Borrower”), entered into an amended and restated revolving credit facility with KeyBank, National Association, as administrative agent and collateral agent, certain others listed as joint book runners, joint lead arrangers, syndication agents and documentation agents, and certain other lenders party thereto, (the "Credit Facility"). The Credit Facility replaced the Former Credit Facility (defined below) the Company entered into on March 17, 2021, and has a maturity date of February 22, 2027.

The aggregate commitment of the Credit Facility was originally $650 million. The Borrower may increase the commitment amount available under the Credit Facility by an additional $850 million, for a total potential maximum aggregate amount of $1.5 billion, subject to certain conditions. On February 4, 2025, we exercised the accordion rights under the Credit Facility to increase commitments by $50 million to a total of $700 million. The Credit Facility also includes sublimits of (a) up to $25 million for letters of credit and (b) up to $25 million for swingline loans; each of these sublimits are part of, and not in addition to, the amounts available under the Credit Facility. Borrowings under the Credit Facility may be in either USD or CAD. Upon the closing of the Credit Facility, we immediately drew down an aggregate amount of $576 million, which was used primarily to pay off the amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility.

The maturity date of the Credit Facility is February 22, 2027, subject to aone-year extension option, subject to the payment of an extension fee of 0.20% on the aggregate amount of the then-outstanding revolving commitments for such extension, and it may be prepaid or terminated at any time without penalty; provided, however, that the lenders shall be indemnified for certain breakage costs.

Amounts borrowed under the Credit Facility bear interest based on the type of borrowing (either Base Rate Loans, Daily Simple SOFR Loans, Term SOFR Loans or CORRA Loans, each as defined in the Credit Facility). Base Rate Loans bear interest at the lesser of (x) the Base Rate (as defined in the Credit Facility) plus the applicable rate, or (y) the maximum rate. Daily Simple SOFR Loans bear interest at the lesser of (a) Adjusted Daily Simple SOFR (as defined in the Credit Facility) plus the applicable rate, or (b) the maximum rate. Term SOFR Loans bear interest at the lesser of (a) Term SOFR (as defined in the Credit Facility) for the interest period in effect plus the applicable rate, or (b) the maximum rate. CORRA Loans bear interest at the lesser of (a) Adjusted Daily Simple CORRA (as defined in the Credit Facility) plus the applicable rate, or (b) the maximum rate. The corresponding applicable rate varies between (i) prior to a Security Interest Termination Event (defined below),165 basis points to 230 basis points for Daily Simple SOFR Loans, Term SOFR Loans and CORRA Loans and between 65 basis points and 130 basis points for Base Rate Loans, in each case of this clause (i), depending on the consolidated leverage ratio of the Company and (ii) following a Security Interest Termination Event,140 basis points to 225 basis points for Daily Simple SOFR Loans, Term SOFR Loans and CORRA Loans and between 40 basis points and 125 basis points for Base Rate Loans, in each case of this clause (ii), depending on the consolidated capitalization rate leverage ratio of the Company. The Credit Facility is also subject to an annual unused fee based upon the average amount of the unused portion of the Credit Facility, which varies from 15 bps to 25 bps, depending on the size of the unused amount, as well as whether a Security Interest Termination Event has occurred.

As of March 31, 2025, borrowings under the Credit Facility only bore interest based on Daily Simple SOFR. The rate spread above Daily Simple SOFR at which the Credit Facility incurs interest is subject to increase based on the consolidated leverage ratio. There are five leverage tiers under the Credit Facility, with the highest tier limited to a maximum leverage of 60% and a maximum spread of 230 basis points on the Credit Facility. During the three months ended March 31, 2025, our consolidated leverage ratio was within the second leverage tier, and this loan incurred interest at daily simple SOFR plus a spread of 1.85% and the SOFR Index Adjustment of 0.10%. As of March 31, 2025, the consolidated leverage ratio was within the third leverage tier.

The Credit Facility is fully recourse, jointly and severally, to us, the Borrower, and certain of our subsidiaries (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”). In connection with the Credit Facility, we, the Borrower and the Subsidiary Guarantors executed guarantees in favor of the lenders. It is an event of default under the Credit Facility if (a) there is a payment default by us, the Borrower or any Subsidiary Guarantor under any recourse debt for borrowed money, (b) there is a payment default by us or any of its subsidiaries under any non-recourse debt of at least $75 million or (c) prior to a Security Interest Termination Event, an event of default occurs under the 2032 Private Placement Notes.

The Credit Facility was initially secured by a pledge of equity interests in the Subsidiary Guarantors. However, upon the achievement of certain security interest termination conditions, the pledges shall be released and the Credit Facility shall become unsecured (the “Security Interest Termination Event”). The Security Interest Termination Event occurs at the Borrower’s election, once the Borrower satisfies all of the following security interest termination conditions: (i) a fixed charge coverage ratio of no less than 1.50:1.00; (ii) an unsecured interest coverage ratio of not less than 2.00:1.00; (iii) a consolidated capitalization rate leverage ratio of not greater than 60%; and (iv) a secured debt ratio of no greater than 40%. Following the occurrence of the Security Interest Termination Event, certain terms and conditions of the Credit Facility are modified, including, but not limited to: (i) in certain circumstances, a reduction in the applicable rate under the Credit Facility, (ii) the modification or addition of certain financial covenants, (iii) the addition of a floor of at least $25 million for any cross-defaulted recourse debt of us, Borrower or any Subsidiary Guarantor, and (iv) in certain circumstances, a reduction in the annual unused fee for the Credit Facility. The outstanding 2032 Private Placement Notes previously issued by us remain pari passu with the Credit Facility.

The Credit Facility contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative, negative and financial covenants, borrowing conditions, and events of default. In particular, the financial covenants imposed on us include: a maximum leverage ratio, a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, a minimum tangible net worth, certain limits on both secured debt and secured recourse debt, certain payout ratios of dividends paid to adjusted funds from operations, limits on unhedged variable rate debt, and minimum liquidity. If an event of default occurs and continues, the Borrower is subject to certain actions by the administrative agent, including, without limitation, the acceleration of repayment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Facility.

During the three months ended March 31, 2025, we borrowed an additional $64.0 million in order to defease the KeyBank Florida CMBS Loan, acquire the Murfreesboro Property, and to fund other general corporate activities.

During the three months ended March 31, 2025, five properties were added to the borrowing base of the Credit Facility, and the one property was removed.

As of March 31, 2025,97 of our wholly-owned properties were encumbered by the Credit Facility, and we had borrowed approximately $679 million of the $700 million maximum potential current commitment of the Credit Facility. The availability of the Credit Facility is subject to certain calculations, including a debt service coverage ratio (“DSCR”) calculation which utilizes prevailing treasury rates within the calculation.

On April 4, 2025, we paid down approximately $472.1 million on the Credit Facility, using proceeds from the Underwritten Public Offering which closed on April 3, 2025.

On April 11, 2025, we reduced the total commitment available to us under the Credit Facility from $700 million to $600 million.

In early April 2025, we notified KeyBank and the holders of our 2032 Private Placement Notes that we had achieved the Security Interest Termination Conditions set forth in the credit agreement and the Note Purchase Agreement, as amended, respectively (collectively, the “Debt Agreements”). The Credit Facility and the 2032 Private Placement Notes were initially secured by a pledge of equity interests in the Subsidiary Guarantors. However, as a result of the foregoing notification, on April 17, 2025, KeyBank released the pledges of the Subsidiary Guarantors pursuant to the Debt Agreements, and each of the Credit Facility and the 2032 Private Placement Notes, respectively, became unsecured (the “Security Interest Termination Event”). As a result of the occurrence of the Security Interest Termination Event, certain terms and conditions of the Credit Facility and the 2032 Private Placement Notes took immediate effect, including, but not limited to: (i) in certain circumstances, a reduction in the applicable rate under the Credit Facility, (ii) the adjustment or addition of certain financial covenants, (iii) the addition of a floor of at least $25 million for any cross-defaulted recourse debt of the Company, Borrower or any Subsidiary Guarantor, and (iv) in certain circumstances, a reduction in the annual unused fee for the Credit Facility.

2027 NBC Loan

On March 7, 2024, we, through five of our wholly-owned Canadian subsidiaries (the “2027 NBC Loan Borrowers”), entered into a loan with National Bank of Canada (“NBC”) as administrative agent, National Bank Financial as lead arranger and sole bookrunner, and certain other lenders party thereto (the “2027 NBC Loan”). On such date, we drew the maximum aggregate borrowing of $75 million CAD pursuant to the 2027 NBC Loan. This loan is secured by the five properties owned by the 2027 NBC Loan Borrowers (the “Secured NBC Properties”).

Previously, four of the Secured NBC Properties were included in the borrowing base of the Credit Facility, and the other property was unencumbered. The net proceeds from the 2027 NBC Loan were used to pay down the Credit Facility by approximately $55.1 million USD, and accordingly, the respective four properties were released as collateral from the Credit Facility.

