Your Trusted Houston Commercial Real Estate Brokerage

Viking Enterprise LLC is part of eXp Commercial, an agent-led, cloud-based commercial real estate brokerage with agents across the globe.

Your Trusted Katy / Fulshear & Houston Commercial Real Estate Brokerage

Viking Enterprise LLC is part of eXp Commercial, an agent-led, cloud-based commercial real estate brokerage with agents across the globe.

Looking to invest, buy, sell or lease? We can help.

Looking to invest, buy, sell or lease? We can help.

OUR FEATURED TENANTS & CLIENTS

eXp Commercial - Viking Enterprise Team's real estate network provides unparalleled commercial real estate services to Tenants and Landlords around the Katy- Houston area. Our knowledge, experience, and reputation sets us apart from many firms.


A commercial property owner might have various plans that would necessitate the services of a commercial real estate broker. Some of the common scenarios include:

1. Selling the Property: If the owner decides it’s time to sell the property, a commercial real estate broker can help determine the market value, market the property effectively, and negotiate with potential buyers to get the best possible price.

2. Leasing Space: For property owners looking to lease out part or all of their commercial space, a broker can help find suitable tenants, negotiate lease terms, and ensure the lease agreements meet all legal requirements and serve the owner’s best interests.

3. Acquiring More Properties: Owners looking to expand their portfolio would benefit from a broker's knowledge of the market, access to listings, and negotiation skills to secure additional properties at favorable terms.

4. Property Management: While not all brokers offer this service, some commercial real estate brokers or their affiliates offer property management services. This can be particularly appealing for owners who prefer a hands-off approach or are managing properties from a distance.

5. Market Analysis: Owners considering future developments, renovations, or rebranding of their property might engage a broker for a comprehensive market analysis. This helps in understanding current market trends, the demand for different types of spaces, and potential returns on investment for various strategies.

6. Refinancing: In situations where a property owner is looking to refinance their property, a commercial real estate broker can provide valuable insights into the property’s current market value, assist in gathering necessary documentation, and even help in finding the best financing options.

7. Partnership or Investment Opportunities: Owners interested in exploring partnerships, joint ventures, or seeking investors for expansion or development projects might use a broker to find and vet potential partners or investors.

8. Consulting on Zoning and Use Changes: When contemplating a change in the use of the property or dealing with zoning issues, a broker with experience in local regulations and the specific property type can provide guidance and strategic planning assistance.

9. Exit Strategy Planning: For owners looking to plan an exit strategy from their investment, whether it’s through a strategic sale or a gradual winding down of operations, brokers can provide market insights, timing advice, and valuation services to optimize the exit process.

In any of these scenarios, the expertise and services provided by a commercial real estate broker can save the property owner time and money, while also providing access to a wider network of potential buyers, tenants, and industry professionals. Give us a call today!

Reviews

🌎 IOS Real Estate Boom: Why Investors Are Turning to Outdoor Storage 💰

🚛 Industrial Outdoor Storage: The $200B CRE Market You’re Missing 🚀

September 18, 20253 min read

🚛 Industrial Outdoor Storage: The $200B CRE Market You’re Missing 🚀

🌎 IOS Real Estate Boom: Why Investors Are Turning to Outdoor Storage 💰


🚛 Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS): The $200B Market Investors Can’t Ignore

Industrial outdoor storage (IOS) has long been the underdog of the U.S. industrial real estate market. But times are changing. Once overlooked, IOS is now commanding the attention of institutional and private investors as it outperforms traditional industrial assets like bulk warehouses in both rent growth and vacancy stability.

📊 The Rise of IOS as an Asset Class

According to Newmark, IOS has experienced 123% rent growth since 2020, compared to just 58% for bulk warehouse space. Even more telling, IOS vacancy rates are roughly half that of bulk warehouses, signaling strong and sustained demand.

With 1.4 million acres of IOS across the U.S.—an area comparable to the size of Delaware—the market represents a conservative $200 billion capitalization. Expanding the definition to include railyards, ports, and airports, the IOS sector could easily exceed a trillion-dollar market value.

🔎 What Exactly Is IOS?

Industrial outdoor storage differs from traditional industrial real estate in both structure and use. It can be divided into two main categories:

1.      Transport, Logistics & Fleet Operations

o    Cross-dock truck terminals

o    Shipping container storage

o    Trailer parking

o    Fleet maintenance/charging stations

o    Typical users: FedEx, JB Hunt, Maersk

2.      Equipment & Bulk Materials Storage

o    Contractor yards

o    Building materials supply centers

o    Equipment rentals

o    Landscaping services

o    Typical users: TruGreen, ABC Supply, United Rentals

Unlike bulk warehouses that cover larger footprints and emphasize building efficiency, IOS typically requires 1–15 acre parcels with building coverage under 20%. The focus is on yard space, not building design.

📈 Why Investors Should Pay Attention

For years, bulk warehouses were the darlings of industrial investors. But the IOS sector is proving to be more resilient and lucrative:

·         Higher Rent Growth – IOS rent growth has more than doubled that of bulk warehouses since 2020.

·         Lower Vacancy Rates – Demand far exceeds supply in most markets.

