Turning opportunities into results through a rigorous, detail-oriented process.
At Uplift Development Group, we specialize in identifying, developing, acquiring, and managing high-performing self-storage and flex-space assets in high-growth markets across the United States. With more than two decades of real estate development experience, we turn opportunities into results through a rigorous, detail-oriented process that filters more than 350 deals a year — ultimately pursuing just 10 or so of the most promising.
Our approach is deliberate. We apply a multi-tiered Go/No-Go review process that includes internal evaluation, on-the-ground inspections, proprietary software tools, third-party analysis, and conservative budgeting. It's this level of scrutiny that empowers us to execute fundamentally strong investments time and time again.
We also maintain deep relationships in the industry — often giving us first look at off-market deals that never hit the open market. Our reputation is everything, and it's built on honesty, transparency, and our ability to close.
As Uplift Self Storage continues to scale, we actively seek out:
We focus on markets with high organic traffic, good visibility, and strong residential growth near commercial corridors. Whether it's ground-up builds or value-add acquisitions, we're laser-focused on creating assets that generate powerful, sustainable cash flow.
Lee and Brandon joined forces to launch GYS Development, rooted in a shared vision of building something meaningful in the self-storage space. What started with a few developments and acquisitions per year quickly evolved into a thriving venture.
The duo brought in David Harvey and launched GYS General Contracting, a full-service general contracting company that brought their developments — and those of their clients — to life with in-house control and execution.
The company was highlighted in Construction Today magazine for the early successes of its vertically integrated services — affirming the strength of their development and construction model.
A steady pace of 2–3 developments and 1–3 acquisitions per year, primarily in Texas and Colorado. By 2019, their disciplined approach had built a strong, private portfolio of 15 institutional-quality storage assets.
The team secured a 36-property, 2M+ square foot portfolio in Texas. This milestone led to a partnership with National Storage Affiliates (NSA) and the formation of the Blue Sky brand, elevating them into the REIT space.
Under Blue Sky, they scaled rapidly to 41 properties across multiple states. In July 2024, NSA acquired the entire Blue Sky portfolio — a landmark $438 million+ exit marking years of calculated growth.
Post-acquisition, the company re-emerged as Uplift Self Storage, focusing on its 18 privately held properties — a refreshed brand reflecting a continued commitment to high-performance assets and an integrated approach.
From concept to completion, Uplift operates as a turnkey developer, owner, and operator — managing a portfolio of mostly Gen5 developments under 5 years old.
With plans to expand to 45+ properties, Uplift continues to target high-growth Sun Belt markets. Every development is more than a facility — it's a strategic investment in long-term performance.
Self-storage is one of the most attractive asset classes in commercial real estate today — backed by strong market fundamentals:
Successful projects across Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and Kansas — delivering a 40.81% average ROI and generating millions in investor wealth.
Elevate Your Portfolio With Uplift