If you are considering investing in self-storage real estate, selecting the right syndicator or fund manager is one of your most important decisions. Whether you target stabilized storage facilities, value-add opportunities, or fully passive investment structures, a knowledgeable and trustworthy partner can help you achieve stronger returns with lower risk.
Below, we at RockStep Capital have highlighted eight of the most reputable and active self-storage investment firms in the United States. These companies have built their reputations through disciplined acquisitions, operational excellence, and a clear focus on helping passive investors succeed. This list is presented in no specific order.
1. Spartan Investment Group
Founders: Scott Lewis and Ryan Gibson
Spartan Investment Group has rapidly established itself as a leader in the self-storage sector. Co-founded by Scott Lewis and Ryan Gibson, the company operates under the FreeUP Storage brand and focuses on acquiring and improving value-add self-storage properties nationwide. Spartan’s vertically integrated model means they handle every step of the process, from acquisitions and development to property management, ensuring greater control and efficiency. Known for its transparency, investor education, and strong emphasis on risk management, Spartan has become a go-to choice for passive investors seeking reliability and consistent communication.
2. Van West Partners
Leadership: Jacob Vanderslice, Wade Buxton, and Aaron Westphal
Van West Partners, based in Denver, specializes in acquiring underperforming self-storage facilities across the United States. Led by Jacob Vanderslice, Wade Buxton, and Aaron Westphal, Van West targets value-add properties where operational improvements and strategic renovations can drive significant increases in value. Through their Storage Fund series, the firm offers passive investors the opportunity to participate in a diversified portfolio of self-storage assets. Van West stands out for its hands-on management style, disciplined market selection, and commitment to aligning its interests with its investors.
3. Reliant Real Estate Management
Reliant Real Estate Management has earned a strong reputation as one of the nation’s largest and most experienced private self-storage operators. The firm focuses primarily on secondary and tertiary markets throughout the Southeast, identifying stabilized and value-add opportunities that offer solid cash flow and potential for appreciation. Reliant’s detailed underwriting, operational expertise, and economies of scale have made them a trusted partner for investors seeking institutional-quality storage investments without the complexity of managing properties themselves.
4. Passive Storage Investing
Founder: Scott Meyers
Scott Meyers, widely regarded as one of the leading educators and operators in the self-storage sector, founded Passive Storage Investing to provide hands-off investment opportunities for accredited investors. His firm focuses on acquiring self-storage properties in recession-resistant markets with strong demand drivers. In addition to managing investments, Scott also offers training programs and educational content for those interested in learning the business. Passive Storage Investing appeals to individuals looking for a completely passive experience backed by a proven track record and a strong emphasis on investor education.
5. Cedar Creek Capital
Founder: AJ Osborne
Cedar Creek Capital, founded by AJ Osborne, specializes in acquiring and repositioning self-storage facilities throughout the United States. AJ is a leading voice in the self-storage investment world and author of The Investor’s Guide to Growing Wealth in Self-Storage. He brings a wealth of industry knowledge and hands-on experience to the firm’s operations. Cedar Creek focuses on cash-flowing properties with value-add potential, using operational improvements and market repositioning to increase income and asset value. The company’s investor-focused approach and commitment to long-term wealth building make it an excellent choice for passive investors.
Getting Started With Your Investment Partner
Self-storage has gained popularity among investors for good reason. It offers strong cash flow, recession resilience, and relatively low operational costs compared to other commercial real estate asset classes. For new investors, working with an experienced syndicator or fund manager can simplify the complexities of real estate investing and provide access to larger, more lucrative deals than they might achieve alone.
The eight firms highlighted above offer a range of strategies, from conservative income-producing properties to value-add opportunities with significant upside potential. Whether you prefer a fully passive approach or want a partner who can guide you through the fundamentals of self-storage investing, these companies provide proven models to help you grow your portfolio confidently.
At RockStep Capital, we specialize in retail real estate, but we recognize the value that self-storage can bring to a diversified commercial real estate strategy. If you are exploring different asset classes or just starting your investing journey, we invite you to visit our Learning Center, which provides educational content tailored to new commercial real estate investors.
Explore helpful articles that cover essential topics like:
- How Retail Real Estate Differs From Other Real Estate Types
- Critical Real Estate Terminology For New Investors
- How Syndications Work For Passive Investors
And do not forget to download our free eBook: “The One-Stop Guide to Retail Property Investing”. It is packed with practical advice, clear explanations, and actionable steps to help you confidently build your first commercial real estate portfolio.
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