The 2027 NBC Loan has a maturity date of March 7, 2027, which may be extended for additional one-year periods in the discretion of the lenders. The 2027 NBC Loan carries a variable interest rate based on either the Canadian Overnight Repo Rate Average (“CORRA”) or the Canadian Prime Rate. As of March 31, 2025, borrowings under the 2027 NBC Loan were subject to interest at the CORRA rate, plus a CORRA adjustment of approximately 0.30%, plus a spread of 2.20%.

On March 12, 2024, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement based on CORRA with NBC whereby, inclusive of the swap we fixed the interest rate on the NBC loan at 6.42% for the initial three year term of the loan. The 2027 NBC Loan requires monthly amortizing principal and interest payments, which are based on a 25-year amortization schedule. The 2027 NBC Loan may be prepaid, in whole or in part, at any time upon prior written notice to the lenders, subject to interest rate swap breakage costs. SmartStop and the 2027 NBC Loan Borrowers provided an ordinary course environmental indemnity in favor of NBC and the lenders. SmartStop serves as a non-recourse guarantor, and each borrower provided a limited recourse guaranty up to the amount of the collateral pledged by it, under the 2027 NBC Loan.

2032 Private Placement Notes

On April 19, 2022, we as guarantor, and our Operating Partnership as issuer, entered into a note purchase agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”) which provides for the private placement of $150 million of 4.53% Senior Notes due April 19, 2032 (the “2032 Private Placement Notes”). The sale and purchase of the 2032 Private Placement Notes occurred in two closings, with the first of such closings having occurred on April 19, 2022 with $75 million aggregate principal amount of the 2032 Private Placement Notes having been issued on such date (the “First Closing”) and the second of such closings having occurred on May 25, 2022 with $75 million aggregate principal amount of the 2032 Private Placement Notes having been issued on such date (the “Second Closing”). Interest on each series of the 2032 Private Placement Notes is payable semiannually on the nineteenth day of April and October in each year.

Interest payable on the Notes was originally subject to a prospective 75 basis points increase, if, as of March 31, 2023, the ratio of total indebtedness to EBITDA (the “Total Leverage Ratio”) of the Company and its subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, was greater than 7.00 to 1.00 (a “Total Leverage Ratio Event”).

As of March 31, 2023, such Total Leverage Ratio Event occurred, and our 2032 Private Placement Notes began accruing interest at a rate of 5.28%. The interest accruing on the 2032 Private Placement Notes will continue to accrue at 5.28% until such time as the Total Leverage Ratio is less than or equal to 7.00 to 1.00 for two consecutive fiscal quarters, upon such achievement, the applicable fixed interest rate will revert to 4.53% and remain at that interest rate through maturity, regardless of our future Total Leverage Ratio.

We are permitted to prepay at any time all, or from time to time, any part of the Notes in amounts not less than 5% of the 2032 Private Placement Notes then outstanding at (i) 100% of the principal amount so prepaid and (ii) the make-whole amount (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement). The “Make-Whole Amount” is equal to the excess, if any, of the discounted value of the remaining scheduled payments with respect to the 2032 Private Placement Notes being prepaid over the amount of such 2032 Private Placement Notes. In addition, in connection with a change of control (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement), the Operating Partnership is required to offer to prepay the 2032 Private Placement Notes at 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, but without the Make Whole Amount or any other prepayment premium or penalty of any kind. The Company must also maintain a debt rating of the 2032 Private Placement Notes by a rating agency.

The Note Purchase Agreement contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative, negative and financial covenants, and events of default that were substantially similar to the Former Credit Facility (defined below). The 2032 Private Placement Notes were issued on a pari passu basis with the previously existing Credit Facility, and are pari passu with the Credit Facility. As such, the Company and Subsidiary Guarantors fully and unconditionally guarantee the Operating Partnership’s obligations under the 2032 Private Placement Notes. The 2032 Private Placement Notes were initially secured by a pledge of equity interests in the Subsidiary Guarantors on similar terms as the Former Credit Facility.

On April 26, 2024, we amended the Note Purchase Agreement dated April 19, 2022 (the “NPA Amendment”). The primary purpose of the NPA Amendment was to make certain conforming changes between the Note Purchase Agreement and our recently amended and restated revolving credit facility, the Credit Facility. In particular, the NPA Amendment conformed certain of the definitions related to the financial tests that we are required to maintain, as well as certain of the property pool covenants we are required to satisfy, in the Note Purchase Agreement during the term thereof to those in the Credit Facility.

Former Credit Facility

On March 17, 2021, we, through our Operating Partnership (the “Borrower”), entered into a credit facility with KeyBank, National Association, as administrative agent, KeyBanc Capital Markets, Inc., Wells Fargo Securities, Citibank, N.A., and BMO Capital Markets, Corp., as joint book runners and joint lead arrangers, and certain other lenders party thereto (the “Former Credit Facility”).

The initial aggregate amount of the Former Credit Facility was $500 million, which consisted of a $250 million revolving credit facility (the “Credit Facility Revolver”) and a $250 million term loan (the “Former Credit Facility Term Loan”).

On October 7, 2021, the Borrower and lenders who were party to the Former Credit Facility amended the Former Credit Facility to increase the commitment on the Former Credit Facility by $200 million. In connection with the increased commitment, additional lenders were added to the Former Credit Facility. As a result of this amendment, the aggregate commitment on the Former Credit Facility was $700 million.

The Former Credit Facility was repaid in full on February 22, 2024 in connection with the establishment of the Credit Facility.

The following table presents the future principal payments required on outstanding debt as of March 31, 2025 (in thousands):

2025$177,245
202693,266
2027771,805
202873,852
2029104,000
2030 and thereafter190,500
Total payments1,410,668
Discount on secured debt(1,365)
Debt issuance costs, net(3,040)
Total$1,406,263

In connection with the net proceeds we received from the Underwritten Public Offering, on April 4, 2025, we fully repaid the balance of the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility of $175.0 million, as well as accrued and unpaid interest. Similarly, on such date, we also paid down approximately $472.1 million on the Credit Facility.

The following table presents the future principal payments required on outstanding debt as of April 4, 2025 (in thousands):

2025$2,087
202693,266
2027299,749
202873,852
2029104,000
2030 and thereafter190,500
Total payments$763,454

Note 6. Preferred Equity

Series A Convertible Preferred Stock

On October 29, 2019 (the “Commitment Date”), we entered into a preferred stock purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Extra Space Storage LP (the “Investor”), a subsidiary of Extra Space Storage Inc. (NYSE: EXR), pursuant to which the Investor committed to purchase up to $200 million in preferred shares (the aggregate shares to be purchased, the “Preferred Shares”) of our new Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Convertible Preferred Stock”), in one or more closings (each, a “Closing,” and collectively, the “Closings”). The initial closing (the “Initial Closing”) in the amount of $150 million occurred on the Commitment Date, and the second and final closing in the amount of $50 million occurred on October 26, 2020. We incurred approximately $3.6 million in issuance costs related to the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, which were recorded as a reduction to Series A Convertible Preferred stock on our consolidated balance sheets.

The shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock ranked senior to all other shares of our capital stock, including our common stock, with respect to rights to receive dividends and to participate in distributions or payments upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company. Dividends payable on each share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock were initially equal to a rate of 6.25% per annum. The dividend rate increased by an additional 0.75% per annum to an aggregate of 7.0% per annum on October 29, 2024. The dividends were payable in arrears for the prior calendar quarter on or before the 15 th day of March, June, September and December of each year.

Upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, the holders of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock were entitled to receive a payment equal to the greater of (i) aggregate purchase price of all outstanding Preferred Shares, plus any accrued and unpaid dividends (the “Liquidation Amount”) and (ii) the amount that would have been payable had the Preferred Shares been converted into common stock pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement immediately prior to such liquidation.

Subject to certain additional redemption rights, as described herein, we had the right to redeem the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock for cash. The amount of such redemption will be equal to the Liquidation Amount. Upon the listing of our common stock on a national securities exchange (the “Listing”), we had the right to redeem any or all outstanding Series A Convertible Preferred Stock at an amount equal to the greater of (i) the amount that would have been payable had such Preferred Shares been converted into common stock pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement immediately prior to the Listing, and then all of such Preferred Shares were sold in the Listing, or (ii) the Liquidation Amount. In addition, subject to certain cure provisions, if we failed to maintain our status as a real estate investment trust, the holders of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock had the right to require us to repurchase the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock at an amount equal to the Liquidation Amount withno Premium Amount.

Subject to our redemption rights in the event of a listing or change of control described above, the holders of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock had the right to convert any or all of the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock held by such holders into common stock at a rate per share equal to the quotient obtained by dividing the Liquidation Amount by the conversion price. The conversion price was $42.64, as may be adjusted in connection with stock splits, stock dividends and other similar transactions.

As of March 31, 2025, there were 200,000 Preferred Shares outstanding with an aggregate liquidation preference of approximately $203.5 million, which consisted of $150 million from the Initial Closing, $50 million from a closing on October 26, 2020 and approximately $3.5 million of accumulated and unpaid distributions.

As of December 31, 2024, there were 200,000 Preferred Shares outstanding with an aggregate liquidation preference of approximately $203.4 million, which consisted of $150 million from the Initial Closing, $50 million from a closing on October 26, 2020 and approximately $3.4 million of accumulated and unpaid distributions.

