#115 - Inside Self-Storage: A Hidden Powerhouse for Investors

Passive Income Pilots

Get ready to uncover the secrets of one of commercial real estate’s most resilient and misunderstood asset classes: self-storage. In this in-depth episode, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson explore why self-storage continues to outperform in uncertain times, how millennials are transforming storage use, and what makes it such a powerful wealth vehicle for passive investors. They share personal stories, break down tenant behavior, explain how to boost NOI with tenant insurance, and demystify cap rates and value creation. Plus, hear about their upcoming Houston tour where you can walk properties and learn the strategy firsthand.

Show notes:

(0:00) Intro

(4:07) A brief history of self-storage

(8:52) Sticky tenants and rent increases

(11:09) Millennials, boomers, and behavior shifts

(15:06) Business use cases and commercial demand

(18:43) Automation, kiosks, and virtual support

(23:02) Recession resistance and industry resilience

(30:20) Buying from mom and pops

(35:48) What actually drives cap rate compression

(43:10) Capital flows and REIT consolidation

(47:40) Outro

🎟️ LIVE EVENT — JULY 9, 2025

Want to see these strategies in action? Join Ryan and Tait for a half-day Self-Storage Bus Tour and happy hour in Houston. RSVP now at http://Passiveincomepilots.com/houston

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*Legal Disclaimer*

The content of this podcast is provided solely for educational and informational purposes. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson, and do not reflect those of any organization they are associated with, including Turbine Capital or Spartan Investment Group. The opinions of our guests are their own and should not be construed as financial advice. This podcast does not offer tax, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are advised to consult with their own legal or financial counsel and to conduct their own due diligence before making any financial decisions.