·         Diverse User Base – From logistics giants to local contractors, IOS tenants are critical to daily commerce.

·         Scarcity Value – Zoning, location, and land constraints limit the availability of IOS parcels, adding long-term investment value.

🏗️ The Future of IOS

As e-commerce, last-mile delivery, and infrastructure expansion continue, IOS is positioned for institutionalization and consolidation. Investors who get in early stand to benefit from long-term appreciation and reliable income streams.

IOS may lack the shiny façade of a bulk warehouse, but it has proven to be a high-performing, low-vacancy powerhouse—a sector ready for prime time in U.S. commercial real estate.

👉 If you’re an investor or business owner looking to explore IOS opportunities in Houston, Katy, or Fulshear, our team at Viking Enterprise | eXp Commercial can help identify the best deals on and off-market.


https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/

https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/houston-cre-navigator

https://www.commercialexchange.com/agent/653bf5593e3a3e1dcec275a6

http://expressoffers.com/[email protected]

https://app.bullpenre.com/profile/1742476177701x437444415125976000

https://author.billrapponline.com/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F32Z5BH2

https://veed.cello.so/FOmzTty6oi9


© 2023-2024 Bill Rapp, Broker Associate, eXp Commercial Viking Enterprise Team


IOS real estate investmentIndustrial Outdoor Storage (IOS)Industrial land Houstonoutdoor storage commercial real estateIOS rent growthlogistics and contractor yards
blog author image

Bill Rapp, CRE Broker

I am a Houston commercial broker, with residential experience, as well as a lending background. I have been in the real estate industry for 14 years and counting, and I have worked in many roles within the industry and each has given me a unique perspective of the industry as a whole. My dedication to clients is rooted in this industry knowledge, but also includes my desire to go the extra mile in networking to source off market opportunities for my clients. Me and my team at eXp Commercial have a cutting-edge technology package that gets the widest exposure for each transaction. eXp Commercial offers a nationwide network through which we can deliver the best exposure and professional advice to achieve our clients’ goals while also minimizing their risk. Clients appreciate my methodical method of discovery in our initial consultation. Through which we can get to know each other and their specific’s business’s needs and objectives on a granular level. Our processes help navigate each transaction and its potential pitfalls through to a successful outcome for our clients. It is my stated goal to provide our clients with extensive market analysis and expertise that fosters innovative solutions and rewarding commercial real estate opportunities.

Back to Blog

eXp Commercial - Viking Enterprise team real estate network provides unparalleled commercial real estate services to Tenants and Landlords around the greater Katy & Houston MSA area. Our knowledge, experience, and reputation sets us apart from many firms.

A commercial property owner might have various plans that would necessitate the services of a commercial real estate broker. Some of the common scenarios include:

1. Selling the Property: If the owner decides it’s time to sell the property, a commercial real estate broker can help determine the market value, market the property effectively, and negotiate with potential buyers to get the best possible price.

2. Leasing Space: For property owners looking to lease out part or all of their commercial space, a broker can help find suitable tenants, negotiate lease terms, and ensure the lease agreements meet all legal requirements and serve the owner’s best interests.

3. Acquiring More Properties: Owners looking to expand their portfolio would benefit from a broker's knowledge of the market, access to listings, and negotiation skills to secure additional properties at favorable terms.

4. Property Management: While not all brokers offer this service, some commercial real estate brokers or their affiliates offer property management services. This can be particularly appealing for owners who prefer a hands-off approach or are managing properties from a distance.

5. Market Analysis: Owners considering future developments, renovations, or rebranding of their property might engage a broker for a comprehensive market analysis. This helps in understanding current market trends, the demand for different types of spaces, and potential returns on investment for various strategies.

6. Refinancing: In situations where a property owner is looking to refinance their property, a commercial real estate broker can provide valuable insights into the property’s current market value, assist in gathering necessary documentation, and even help in finding the best financing options.

7. Partnership or Investment Opportunities: Owners interested in exploring partnerships, joint ventures, or seeking investors for expansion or development projects might use a broker to find and vet potential partners or investors.

8. Consulting on Zoning and Use Changes: When contemplating a change in the use of the property or dealing with zoning issues, a broker with experience in local regulations and the specific property type can provide guidance and strategic planning assistance.

9. Exit Strategy Planning: For owners looking to plan an exit strategy from their investment, whether it’s through a strategic sale or a gradual winding down of operations, brokers can provide market insights, timing advice, and valuation services to optimize the exit process.

In any of these scenarios, the expertise and services provided by a commercial real estate broker can save the property owner time and money, while also providing access to a wider network of potential buyers, tenants, and industry professionals. Give us a call today!

Find the perfect location for your business.

Let us help your business succeed.

🌎 IOS Real Estate Boom: Why Investors Are Turning to Outdoor Storage 💰

🚛 Industrial Outdoor Storage: The $200B CRE Market You’re Missing 🚀

September 18, 20253 min read

🚛 Industrial Outdoor Storage: The $200B CRE Market You’re Missing 🚀

🌎 IOS Real Estate Boom: Why Investors Are Turning to Outdoor Storage 💰


🚛 Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS): The $200B Market Investors Can’t Ignore

Industrial outdoor storage (IOS) has long been the underdog of the U.S. industrial real estate market. But times are changing. Once overlooked, IOS is now commanding the attention of institutional and private investors as it outperforms traditional industrial assets like bulk warehouses in both rent growth and vacancy stability.