In connection with the Underwritten Public Offering, discussed in Note 1, all issued and outstanding shares of our Series A Convertible Preferred Stock were redeemed on April 4, 2025, using net proceeds from our Underwritten Public Offering which closed on April 3, 2025. We paid the liquidation amount of approximately $203.6 million, which included approximately $3.6 million of accumulated and unpaid distributions.

Note 7. Derivative Instruments

Interest Rate Derivatives

Our objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to our earnings (losses) and to manage our exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish this objective, we have used interest rate swaps and caps as part of our interest rate risk management strategy.

For interest rate derivatives designated and qualified as a hedge for GAAP purposes, the change in the fair value of the effective portion of the derivative is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) and is subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. Amounts reported in AOCI related to such derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on our variable rate debt. In addition, we classify cash flows from qualifying cash flow hedging relationships in the same category as the cash flows from the hedged items in our consolidated statements of cash flows. We do not use interest rate derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest rate derivatives not designated as hedges for GAAP are not speculative and are used to manage our exposure to interest rate movements and other identified risks but we have elected not to apply hedge accounting. Changes in the fair value of interest rate derivatives not designated in hedging relationships are recorded in other income (expense) within our consolidated statements of operations.

In connection with the 2027 NBC Loan borrowing, on March 12, 2024, we entered into a CORRA Swap with NBC with an initial notional amount of CAD $75,000,000 at a rate of 3.926% for the initial duration of the 2027 NBC Loan, maturing on March 7, 2027. The amortization of this swap corresponds with the amortizing principal payments on the related loan.

On May 1, 2024, to hedge our exposure to potentially rising interest rates, we entered into three SOFR interest rate caps for a total of approximately $8.2 million, which hedge approximately $400 million of notional exposure. We initially deferred payment for these SOFR interest rate caps, and recorded these interest rate caps net of the remaining amount of such deferred payment liability on our balance sheet. On April 8, 2025, in connection with our principal paydown on the Credit Facility, we terminated two of these three SOFR caps, and paid approximately $3.5 million.

On December 30, 2024, in relation to the outstanding balance on our 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility, we entered into a SOFR interest rate cap, which capped SOFR at 1.25% until maturity on July 1, 2025 for a notional amount of $100.2 million. The total cost for this interest rate cap was approximately $1.5 million, which was due and paid on January 2, 2025. In connection with our full repayment of the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility, we terminated this cap on April 7, 2025, receiving a termination payment of approximately $0.7 million.

On March 4, 2025, in relation to the outstanding balance on our 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility, we entered into a SOFR interest rate cap, which capped SOFR at 1.25% until maturity on September 1, 2025 for a notional amount of $74.8 million. The total cost for this interest rate cap was approximately $1.2 million, which was due and paid on March 6, 2025. In connection with our full repayment of the 2025 KeyBank Acquisition Facility, we terminated this cap on April 7, 2025, receiving a termination payment of approximately $0.9 million.

Foreign Currency Hedges

Our objectives in using foreign currency derivatives are to add stability to potential fluctuations in exchange rates between foreign currencies and the U.S. dollar and to manage our exposure to exchange rate movements. To accomplish this objective, we have used foreign currency forwards and foreign currency options as part of our exchange rate risk management strategy. A foreign currency forward contract is a commitment to deliver a certain amount of currency at a certain price on a specific date in the future. By entering into the forward contract and holding it to maturity, we are locked into a future currency exchange rate in an amount equal to and for the term of the forward contract. A foreign currency option contract is a commitment by the seller of the option to deliver, solely at the option of the buyer, a certain amount of currency at a certain price on a specific date.

For derivatives designated as net investment hedges for GAAP purposes, the changes in the fair value of the derivatives are reported in AOCI. Amounts are reclassified out of AOCI into earnings when the hedged net investment is either sold or substantially liquidated. The change in the value of the designated portion of our settled and unsettled foreign currency hedges is recorded net in foreign currency hedge contract gain (loss) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) in the related period.

The change in the value of the portion of our settled and unsettled foreign currency forwards that are not designated for hedge accounting for GAAP is recorded in other income (expense) within our consolidated statements of operations and represented a gain of approximately $0.3 million and $1.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

On April 12, 2024 we entered into a foreign currency net investment hedge with a notional amount of $136.5 million CAD at a strike rate of 1.3648, which matured on April 11, 2025.

On December 30, 2024, in an effort to hedge the cash generated at our Canadian properties, we entered into four new foreign currency forwards; (i) one such hedge had a notional amount of $2.8 million CAD at a strike rate of 1.4412, and matured on February 27, 2025, (ii) the second hedge has a notional amount of $3.3 million CAD at a strike rate of 1.4363, maturing on May 27, 2025, (iii) the third hedge has a notional amount of $3.5 million CAD at a strike rate of 1.4312, maturing on August 27, 2025, (iv) the fourth hedge has a notional amount of $3.3 million CAD at a strike rate of 1.4261, maturing on November 28, 2025.

On February 28, 2025, we entered into a similar hedge with a notional amount of $3.2 million CAD at a strike rate of 1.4217, maturing on February 27, 2026.

The following table summarizes the terms of our derivative financial instruments as of March 31, 2025 (dollars in thousands):

NotionalAmountStrikeEffective Date or Date AssumedMaturity Date
Interest Rate Derivatives:
SOFR Cap (1)$100,0001.50%May 1, 2024May 1, 2025
SOFR Cap (1) (6)$100,0002.00%July 1, 2024July 1, 2025
SOFR Cap (4)$100,2001.25%December 30, 2024July 1, 2025
SOFR Cap(5)$74,8001.25%March 1, 2025September 1, 2025
SOFR Cap$100,0004.75%December 1, 2022December 1, 2025
SOFR Cap (2) (7)$200,0005.50%December 2, 2024December 1, 2026
CORRA Swap (3)$73,5533.93%March 7, 2024March 7, 2027
Foreign Currency Forwards:
CAD Forward (3)$3,2001.4217February 28, 2025February 26, 2026
CAD Forward (3) (8)$136,4761.3648April 12, 2024April 11, 2025
CAD Forward (3)$3,3001.4363December 30, 2024May 27, 2025
CAD Forward (3)$3,5001.4312December 30, 2024August 27, 2025
CAD Forward (3)$3,3001.4261December 30, 2024November 28, 2025

(1)

We deferred payment on this SOFR cap until its maturity.

(2)

We deferred payment on this SOFR cap until January 2, 2025, at which point, monthly payments became due on the first of each month until the date of its maturity.

(3)

Notional amounts shown are denominated in CAD.

(4)

On April 7, 2025, we terminated this SOFR cap, receiving approximately $0.7 million.

(5)

On April 7, 2025, we terminated this SOFR cap, receiving approximately $0.9 million.

(6)

On April 8, 2025, we terminated this SOFR cap, as such, we owed and paid approximately $2.7 million.

(7)

On April 8, 2025, we terminated this SOFR cap, as such, we owed and paid approximately $0.8 million.

(8)

On April 11, 2025, we settled this net investment hedge FX Forward and received approximately $2.6 million USD. We simultaneously entered into a new net investment hedge FX Forward for the same notional amount of $136,476,000 CAD, maturing on July 11, 2025.

The following table summarizes the terms of our derivative financial instruments as of December 31, 2024 (dollars in thousands):

NotionalAmountStrikeEffective Date or Date AssumedMaturity Date
Interest Rate Derivatives:
SOFR Cap (1)$100,0001.50%May 1, 2024May 1, 2025
SOFR Cap (1)$100,0002.00%July 1, 2024July 1, 2025
SOFR Cap$100,2001.25%December 30, 2024July 1, 2025
SOFR Cap$100,0004.75%December 1, 2022December 1, 2025
SOFR Cap (2)$200,0005.50%December 2, 2024December 1, 2026
CORRA Swap (3)$73,9183.93%March 7, 2024March 7, 2027
Foreign Currency Forwards:
CAD Forward (3)$2,8001.4412December 30, 2024February 27, 2025
CAD Forward (3)$136,7461.3648April 12, 2024April 11, 2025
CAD Forward (3)$3,3001.4363December 30, 2024May 27, 2025
CAD Forward (3)$3,5001.4312December 30, 2024August 27, 2025
CAD Forward (3)$3,3001.4261December 30, 2024November 28, 2025

(1)

We initially deferred payment on this SOFR cap until its maturity.

(2)

We deferred payment on this SOFR cap until January 2, 2025, at which point, monthly payments became due on the first of each month until the date of its maturity.

(3)

Notional amounts shown are denominated in CAD.

The following table presents a gross presentation of the fair value of our derivative financial instruments as well as their classification on our consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 (in thousands):

Asset/Liability Derivatives
Fair Value
Balance Sheet LocationMarch 31,2025December 31,2024
Interest Rate Derivatives
Other assets$2,158$1,523
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (1)$8,225$6,591
Foreign Currency Hedges
Other assets$5,102$4,667
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$18$39

(1) Included herein is approximately $8.1 million and $8.2 million in deferred payments on certain of our SOFR interest rate caps as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively, as well as the fair value of the related SOFR interest rate caps, along with the value of our CORRA swap.

