what are some good houses to store stuff

After becoming Duke/Duchess of Mania/Dementia, you are free to store stuff in the ducal quarters.

Other than that, Hirrus Clutumnus' jewelry box and dresser are said to be safe for storage http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Shivering:FAQs#Can_I_get_a_house_or_safe_storage_in_the_Shivering_Isles.3F. I wouldn't store anything just anywhere before thoroughly testing the container or checking it out in the construction set, just to be on the safe side. You can always return to Cyrodiil to take stuff to a house there, which is probably the easiest option, if you're not the Duke or Duchess yet.