AMiataCalledSteve
AMiataCalledSteve HalfDork
2/20/24 3:12 p.m.

This summer, my living situation dictates that I move to a new rental, and for whatever reason garages seem to be in short supply in the markets I'm looking in. I'm trying to come to terms with the idea that I won't have my nice 2 car garage from the house I've lived in for the last 3 years, but that house was a bit of a unicorn and I'm not optimistic that I'll find its equal. I expect this next move to last another 2-5 years.

I have a decent set of tools, some spares for the cars, a workbench, a modest toolbox, and of course the two racecars. The stock car is my current project and my Miata is my track rat / fun street car. Neither is weatherproof. I don't want to sell either car. I still want to wrench on both regularly - working on the cars is a big part of my hobby and makes me happy.

What would you do in my situation? Buy a big enclosed trailer to keep them in? Get one of those canvas "garages"? I'd rather not rent a storage unit but that could be a last ditch option, though I'd rather have the cars nearby to work on them.

Dusterbd13-michael
Dusterbd13-michael MegaDork
2/20/24 3:28 p.m.

Buy a metal building? Then take it with you when you leave

GameboyRMH
GameboyRMH MegaDork
2/20/24 6:28 p.m.

Canvas "garages" seem to be a popular solution, they work if you just need to keep a car and workspace out of the weather, but don't offer security against a good knife. I'm seeing a lot of real garages getting converted into additional rooms, sadly...

Blunder
Blunder Reader
2/20/24 7:01 p.m.

I forget the name of the app or website but it was used for people who rent out their garages sort of like air bnb. Maybe you could find a two car garage for rent right near your new place instead of a storage unit. 

imgon
imgon HalfDork
2/21/24 1:13 p.m.

I have had a tent garage for over 15 years, on The 2nd cover, had to repair some of the frame and have moved it from one house to another. They are good for storing things that don't mind being outdoors, definitely not the same as a real garage. Not secure, zipper doors and easy for critters to get in. It is hot in the summer and cold in the winter but if you need to work on a car when it is raining it is way better than being in the driveway. Probably the least offensive thing  to put up on a rental property. Good luck 

dculberson
dculberson MegaDork
2/21/24 1:35 p.m.
Blunder said:

I forget the name of the app or website but it was used for people who rent out their garages sort of like air bnb. Maybe you could find a two car garage for rent right near your new place instead of a storage unit. 

Neighbor.com is probably what you're thinking of. People list their garages, basements, sheds, etc for rent. 

93gsxturbo
93gsxturbo UltraDork
2/21/24 1:53 p.m.

If it is an area you plan on staying in long-term and wrenching and renting is important to you, you are going to have to make the jump to a dedicated rental space just for wrenching.

Or buy a place with the garage of your dreams.  

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