The following tables present the effect of our derivative financial instruments on our consolidated statements of operations for the periods presented (in thousands):

Gain (loss) recognized in OCI for the three monthsended March 31, · Location of amounts reclassified from OCI into income · Gain (loss) reclassified fromOCI for the three months ended March 31,
Type · 2025 · 2024 · 2025 · 2024
Interest Rate Swaps$(338)$(60)Interest expense$(106)$41
Interest Rate Caps(24)468Interest expense(103)874
Foreign Currency Forwards1091,356N/A-$—
$(253)$1,764$(209)$915

Based on the forward rates in effect as of March 31, 2025, we estimate that approximately $1.0 million related to

our qualifying cash flow hedges will be reclassified to increase interest expense during the next 12 months.

Note 8. Income Taxes

As a REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on taxable income that we distribute to our stockholders. However, certain of our consolidated subsidiaries are taxable REIT subsidiaries, which are subject to federal, state and foreign income taxes. We have filed an election to treat our primary TRS as a taxable REIT subsidiary effective January 1, 2014. In general, our TRS performs additional services for our customers and provides the advisory and property management services to the Managed REITs and otherwise generally engages in non-real estate related business. The TRS is subject to corporate U.S. federal and state income tax. Additionally, we own and operate a number of self storage properties located throughout Canada, the income of which is generally subject to income taxes under the laws of Canada.

The following is a summary of our income tax expense (benefit) for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands):

Federal · State · Canadian · Total
Current$-$17$326$343
Deferred691193263
Total$69$18$519$606
Federal · State · Canadian · Total
Current$-$8$116$124
Deferred683147218
Total$68$11$263$342

The major sources of temporary differences that give rise to the deferred tax effects are shown below (in thousands):

March 31, 2025December 31,2024
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangible contract assets$(3)$(6)
Canadian real estate(9,279)(9,163)
Total deferred tax liability(9,282)(9,169)
Deferred tax assets:
Other1,8161,687
Canadian real estate and non-capital losses7,4737,729
Total deferred tax assets9,2899,416
Valuation allowance(1,704)(1,891)
Net deferred tax liabilities$(1,697)$(1,644)

The Canadian non-capital losses expire between 2032 and 2044. As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company had Canadian non-capital loss carry forwards of approximately $19.2 million and $20.8 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, we had a valuation allowance of approximately $1.7 million and $1.9 million, respectively, related to non-capital loss carry-forwards, non deductible interest expense carry forwards, and basis differences at certain of our Canadian properties.

As of March 31, 2025, we had no interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions. In the United States, the tax years 2021-2023 remain open to examination, and in Canada, the tax years 2020-2023 remain open to examination, with possible extensions under certain conditions that would allow the years 2017-2023 to be open to examination.

Note 9. Segment Disclosures

We operate intwo reportable business segments: (i) self storage operations and (ii) our Managed REIT Platform business. Our self storage operations consist of our wholly-owned self storage facilities, primarily consisting of month-to month rental revenue and related ancillary revenue that these self storage facilities produce. Our Managed REIT Platform business consists of the various management services we perform for the Managed REITs, including the services performed related to our property management, asset management, and construction and development management contracts. The reportable segments offer different products and services to different customers and are therefore managed separately.

The chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) is our Chief Executive Officer. Our CODM and other management regularly evaluate performance based upon segment operating income (“SOI”). For our self storage operations, SOI is defined as leasing and related revenues, less property level operating expenses. SOI for the Company’s Managed REIT Platform business represents Managed REIT Platform revenues less Managed REIT Platform expenses. Our CODM uses SOI when making decisions about allocating capital and personnel to the various segments. Property operating expenses represents a significant segment expense for purposes of evaluating performance of our self storage operations. Managed REIT Platform expense represents a significant segment expense for purposes of evaluating performance of the Company's Managed REIT Platform. Such income statement amounts are reflected below in the calculation of SOI. On a quarterly basis, our CODM considers budget-to-actual and period-to-period variances when evaluating company and segment performance in addition to other interim reviews.

The following tables summarize information for the reportable segments for the periods presented (in thousands):

Managed REIT · Corporate
Self StoragePlatformand OtherTotal
Revenues:
Self storage rental revenue$56,586$—$—$56,586
Ancillary operating revenue2,607——2,607
Managed REIT Platform revenue—4,113—4,113
Reimbursable costs from Managed REITs—2,143—2,143
Total revenues59,1936,256—65,449
Operating expenses:
Property operating expenses
Property taxes6,468——6,468
Payroll4,707——4,707
Advertising1,477——1,477
Repairs & Maintenance1,474——1,474
Utilities1,506——1,506
Property Insurance1,633——1,633
Administrative and professional2,822——2,822
Total property operating expenses20,087——20,087
Managed REIT Platform expense—1,234—1,234
Reimbursable costs from Managed REITs—2,143—2,143
Segment operating income39,1062,879—41,985
Other operating expenses:
General and administrative——7,8507,850
Depreciation14,831—26315,094
Intangible amortization expense1,599——1,599
Acquisition expenses203——203
Total other operating expenses16,633—8,11324,746
Income (loss) from operations22,4732,879(8,113)17,239
Other income (expense):
Equity in earnings (losses) from investments in JV Properties——(242)(242)
Equity in earnings (losses) from investments in Managed REITs—(215)—(215)
Other, net169—285454
Interest income115610—725
Interest expense(21,982)—(40)(22,022)
Loss on debt extinguishment(789)——(789)
Income tax (expense) benefit(316)(68)(222)(606)
Net income (loss)$(330)$3,206$(8,332)$(5,456)
Managed REIT · Corporate
Self StoragePlatformand OtherTotal
Revenues:
Self storage rental revenue$50,469$—$—$50,469
Ancillary operating revenue2,193——2,193
Managed REIT Platform revenue—2,734—2,734
Reimbursable costs from Managed REITs—1,646—1,646
Total revenues52,6624,380—57,042
Operating expenses:
Property operating expenses
Property taxes5,232——5,232
Payroll4,256——4,256
Advertising1,358——1,358
Repairs & Maintenance1,426——1,426
Utilities1,278——1,278
Property Insurance1,277——1,277
Administrative and professional2,563——2,563
Total property operating expenses17,390——17,390
Managed REIT Platform expense—852—852
Reimbursable costs from Managed REITs—1,646—1,646
Segment operating income35,2721,882—37,154
Other operating expenses:
General and administrative——7,4267,426
Depreciation13,354—23013,584
Intangible amortization expense2449—73
Acquisition expenses71——71
Total other operating expenses13,449497,65621,154
Income (loss) from operations21,8231,833(7,656)16,000
Other income (expense):
Equity in earnings (losses) from investments in JV Properties——(329)(329)
Equity in earnings (losses) from investments in Managed REITs—(452)—(452)
Other, net107—(283)(176)
Interest income234450—684
Interest expense(16,512)—(42)(16,554)
Loss on debt extinguishment(471)——(471)
Income tax (expense) benefit(268)(64)(10)(342)
Net income (loss)$4,913$1,767$(8,320)$(1,640)

The following table summarizes our total assets by segment (in thousands):

SegmentsMarch 31, 2025December 31, 2024
Self Storage(1)$1,984,374$1,915,303
Managed REIT Platform(2)63,35363,700
Corporate and Other66,67463,064
Total assets(3)$2,114,401$2,042,067

(1) Included in the assets of the Self Storage segment as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 was approximately $52.2 million of goodwill. Additionally, as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, there wereno accumulated impairment charges to goodwill within the Self Storage segment.

(2) Included in the assets of the Managed REIT Platform segment as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 was approximately $1.4 million of goodwill. Such goodwill is net of accumulated impairment charges in the Managed REIT Platform segment of approximately $24.7 million, which relates to the impairment charge recorded during the quarter ended March 31, 2020.

(3) Other than our investments in and advances to Managed REITs and our investments in JV Properties, substantially all of our investments in real estate facilities and intangible assets as well as our capital expenditures for the three months and year ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively, were associated with our self storage platform. Please see Note 3 – Real Estate of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional detail.

As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, approximately $154 million, and $155 million, respectively, of our assets in the self storage segment related to our operations in Canada. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, and 2024, approximately $5.4 million, and $5.4 million, respectively, of our revenues in the self storage segment related to our operations in Canada. Substantially all of our operations related to the management fees we generate through our management contracts with the Managed REITs are performed in the U.S.; accordingly substantially all of our assets and revenues related to our Managed REIT segment are based in the U.S. as well.

As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, approximately $33.5 million and $32.8 million, respectively, of our assets in the Corporate and Other segment in the table above relate to our JV Properties which operate in Canada. For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, approximately $0.2 million and $0.3 million of losses, respectively, relate to these JV Properties' operations in Canada.

Note 10. Related Party Transactions

Self Administration Transaction

On June 28, 2019, we, our Operating Partnership and our TRS entered into a series of transactions, agreements, and amendments to our existing agreements and arrangements with our then-sponsor, SAM, and SmartStop OP Holdings, LLC (“SS OP Holdings”), a subsidiary of SAM, pursuant to which, effective June 28, 2019, we acquired the self storage advisory, asset management and property management businesses and certain joint venture interests of SAM, along with certain other assets of SAM (collectively, the “Self Administration Transaction”).