📊 The Rise of IOS as an Asset Class

According to Newmark, IOS has experienced 123% rent growth since 2020, compared to just 58% for bulk warehouse space. Even more telling, IOS vacancy rates are roughly half that of bulk warehouses, signaling strong and sustained demand.

With 1.4 million acres of IOS across the U.S.—an area comparable to the size of Delaware—the market represents a conservative $200 billion capitalization. Expanding the definition to include railyards, ports, and airports, the IOS sector could easily exceed a trillion-dollar market value.

🔎 What Exactly Is IOS?

Industrial outdoor storage differs from traditional industrial real estate in both structure and use. It can be divided into two main categories:

1.      Transport, Logistics & Fleet Operations

o    Cross-dock truck terminals

o    Shipping container storage

o    Trailer parking

o    Fleet maintenance/charging stations

o    Typical users: FedEx, JB Hunt, Maersk

2.      Equipment & Bulk Materials Storage

o    Contractor yards

o    Building materials supply centers

o    Equipment rentals

o    Landscaping services

o    Typical users: TruGreen, ABC Supply, United Rentals

Unlike bulk warehouses that cover larger footprints and emphasize building efficiency, IOS typically requires 1–15 acre parcels with building coverage under 20%. The focus is on yard space, not building design.

📈 Why Investors Should Pay Attention

For years, bulk warehouses were the darlings of industrial investors. But the IOS sector is proving to be more resilient and lucrative:

·         Higher Rent Growth – IOS rent growth has more than doubled that of bulk warehouses since 2020.

·         Lower Vacancy Rates – Demand far exceeds supply in most markets.

·         Diverse User Base – From logistics giants to local contractors, IOS tenants are critical to daily commerce.

·         Scarcity Value – Zoning, location, and land constraints limit the availability of IOS parcels, adding long-term investment value.

🏗️ The Future of IOS

As e-commerce, last-mile delivery, and infrastructure expansion continue, IOS is positioned for institutionalization and consolidation. Investors who get in early stand to benefit from long-term appreciation and reliable income streams.

IOS may lack the shiny façade of a bulk warehouse, but it has proven to be a high-performing, low-vacancy powerhouse—a sector ready for prime time in U.S. commercial real estate.

👉 If you’re an investor or business owner looking to explore IOS opportunities in Houston, Katy, or Fulshear, our team at Viking Enterprise | eXp Commercial can help identify the best deals on and off-market.


https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/

https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/houston-cre-navigator

https://www.commercialexchange.com/agent/653bf5593e3a3e1dcec275a6

http://expressoffers.com/[email protected]

https://app.bullpenre.com/profile/1742476177701x437444415125976000

https://author.billrapponline.com/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F32Z5BH2

https://veed.cello.so/FOmzTty6oi9


© 2023-2024 Bill Rapp, Broker Associate, eXp Commercial Viking Enterprise Team


IOS real estate investmentIndustrial Outdoor Storage (IOS)Industrial land Houstonoutdoor storage commercial real estateIOS rent growthlogistics and contractor yards
blog author image

Bill Rapp, CRE Broker

I am a Houston commercial broker, with residential experience, as well as a lending background. I have been in the real estate industry for 14 years and counting, and I have worked in many roles within the industry and each has given me a unique perspective of the industry as a whole. My dedication to clients is rooted in this industry knowledge, but also includes my desire to go the extra mile in networking to source off market opportunities for my clients. Me and my team at eXp Commercial have a cutting-edge technology package that gets the widest exposure for each transaction. eXp Commercial offers a nationwide network through which we can deliver the best exposure and professional advice to achieve our clients’ goals while also minimizing their risk. Clients appreciate my methodical method of discovery in our initial consultation. Through which we can get to know each other and their specific’s business’s needs and objectives on a granular level. Our processes help navigate each transaction and its potential pitfalls through to a successful outcome for our clients. It is my stated goal to provide our clients with extensive market analysis and expertise that fosters innovative solutions and rewarding commercial real estate opportunities.

Back to Blog

Find the perfect location for your business.

Let us help your business succeed.

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27815 Astoria Brook Ln

Katy, TX 77494 USA


9600 Great Hills Trail, Suite 150w Austin, TX 78759 |
855.450.0324 xx255

Texas Real Estate Commission Consumer Protection Notice Texas Real Estate Commission

Information About Brokerage Services eXp Commercial LLC #9010212

Viking Enterprise LLC #9009614

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27815 Astoria Brook Ln

Katy, TX 77494 USA

901 S Mopac Expwy, Bldg 2, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78746 | 512.474.5557Texas Real Estate Commission

Consumer Protection Notice Texas Real Estate Commission Information About Brokerage Services Reliance Retail, LLC #603091

Texas RS, LLC #9003193 | RESOLUT RE Is Licensed In Louisiana #0995694083