Chicago-based RSK Real Estate Partners has announced plans to develop a 156-unit build-to-rent (BTR) duplex community in Katy, Texas, marking a significant addition to the region’s growing rental housing market. The project, situated on a 9.37-acre site near the Market at Katy Park, will feature 103 three-bedroom and 53 two-bedroom duplexes, each averaging 1,600 square feet. Construction is slated to commence later this year, with the first units expected to be available by mid-2026 .
Located on Galileo Way with direct access to Morton Road, the development offers strategic connectivity in northwest Katy, an area experiencing rapid growth. The site is adjacent to The Oaks at Katy Park, a recently opened 348-unit multifamily complex currently undergoing lease-up. The surrounding area, known for the 100-acre Katy Park with its 32 sports fields, is also seeing significant residential expansion, with plans for an additional 25,000 single-family homes .
RSK Real Estate Partners specializes in ground-up construction of stylish, middle-income residential housing communities, including single-family homes, townhomes, and duplexes. The company’s approach focuses on delivering high-quality housing that remains cost-effective for middle-income renters. By controlling every part of the construction process and designing higher-density developments with shared open spaces, RSK aims to provide affordable housing options in growing markets .
The Katy project aligns with RSK’s 5|5|5 Initiative, which targets delivering 5,000 units in five different markets over the next five years. This initiative focuses on markets that have experienced significant growth in rent, population, and commercial development, including Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Raleigh, and Orlando .
The build-to-rent model has gained traction in the Houston area, with several developers launching similar projects to meet the growing demand for rental housing. For instance, Greystar’s Summerwell Sunterra in Katy is a 156-unit BTR community offering three- and four-bedroom homes with access to amenities like a Crystal Lagoon, clubhouse, and fitness center . Similarly, Tricon Residential’s Tricon Peek Road development features 175 detached rental homes with modern features and shared amenities .
Industry experts note that the BTR model addresses the needs of renters seeking single-family living without the commitment of homeownership. Bruce McClenny, industry principal for MRI ApartmentData, stated, “It’s something that all of a sudden has gained popularity and addresses the needs of people in search of housing to rent.” He added that BTR communities offer residents the feel of a single-family home in suburbia at an affordable rental price .
As the Katy area continues to expand, developments like RSK’s duplex community are poised to play a crucial role in providing diverse housing options for the growing population. With construction set to begin later this year, the project is expected to contribute significantly to the region’s rental housing inventory by mid-2026.