As a result of the Self Administration Transaction, we became self-managed and succeeded to the advisory, asset management and property management businesses and certain joint ventures previously in place for us, and we acquired the internal capability to originate, structure and manage additional future self storage investment products which would be sponsored by SmartStop REIT Advisors, LLC (“SRA”), our indirect subsidiary. The transfer agent agreement described below was not impacted by the Self Administration Transaction.

Our Chief Executive Officer, who is also the Chairman of our board of directors, holds ownership interests in and is an officer of SAM, and other affiliated entities. Our Chief Executive Officer also previously indirectly held an ownership interest in our former dealer manager. Previously, certain of our executive officers and another member of our board of directors held ownership interests in and/or were officers of SAM, and other affiliated entities. Accordingly, any agreements or transactions we have entered into with such entities may present a conflict of interest. None of SAM and its affiliates or our directors or executive officers receive any compensation, fees or reimbursements from our Managed REITs, other than with respect to fees and reimbursements in accordance with the Administrative Services Agreement and the transfer agent agreement, or as otherwise described in this section.

Former Transfer Agent Agreement

SAM owns 100% of the membership interests of Strategic Transfer Agent Services, LLC, our former transfer agent (“Former Transfer Agent”), which is a registered transfer agent with the SEC. Pursuant to our transfer agent agreement, our Former Transfer Agent provided transfer agent and registrar services to us. These services were substantially similar to what a third party transfer agent would provide in the ordinary course of performing its functions as a transfer agent, including, but not limited to: providing customer service to our stockholders, processing the distributions and any servicing fees with respect to our shares and issuing regular reports to our stockholder.

Fees paid to our Former Transfer Agent included a fixed quarterly fee, one-time account setup fees, monthly open account fees and fees for investor inquiries. In addition, we reimbursed our Former Transfer Agent for all reasonable expenses or other charges incurred by it in connection with the provision of its services to us, and we paid our Former Transfer Agent fees for any additional services that we requested from time to time, in accordance with its rates then in effect.

Effective as of April 29, 2024, we transitioned to a new transfer agent, SS&C GIDS, Inc. In connection with such transfer, we simultaneously terminated the transfer agent agreement with Strategic Transfer Agent Services, LLC. In lieu of a termination fee and in recognition of the additional cost and expenses incurred by our Former Transfer Agent in connection with the transition, we paid a transition fee of $150,000 to Strategic Transfer Agent Services, LLC in May 2024.

Pursuant to the terms of the agreements described above, the following table summarizes such related party costs incurred and paid by us for the year ended December 31, 2024 and the three months ended March 31, 2025, as well as any related amounts payable as of December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2025 (in thousands):

Year Ended December 31, 2024Three Months Ended March 31, 2025
IncurredPaidPayableIncurredPaidPayable
Expensed
Transfer Agent fees$661$715$21$—$10$11
Other
Other——341——341
Total$661$715$362$—$10$352

Advisory Agreement Fees

Our indirect subsidiaries, the SST VI Advisor, SST X Advisor, and the SSGT III Advisor are or were entitled to receive various fees and expense reimbursements under the terms of the SST VI, SST X, and SSGT III advisory agreements.

SST VI Advisory Agreement

The SST VI Advisor provides acquisition and advisory services to SST VI pursuant to an advisory agreement (the “SST VI Advisory Agreement”). In connection with the SST VI private placement offering, SST VI was required to reimburse the SST VI Advisor for organization and offering costs from the SST VI private offering pursuant to the SST VI private offering advisory agreement.

Pursuant to the SST VI Advisory Agreement, the SST VI Advisor receives acquisition fees equal to 1.00% of the contract purchase price of each property SST VI acquires plus reimbursement of any acquisition expenses that SST VI Advisor incurs. The SST VI Advisor also receives a monthly asset management fee equal to 0.0625%, which isone-twelfth of 0.75%, of SST VI’s aggregate asset value, as defined. The SST VI Advisor is also potentially entitled to receive a disposition fee if a substantial amount of services are performed by the SST VI Advisor, as determined by a majority of SST VI’s independent directors, equal to the lesser of 1% of the contract sales price for any properties sold or 50% of the competitive real estate commission; however in no event shall the total real estate commissions paid exceed 6% of the contract sales price.

A subsidiary of our Operating Partnership may also be potentially entitled to a subordinated distribution through its ownership of a special limited partnership in SST VI OP if SST VI (1) lists its shares of common stock on a national exchange, (2) terminates the SST VI Advisory Agreement, (3) liquidates its portfolio, or (4) merges with another entity or enters into an Extraordinary Transaction, as defined in SST VI OP's limited partnership agreement.

The SST VI Advisory Agreement provides for reimbursement of the SST VI Advisor’s direct and indirect costs of providing administrative and management services to SST VI. Beginning four fiscal quarters after commencement of SST VI's public offering, which was declared effective March 17, 2022, the SST VI Advisor was required to pay or reimburse SST VI the amount by which SST VI’s aggregate annual operating expenses, as defined, exceed the greater of 2% of SST VI’s average invested assets or 25% of SST VI’s net income, as defined, unless a majority of SST VI’s independent directors determine that such excess expenses were justified based on unusual and non-recurring factors.

Pacific Oak Holding Group, LLC, is a 17.5% non-voting member of the SST VI Advisor. Pacific Oak Capital Markets, LLC (a subsidiary of Pacific Oak Holding Group, LLC) is SST VI's dealer manager, and as such, is responsible for the marketing of SST VI shares being offered pursuant to SST VI's private offering, and subsequent to March 17, 2022, SST VI's public offering.

Separately, we through one of our subsidiaries agreed to pay SST VI’s dealer manager an amount equal to 1.5% of the gross offering proceeds from the sale of Class Z shares sold in its public offering. For the three months ended March 31, 2025, we had incurred approximately $6,000, to SST VI's dealer manager associated with the Class Z shares sold in its public offering.

SSGT III Advisory Agreement

The SSGT III Advisor provides acquisition and advisory services to SSGT III pursuant to an advisory agreement (the “SSGT III Advisory Agreement”). In connection with the SSGT III private placement offering, which became effective on May 18, 2022, SSGT III is required to reimburse the SSGT III Advisor for organization and offering costs from the SSGT III private offering pursuant to the SSGT III Advisory Agreement.

Pursuant to the SSGT III Advisory Agreement, the SSGT III Advisor will receive acquisition fees equal to 1.00% of the contract purchase price of each property SSGT III acquires plus reimbursement of acquisition expenses that SSGT III Advisor incurs, provided, however, that no reimbursement shall be made for costs of personnel to the extent that such personnel perform services in transactions for which the Advisor receives the Acquisition Fee. The SSGT III Advisor also receives a monthly asset management fee equal to 0.0625%, which isone-twelfth of 0.75%, of SSGT III’s aggregate asset value, as defined. The SSGT III Advisor is also entitled to receive a disposition fee equal to 1.5% of the contract sale price for any properties sold inclusive of any real estate commissions paid to third party real estate brokers. Through a separate agreement, Pacific Oak Holding Group, LLC, the parent company of Pacific Oak Capital Markets, LLC, the dealer manager for the SSGT III private offering, is entitled to receive 17.5% of the acquisition fees, asset management fees and disposition fees SSGT III Advisor earns pursuant to the SSGT III Advisory Agreement.

A subsidiary of our Operating Partnership may also be potentially entitled to various subordinated distributions through its ownership of a special limited partnership in SSGT III’s operating partnership agreement if SSGT III (1) lists its shares of common stock on a national exchange, (2) terminates the SSGT III Advisory Agreement, (3) liquidates its portfolio, or (4) merges with another entity or enters into an Extraordinary Transaction, as defined in the SSGT III operating partnership agreement.

SST X Advisory Agreement

The SST X Advisor provides acquisition and advisory services to SST X pursuant to an advisory agreement dated January 31, 2025 (the “SST X Advisory Agreement”). In connection with the SST X private placement offering, which commenced on January 31, 2025, SST X Advisor may pay for certain organization and offering expenses (other than selling commissions and shareholder servicing fees) and other operating expenses incurred.

Pursuant to the SST X Advisory Agreement, the SST X Advisor will not receive acquisition fees, but is entitled to reimbursement of acquisition expenses that the SST X Advisor incurs. The SST X Advisor is not entitled to receive any disposition fees. The SST X Advisor is entitled to a management fee equal to (i)1.00% of NAV for the Class F-T Common Shares, Class F-D Common Shares, and Class F-I Common Shares, and (ii)1.25% of NAV for the Class T Common Shares, Class D Common Shares, and Class I Common Shares, in each case, per annum and payable monthly, before giving effect to any accruals by SST X for the management fee, any applicable servicing fees, the performance participation allocation, or any distributions. SST X is currently only offering the Class F-T Common Shares, Class F-D Common Shares and Class F-I Common Shares. The management fee may be paid, at the SST X Advisor’s election, in cash or cash equivalent aggregate NAV amounts of Class E Common Shares or Class E OP Units in Strategic Storage Operating Partnership X, L.P. (the “SST X Operating Partnership” or “SST X OP”). Through a separate agreement, Pacific Oak Holding Group, LLC, the parent company of Pacific Oak Capital Markets, LLC, the dealer manager for the SST X private offering, is entitled to receive 17.5% of the asset management fees that SST X Advisor earns pursuant to the SST X Advisory Agreement.

