Sexton's Satisfies Storage Needs

Originally published May 28, 2008 in the Bradley News

Why rent-to-rent when you can rent-to-own or purchase a storage building for your own backyard?  That is the motto of one of Cleveland's newest businesses, Sexton Backyard Storage.  Larry & Colleen Sexton, long-time residents of Cleveland, and Wendell & Rosie Sexton, anxiously awaiting their move from Harriman to Cleveland, are proud of their quality, affordable product.  "I enjoy selling the buildings," Wendell said.  "They're fun and easy to sell.  We have a good product and a lot of satisfied customers."  Sexton Backyard Storage (SBS) off of Georgetown Rd. is a distributor for Backyard Outfitters.  Their storage buildings are built in Belvidere, TN, by the Mennonites who are known for their excellent craftsmanship.  All exposed wood is pressure treated lumber.  They also offer metal buildings now.  "We like the fact that every other wall stud is double studded," said Wendell.  "Underneath the building where the floor joist goes across the skid plates, the skid plates are actually notched out half an inch and the floor joist is fitted and nailed."

Before opening SBS in January, Wendell has been a successful car dealer in Harriman, TN, since 1970.  Three years ago, he decided to add storage buildings to his car lot.  His wife Rosie is a school teacher in Kingston.  "When Rosie and I retire, we'll be hopefully moving to Cleveland.  We don't want to just rock in our rocking chairs." said Wendell.  "We want to retire here because our son and his family are here.  We like the area and would like to be a part of it," Wendell and Rosie agree.  Since it is a family business, Colleen runs the Cleveland location through the week with her little helpers, 6 and 5 year olds Chase and Leanna.  Larry works at Bowater in Calhoun and helps on the weekends.

Wendell admits he's not a fixture--he comes some weekends.  Rosie said, "I'm the support staff!"  Because there are no credit checks, no one is turned away!  SBS offers affordable purchase prices ranging from $1,000 to $7,000.  At certain times, you can purchase a rental return for less than the cost of a new building.  If a customer would rather rent, he only pays the first month's rent and a low $100-$200 security deposit.  After 36 months, the building is theirs; however, they have the option to pay it off at any time without penalties.  Not only is delivery and set up FREE within 50 miles, deliveries are also quick!  [usually 1 week (buildings on the lot) to 3 weeks (orders) -- weather permitting]  SBS can customize a building to the customer's needs.  One can choose shelves, workbenches, add lofts, and move windows and doors.  While the majority buy for storage, some purchase buildings as use for hunting cabins, playhouses, beauty shops, picture framing and craft shops.

The Sextons feel they offer a good team concept - good people building, selling, and delivering the buildings.  "We've found after selling them for three years that we have repeat customers and referrals.  That is the reason behind SBS having monthly and an annual drawing to give money back to their loyal customers.  We thought we would afford this product to the people in this area as well," said Wendell.  "I'd like to invite everyone to come and check out our quality products at great prices."  We encourage you to visit our website www.sextonstorage.com to see our buildings and obtain additional information.