Inside the Mind of a Storage Auction Pro: Jackie’s Story
Meet Jackie Dennis, a full-time registered nurse, part-time auction hunter, and proud member of our Auction Buyer Council. When she’s not caring for patients, she’s bidding on storage units—and winning big. Her journey is proof that with the right eye, a little heart, and some serious hustle, you can turn storage auctions into real income and real fun.
How It All Started: A Yard Sale, a Helping Hand, and a Spark
Jackie’s entry into the world of storage auctions didn’t start with a business plan — it started with compassion. In 2018, she attended a yard sale for an elderly couple in her neighborhood who were facing foreclosure. She noticed people taking advantage of them during the sale, and her instincts kicked in. She returned to help them clean out their home and relocate to a retirement facility.
“I freaking loved it,” Jackie said. “I had so much fun, and I was like, ‘Man, I could do this for a living.’”
That one weekend sparked a new passion. A friend introduced her to the world of storage auctions, and before long, Jackie was bidding on her first unit.
The First Big Win
She spent $175 on her first unit and made nearly $12,000 reselling the contents.
“Hook, line, and sinker,” she laughed. “I was done. I’ve been hooked ever since.”
From that moment on, storage auctions became a regular part of Jackie’s life — and her source of steady income. She has won over 440 auctions!
Storage Auctions Changed Her Life
Jackie isn’t just buying units for fun. It’s been a financial game changer. After going through a difficult divorce in 2010 and trying to support her kids on her own, Jackie was always looking for ways to make ends meet.
When she found auctions, that all changed.
“I’ve never had to worry about money since. I don’t have to buy toiletries, cleaning supplies, clothes — it’s all in the units,” Jackie explained. “My kids have had brand-new shoes and clothes from auction finds. It’s been such a blessing.”
Now her son has moved back home to help grow the side business—turning it into a true family operation.
From ICU to Whatnot
Jackie credits her background as a critical care nurse with giving her a keen eye for detail. That precision helps her identify winning units that others might overlook.
“I think I just have a sixth sense about it,” she said. “I’ll get a feeling about a unit and most of the time, I’m right. People say I’m lucky — maybe — but I also just pay attention.”
She sells her finds on eBay, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, and now Whatnot. Jackie has turned her side hustle into a powerhouse. Lately, she’s found a new passion in Whatnot—where she’s already built an impressive following and sells most of her finds. Jackie proves that for savvy bidders, the thrill of the hunt is just the beginning—the real fun starts with the sale.
Jackpot Units and Jewelry Hauls
One of Jackie’s biggest finds came from a 25-foot unit packed to the ceiling with brand-new merchandise — everything from Macy’s, Nordstrom, QVC, and HSN. She paid $1,200 and has made over $25,000 reselling that single unit.
“I’m still making money off that unit,” she said. “It was wild — jewelry, clothing, everything was new. I kept a lot of the jewelry and I’m even wearing some of it in the video!”
Why It Works: Buying Smart and Bidding with Intuition
While Jackie often spends around $200 per unit, she still consistently pulls in high returns. Her secret? She studies every photo, trusts her instincts, and knows what sells.
“It’s like Christmas morning every time I open a unit,” she said. “You never know what you’re going to get — and that’s part of the thrill.”
Advice to New Bidders
If you’re thinking about buying your first unit, storage auction pro Jackie’s advice is simple:
“Start small. Use your judgment. Be ready to work. And don’t be afraid — you might just love it.”
A Shining Example of Storage Success
Jackie Dennis proves that storage auctions aren’t just about finding hidden treasures — they’re about building something meaningful. Whether it’s supporting your family, starting a side hustle, or just doing what you love, there’s real opportunity behind every roll-up door. To learn more about her story check out her video interview on our Youtube channel. Check out our other bidder stories too!
Ready to get started?
Check out the latest storage auctions near you on StorageTreasures and start your own journey.