In addition, a subsidiary of our Operating Partnership holds a special performance participation interest in the SST X Operating Partnership that entitles it to receive an allocation from the SST X Operating Partnership equal to 10.0%of the

Total Return with respect to Class F-T Common Units, Class F-D Units and Class F-I Common Units(12.5% with respect to Class T Units, Class D Units and Class I Units), subject to a 5% Hurdle Amount and a High Water Mark with respect to such class of units, with a Catch-Up (each term as defined in the limited partnership agreement of the SST X Operating Partnership). Such allocation and the related distribution are made annually.

As of March 31, 2025, SST X had sold approximately $2.0 million of its Class F-I Common Shares, but did not yet own any properties, and we had a receivable of approximately $0.9 million from SST X related to the costs described above.

Managed REIT Property Management Agreements

Our indirect subsidiaries, SS Growth Property Management III, LLC, Strategic Storage Property Management VI, LLC, and Strategic Storage Property Management X, LLC, (collectively the “Managed REITs Property Managers”), are or were entitled to receive fees for their services in managing the properties wholly or partially owned by the Managed REITs pursuant to property management agreements entered into between the owner of the property and the applicable Managed REIT’s Property Manager.

The Managed REITs’ Property Managers receive a property management fee equal to 6% of the gross revenues from the properties, generally subject to a monthly minimum of $3,000 per property, plus reimbursement of the costs of managing the properties, and a one-time fee of $3,750 for each property acquired that would be managed by the Managed REITs’ Property Managers. Reimbursable costs and expenses include wages and salaries and other expenses of employees engaged in operating, managing and maintaining such properties. Pursuant to the property management agreements, we through our Operating Partnership employ the on-site staff for the Managed REITs’ properties.

The SST VI, SSGT III, and SST X property managers are or will be entitled to a construction management fee equal to 5% of the cost of a related construction or capital improvement work project in excess of $10,000.

Summary of Fees and Revenue Related to the Managed REITs

Pursuant to the terms of the various agreements described above for the Managed REITs, the following summarizes the related party fees for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 (in thousands):

Three Months Ended
March 31,
Managed REIT Platform Revenues20252024
Asset Management Fees:
SST VI1,0351,060
SSGT III407337
1,4421,397
Property Management Fees:
SST VI452393
SSGT III266123
JV Properties245217
963733
Tenant Protection Program Fees:
SST VI321273
SSGT III18682
JV Properties10188
608443
Acquisition Fees:
SST VI—34
SSGT III1,187—
1,18734
Other Managed REIT Fees(1)158308
Managed REIT Platform Fees4,3582,915
Sponsor funding reduction (2)(245)(181)
Total Managed REIT Platform Revenues$4,113$2,734

(1)

Such revenue primarily includes other property management related fees, construction management fees, development fees, and other miscellaneous revenues.

(2)

Pursuant to the Sponsor Funding Agreement, SmartStop funds certain costs of SST VI's share sales, and in return receives Series C Units in SST VI's OP. The excess of the funding over the value of the Series C Units received is accounted for as a reduction of Managed REIT Platform revenues from SST VI over the remaining estimated term of the management contracts with SST VI.

We offer tenant insurance or tenant protection programs to customers at our Managed REITs' properties pursuant to which we, as the property manager and majority owner of the Tenant Protection Program joint ventures, are entitled to substantially all of the net revenue attributable to the sale of such tenant programs.

In order to protect our interest in receiving these revenues in light of the fact that the Managed REITs control the properties, we and the Managed REITs transferred our respective rights in such arrangements to a joint venture entity owned 99.9% by us through a TRS subsidiary and 0.1% by the Managed REIT. Under the terms of the operating agreements of the joint venture entities, we receive 99.9% of the net revenues generated from such Tenant Protection Programs and the Managed REIT receives the other 0.1% of such net revenues.

Reimbursable costs from Managed REITs includes reimbursement of SST VI and SSGT III's Advisors’ certain direct and indirect costs of providing administrative and management services to the Managed REITs. Additionally, reimbursable costs includes reimbursement pursuant to the property management agreements for reimbursement of certain costs of managing the Managed REITs’ properties, including wages and salaries and other expenses of employees engaged in operating, managing and maintaining such properties.

As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 we had receivables due from the Managed REITs totaling approximately $24.7 million and $16.7 million, respectively. Such amounts are included in investments in and advances to the Managed REITs line-item in our consolidated balance sheets. Such amounts included unpaid amounts relative to the above table, in addition to other direct routine reimbursable expenditures of the Managed REITs that we directly funded.

Investments in and advances to SST VI OP

On March 10, 2021, SmartStop OP made an investment of $5.0 million in SST VI OP, in exchange for common units of limited partnership interest in SST VI OP. Additionally, a subsidiary of SmartStop OP owns a special limited partnership interest (the “SST VI SLP”) in SST VI OP.

For the three months ended March 31, 2025 we recorded a loss related to our equity interest in SST VI OP of approximately $0.1 million, and received distributions in the amount of approximately $0.1 million.

For the three months ended March 31, 2024 we recorded a loss related to our equity interest in SST VI OP of approximately $0.3 million, and received distributions in the amount of approximately $0.1 million.

Sponsor Funding Agreement

On November 1, 2023, SRA, a subsidiary of our Operating Partnership, entered into a Sponsor Funding Agreement with SST VI and SST VI OP, in connection with certain changes to the public offering of SST VI.

Pursuant to the Sponsor Funding Agreement, SRA, as sponsor of the SST VI offering, has agreed to fund the payment of (i) the upfront 3% sales commission for the sale of Class Y shares sold in the SST VI offering, (ii) the upfront 3% dealer manager fee for the Class Y shares sold in the SST VI offering, and (iii) the estimated 1% organization and offering expenses for the sale of Class Y shares and Class Z shares sold in the SST VI offering. SRA also agreed to reimburse SST VI in cash to cover the dilution from certain one-time stock dividends which were issued by SST VI to existing stockholders in connection with the sponsor funding changes to the SST VI offering. On December 15, 2023, we paid SST VI approximately $6.6 million for the reimbursement of the aforementioned stock dividend.

In consideration for SRA providing the funding for the front-end sales load and the cash to cover the dilution from the stock dividends described above, SST VI OP will issue a number of Series C Units to SRA equal to the dollar amount of such funding divided by the then-current offering price for the Class Y shares and Class Z shares sold in the SST VI offering, which was initially $9.30 per share. Pursuant to the Sponsor Funding Agreement, SRA will reimburse SST VI monthly for the applicable front-end sales load it has agreed to fund, and SST VI OP will issue the Series C Units on a monthly basis upon such reimbursement.

On August 7, 2024, SST VI declared an estimated net asset value per share of $10.00. Since the Series C Units that could be converted would result in the net asset value falling below $10.00 per share, none of the Series C Units we own were converted into Class A units of SST VI OP, and our future purchases will be determined based on the current estimated net asset value at such time. Subsequent to SST VI declaring an estimated net asset value of $10.00 per share, the number of Series C Units SmartStop receives in exchange for funding the front-end sales load of the sale of SST VI's Class Y and Class Z shares is calculated as the dollar amount of such sponsor funding divided by the current offering price of $10.00 per share for such Class Y and Z shares. The Sponsor Funding Agreement will terminate immediately upon the date that SST VI ceases to offer the Class Y shares and Class Z shares in the SST VI offering. The SST VI offering was recently extended by SST VI's board of directors. Inclusive of all extension options exercised by SST VI, its current offering could not extend beyond September 13, 2025.

On November 1, 2023, SRA entered into Amendment No. 3 to the Second Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of SST VI OP with SST VI and SST VI OP containing, among other things, the terms of the Series C Units. The Series C Units shall initially have no distribution, liquidation, voting, or other rights to participate in SST VI OP unless and until such Series C Units are converted into Class A units of SST VI OP. The Series C Units shall automatically convert into class A units on a one-to-one basis upon SST VI’s disclosure of an estimated net asset value per share equal to at least $10.00 per share for each Class of SST VI shares of common stock, including the Class Y shares and Class Z shares, calculated net of the Series C Units to be converted.

Through March 31, 2025, we had incurred approximately $9.7 million in connection with the Sponsor Funding Agreement, representing approximately 1.0 million Series C Units issued by SST VI OP. During the three months ended March 31, 2025 we incurred approximately $0.4 million, of which approximately $0.2 million was accrued as a payable pursuant to the Sponsor Funding Agreement.

As of March 31, 2025, the maximum remaining commitment of SRA pursuant to the Sponsor Funding Agreement was approximately $60.7 million assuming SST VI were to sell the maximum remaining shares available under its current offering of approximately 86.7 million.

Debt Investments

On June 13, 2023 SmartStop OP entered into a promissory note agreement with SST VI OP ( the “SST VI Note”), where SST VI OP borrowed $15.0 million. Interest on the loan accrued at SOFR plus 3.0%. Payments on the SST VI Note are interest only. The loan was extended on December 8, 2023 to December 31, 2024 at the borrower's option and as such, the interest rate on the loan increased to SOFR plus 4.0%, and a fee equal to 0.25% of the outstanding principal balance was due as a result of SST VI exercising the extension option. The SST VI Note required a commitment fee equal to 1.0% of the aggregate principal amount of the loan. On June 28, 2024, the SST VI Note was amended to expand the borrowing capacity up to $25.0 million and further extend the maturity date from December 31, 2024 to December 31, 2025. On July 29, 2024, SST VI borrowed an additional $8.0 million on the SST VI Note.

As of March 31, 2025, SST VI OP had $23.0 million borrowed and outstanding pursuant to the SST VI Note.

The following table summarizes the carrying value of our investments in and advances to SST VI as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 (in thousands):

Receivables:As of March 31, 2025As of December 31, 2024
Receivables and advances due$16,951$13,929
Debt:
SST VI Note23,00023,000
Equity:
SST VI OP Units and SST VI SLP553728
SST VI Series C Units4,8084,554
Total investments in and advances$45,312$42,211

Investments in and advances to SSGT III OP

On August 29, 2022, SmartStop OP made an investment of $5.0 millionin SS Growth Operating Partnership III, L.P., the operating partnership of SSGT III (“SSGT III OP”), in exchange for common units of limited partnership interest in

SSGTIII OP. Additionally, a subsidiary of SmartStop OP owns a special limited partnership interest (the “SSGT III SLP”) in SSGT III OP.

For the three months ended March 31, 2025, we recorded a loss related to our equity interest in SSGT III OP of approximately $0.1 million, and received distributions in the amount of approximately $0.1 million.

For the three months ended March 31, 2024, we recorded a loss related to our equity interest in SSGT III OP of approximately $0.2 million, and received distributions in the amount of approximately $0.1 million.

Debt Investments

On July 31, 2024, our Operating Partnership provided a bridge loan to an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of SSGT III for $20.0 million (the “SSGT III Bridge Loan”) to facilitate SSGT III’s acquisition of two self storage facilities. As of March 31, 2025, SSGT III and its subsidiaries had repaid all amounts outstanding on the SSGT III Bridge Loan, in accordance with the terms of the SSGT III Bridge Loan, no further draws were permitted.

On December 16, 2024, our Operating Partnership provided a promissory note to a subsidiary of SSGT III for $7.0 million (the “SSGT III Promissory Note”), the entire principal amount of the loan was disbursed to SSGT III on such date. Pursuant to this note, interest on the SSGT III Promissory Note accrued at a variable rate equal to SOFR plus 3.0% per annum. Payments on the SSGT III Promissory Note were interest only, and it had an initial maturity date of March 17, 2025. The SSGT III Promissory Note required a commitment fee equal to 0.50% of the amount drawn at closing of the SSGT III Promissory Note. As of March 31, 2025, SSGT III and it subsidiaries had repaid all amounts outstanding on the SSGT III Promissory Note, including accrued interest.

The following table summarizes the carrying value of our investments in and advances to SSGT III as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024(in thousands):

Receivables:As of March 31, 2025As of December 31, 2024
Receivables and advances due$7,743$2,769
Debt:
SSGT III Bridge Loan(1)—2,919
SSGT III Promissory Note(1)—7,000
Equity:
SSGT III OP Units and SSGT III SLP2,6322,823
Total investments in and advances$10,375$15,511

(1)These loans were fully repaid as of March 31, 2025.

Investments in and advances to SST X OP

On January 14, 2025, a subsidiary of SmartStop OP made its contribution related to its investment of $1,000 in SST X OP, in exchange for common units of limited partnership interest in SST X OP. Similarly, the SST X Advisor made a $1,000 investment in common shares on January 28, 2025.

Administrative Services Agreement

On June 28, 2019, we along with our Operating Partnership, our TRS and SmartStop Storage Advisors, LLC (collectively, the “Company Parties”) entered into an Administrative Services Agreement with SAM (the “Administrative Services Agreement”), which, as amended, requires that the Company Parties will be reimbursed for providing certain operational and administrative services to SAM which may include, without limitation, accounting and financial support, IT support, HR support, advisory services and operations support, and administrative support and other miscellaneous reimbursements as set forth in the Administrative Services Agreement and SAM will be reimbursed for providing certain operational and administrative services to the Company Parties which may include, without limitation, due diligence support, marketing, fulfillment and offering support, events support, insurance support, and administrative and facilities support. SAM and the Company Parties will reimburse one another based on the actual costs of providing their respective services.

For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, we incurred reimbursements payable to SAM under the Administrative Services Agreement of approximately $157,000 and $142,000, respectively, which were recorded in the Managed REIT Platform expenses line item in our consolidated statements of operations.

We recorded reimbursements from SAM of approximately $127,000 and $53,000, during the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, related to services provided to SAM, which were included in Managed REIT Platform revenue in our consolidated statements of operations.

As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, a receivable of approximately $0.2 million and $12,000, was due from SAM, respectively, related to the Administrative Services Agreement.

Note 11. Equity Based Compensation

Prior to June 15, 2022, we issued equity based compensation pursuant to the Company’s Employee and Director Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Prior Plan”). On June 15, 2022, our stockholders approved the 2022 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) and we no longer issue equity under the Prior Plan. Pursuant to the Plan, we are able to issue various forms of equity based compensation. Through March 31, 2025, we have generally issued equity based awards in two forms: (1) restricted stock awards consisting of shares of our common stock and (2) long-term incentive plan units of our Operating Partnership (“LTIP Units”).

The fair value of restricted stock is determined on the grant date based on an estimated value per share. The estimated fair value of our restricted stock was determined with the assistance of third party valuation specialists primarily based on an income approach to value our properties as well as the Managed REIT Platform, less the estimated fair value of our debt and other liabilities. The key assumptions used in estimating the fair value of our restricted stock were projected annual net operating income, projected growth rates, discount rates, capitalization rates and an illiquidity discount, if applicable. The fair value of LTIP Units were further adjusted by applying an additional discount as the LTIP Units are not initially economically equivalent to our restricted stock. For performance based awards, a fair value was determined for each performance ranking scenario, with stock compensation expense recorded using the fair value of the scenario determined to be probable of achievement as of the end of the respective period.

Time Based Awards

We have granted various time based awards, which generally vest ratably over eitherone, three, orfour years commencing in the year of grant, subject to the recipient’s continued employment or service through the applicable vesting date. All grants of time based restricted stock have limitations on transferability during the vesting period, and the grantee does not have the ability to vote any unvested shares. Transfers of the unvested portion of restricted stock is restricted.

With respect to grants of time based LTIP Units, distributions accrue based on the effective date of each grant, and are payable as distributions are paid on our Class A Shares without regard to whether the underlying awards have vested. With respect to time based restricted stock issued to our board of directors, distributions accrue as of the effective date of each grant and are payable as distributions are paid on our Class A Shares without regard to whether the underlying awards have vested. With respect to all other existing time based restricted stock, distributions accrue on non-vested shares granted and are paid when the underlying restricted shares vest.

Holders of time based LTIP Units receive allocations of profits and losses with respect to the LTIP Units as of the effective date, distributions from the effective date in an amount equivalent to the distributions declared and paid on our Class A Shares, and the same voting rights as holders of common units, voting as a class with each LTIP Unit holder having one vote per LTIP Unit held. Prior to vesting, time based LTIP Units generally may not be transferred, other than by laws of descent and distribution.

The following table summarizes the activity related to our time based awards:

Restricted Stock · LTIP Units
Time Based Award GrantsSharesWeighted-AverageGrant-DateFair ValueUnitsWeighted-AverageGrant-DateFair Value
Unvested at December 31, 202321,329$53.7795,071$50.75
Granted11,47657.1878,991$54.12
Vested(11,830)51.15(65,624)$50.11
Forfeited(1,313)57.12(3,954)$51.45
Unvested at December 31, 202419,66257.12104,48453.68
Granted——69,67352.12
Vested(9,269)57.05——
Forfeited(117)57.20——
Unvested at March 31, 202510,276$57.18174,157$53.05

Performance Based Awards

With respect to performance based awards, the number of shares of restricted stock granted as of the grant date equaled 100% of the targeted award, whereas the number of LTIP Units granted as of the grant date equaled 200% of the targeted amount of the award. The targeted award for each executive was determined and approved by the Compensation Committee of our board of directors. The actual number of shares of restricted stock or LTIP Units, as applicable, to be issued upon vesting may range from 0% to 200% of the targeted award, such determination being based upon the results of the performance measure. Performance based awards vest based upon our performance as ranked amongst a peer group of self storage related companies. This comparison is conducted using a performance measure of average annual same-store revenue growth, analyzed over a three-year period. Earned awards for the 2023, 2024 and 2025 grants will vest, as applicable, no later than March 31, 2026,2027, and 2028, respectively.

Recipients of performance based restricted stock accrue distributions during the performance period, and such distributions will only be payable on the date that any such shares of restricted stock vest, based upon the performance level attained. Recipients of performance based LTIP Units are issued LTIP Units at 200% of the targeted award and are entitled to receive distributions and allocations of profits and losses with respect to the performance based LTIP Units as of the effective date of each award in an amount equal to 10% of the distributions and allocations available to such LTIP Units, until the Distribution Participation Date (as defined in the Operating Partnership Agreement). The remaining 90% of distributions will accrue and will be payable on the Distribution Participation Date based upon the performance level attained and number of performance based LTIP Units that vest. Following the Distribution Participation Date, recipients will be entitled to receive the full amount of distributions and allocations of profits and losses with respect to the vested performance-based LTIP Units, such amount being equivalent to distributions declared and paid on our Class A Shares.

The following table summarizes our activity related to our performance based awards:

Restricted Stock · LTIP Units
Performance Based Award GrantsSharesWeighted-AverageGrant-DateFair ValueUnitsWeighted-AverageGrant-DateFair Value
Unvested at December 31, 2023—$—133,254$48.64
Granted——67,52454.20
Vested——(37,097)37.20
Forfeited——(4,040)53.45
Unvested at December 31, 2024——159,64153.53
Granted——68,634—
Vested (1)——(13,633)52.72
Forfeited——(13,633)52.72
Unvested at March 31, 2025—$—201,009$53.16

(1)In March of 2025, the Compensation Committee of the board of directors approved the vesting of the 2021 performance grant at 100% of the targeted award.

Holders of performance based restricted stockdo not have any rights as a stockholder with respect to the unvested portion of such restricted stock awards. Prior to vesting, shares of performance based restricted stock generally may not be transferred, other than by laws of descent and distribution.

Holders of performance based LTIP Units have the same voting rights as holders of common units, voting as a class with each LTIP Unit holder havingone vote per LTIP Unit held. Prior to vesting, performance based LTIP Units generally may not be transferred, other than by laws of descent and distribution.

LTIP Units are designed to qualify as “profits interests” in the Operating Partnership for federal income tax purposes. The profits interests’ characteristics of the LTIP Units mean that initially they will not be treated as economically equivalent in value to a common unit and the issuance of LTIP Units will not be a taxable event to the Operating Partnership or the recipient. If and when certain events occur pursuant to applicable tax regulations and in accordance with the Operating Partnership Agreement, LTIP Units may become economically equivalent to common units of limited partnership interest of our Operating Partnership on a one-for-one basis.

As of March 31, 2025,2,067,925 shares of stock were available for issuance under the Plan.

We recorded approximately $1.2 million of equity based compensation expense in general and administrative expense during the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to approximately $1.1 million during the three months ended March 31, 2024. We recorded approximately $0.1 million of equity based compensation expense in property operating expenses, within our consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to approximately $0.1 million during the three months ended March 31, 2024.

As of March 31, 2025, there was approximately $12.1 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested equity awards, with such cost expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.6 years.

As of December 31, 2024, there was approximately $7.9 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested equity awards, with such cost expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.1 years.

In March 2025, the compensation committee of our board of directors approved the 2025 executive compensation terms for our executives, which included (1) performance-based equity grants in the form of either, at the election of the executive, restricted stock awards or LTIP Units, and (2) time-based equity grants in the form of either, at the election of the executive, restricted stock awards or LTIP Units.

In March 2025, an aggregate of 68,634 performance-based LTIP Units and approximately 69,673 time-based LTIP Units were issued to executive officers. The performance-based LTIP Units vest after the three year performance period, based upon the performance level attained. The time-based LTIP Units vest ratably over four years, with the first tranche vesting on December 31, 2025, subject to the recipient’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

In April 2025, in connection with the Underwritten Public Offering, an aggregate of approximately 287,080 time-based LTIP Units and 344,894 shares of restricted stock were issued to approximately 320 employees and directors. None of these awards granted in connection with the Underwritten Public Offering were issued to our Chief Executive Officer. Approximately 287,080 of these LTIP Units, and approximately 119,829 of these restricted shares vest ratably over four years, respectively, with the first tranche vesting on April 1, 2026. Approximately 225,065 of the total shares issued vest aftersix months, on October 1, 2025. All such grants vest subject to the recipient’s continued employment through the applicable vesting date.

Note 12. Commitments and Contingencies

Distribution Reinvestment Plan

We had adopted an amended and restated distribution reinvestment plan (our “DRP”) that allowed both our Class A and Class T stockholders to have distributions otherwise distributable to them invested in additional Class A Shares and Class T Shares, respectively. The purchase price per share pursuant to our DRP was equivalent to the estimated value per share approved by our board of directors and in effect on the date of purchase of shares under the plan. Any shares sold pursuant to our distribution reinvestment plan were sold at our then current estimated value per share. Please see the section below titled “Termination of DRP and SRP” for additional information.

As of March 31, 2025, we had sold approximately 2.7 million of Class A Common Stock and approximately 0.3 million of Class T Common Stock through our distribution reinvestment plan, of which, approximately 188,000 Class A Shares and approximately 21,000 Class T Shares were sold under our current DRP Offering. The DRP Offering was terminated on May 1, 2025.

Share Redemption Program

As described in “Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – Redeemable Common Stock,” we had an SRP. Please refer to that section for additional details.

Pursuant to the SRP, we were able to redeem the shares of stock presented for redemption for cash to the extent that such requests complied with the terms of our SRP and we had sufficient funds available to fund such redemption. Our board of directors could amend, suspend or terminate the SRP with 30 days’ notice to our stockholders. On April 29, 2025, we terminated our SRP.

During the year ended December 31, 2024, appr oximately 0.5 million shares or $29.9 million of requests that met the eligibility criteria were requested to be redeemed; approximately $29.9 million of which were fulfilled during the year ended December 31, 2024. Due to the suspension of our SRP, we were unable to honor redemption requests not yet fulfilled prior to the suspension, including requests submitted subsequent to such suspension, which became effective November 25, 2024. On April 29, 2025, in light of our listing on the NYSE, our board of directors approved the termination of our SRP, which termination will become fully and finally effective on May 29, 2025.

Operating Partnership Redemption Rights

Generally, the limited partners of our Operating Partnership have the right to cause our Operating Partnership to redeem their limited partnership units for cash equal to the value of an equivalent number of our shares, or, at our option, we may purchase their limited partnership units by issuingone share of our common stock for each limited partnership unit redeemed. These rights may not be exercised under certain circumstances that could cause us to lose our REIT election. Furthermore, limited partners may exercise their redemption rights only after their limited partnership units have been outstanding forone year.

Additionally, the Class A-1 Units issued in connection with the Self Administration Transaction are subject to the general restrictions on transfer contained in the Operating Partnership Agreement. The Class A-1 Units are otherwise entitled to all rights and duties of the Class A limited partnership units in the Operating Partnership, including cash distributions and the allocation of any profits or losses in the Operating Partnership.

Other Contingencies and Commitments

We have severance arrangements which cover certain members of our management team; these provide for severance payments upon certain events, including after a change of control.

See Note 10 – Related Party Transactions related to our debt investments in the Managed REITs and our Sponsor Funding Agreement with SST VI for more information about our contingent obligations under these agreements.

As of March 31, 2025, pursuant to various contractual relationships, we were required to make other non-cancellable payments in the amounts of approximately $4.0 million, $3.7 million, and $3.9 million during the years ending December 31,2025,2026, and 2027, respectively.

From time to time, we are party to legal, regulatory and other proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of our business. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, management accrues an estimated liability when those matters present loss contingencies that are both probable and reasonably estimable. In such cases, there may be an exposure to loss in excess of any amounts accrued. For such proceedings, we are not aware of any for which the outcome is reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial condition.

Note 13. Declaration of Distributions

On February 26, 2025, our board of directors declared a distribution rate for the month of March 2025 of approximately $0.2038 per share on the outstanding shares of common stock payable to Class A and Class T stockholders of record of such shares as shown on our books at the close of business on March 31, 2025. Such distributions payable to each stockholder of record were paid the following month.

On March 21, 2025, our board of directors also approved a distribution amount for the month of April 2025 such that all holders of our outstanding common stock for the month of April, inclusive of our Class A, Class T and unclassified shares, will receive a distribution equal to $0.1315 per share. The April 2025 distribution payable to each stockholder of record at the end of April will be paid on or about May 15, 2025.

Note 14. Subsequent Events

In addition to the subsequent events discussed elsewhere in the notes to the financial statements, including but not limited to the Underwritten Public Offering, the following events occurred subsequent to March 31, 2025:

Acquisition

On April 15, 2025, we purchased a self storage facility located in Kelowna, British Columbia (the "Kelowna Property"). The purchase price for the Kelowna Property was approximately $39.3 million CAD (or approximately $28.3 million USD), plus closing costs. Upon acquisition, the property was approximately 89% occupied. In connection with this acquisition, we assumed a loan from the seller in the amount of approximately $24.5 million CAD or approximately $17.7 million USD, (the "Kelowna Loan"). We also provided a full recourse guaranty to the lenders in connection with this loan. The Kelowna Loan incurs interest at a fixed rate of 3.45% with amortizing principal payments based on a 25 year amortization schedule, with a maturity of September 30, 2028.

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