Buy, Sell & Lease Industrial Space in Chicago

Chicago, the largest city in Illinois and a global hub for commerce and industry, boasts one of the world’s most dynamic industrial real estate markets. With its unparalleled access to major transportation networks such as O’Hare International Airport, I-90, I-294, and the Illinois Tollway system, the Chicago industrial space market is a critical logistics and distribution center for businesses operating across the United States and beyond.

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or lease industrial space, Chicago offers significant opportunities.

Meet Our Chicago Industrial Space Experts

As Vice President of Sales and Leasing, Gordon Lamphere J.D. guides our industrial real estate brokerage team.

Gordon’s advice is regularly featured in local and national press, and industry leaders recognize him as an industrial real estate expert.

He hosts Chicagoland’s Top Commercial Real Estate Podcast (The Real Finds Podcast) and is globally recognized for his industrial transactional and commercial real estate marketing expertise.

• Listen To The Podcast
• Follow Gordon’s Socials

Our agents provide strategic support, offering:

• Access to off-market opportunities: Many of Chicago’s premier industrial properties are not publicly listed. We connect you with exclusive deals.
• Negotiation of favorable terms: From pricing to tenant improvements, we ensure you secure the most advantageous terms.
• Expertise in zoning and regulations: We navigate complex zoning requirements to streamline your transactions and ensure compliance.
• Data-driven insights: Our team provides up-to-date market trends to help you make informed decisions.

Buying Industrial Space in Chicago

Owning industrial space in Chicago offers not just stability and operational control but also the chance to establish a lasting presence in one of the most important industrial markets globally. Whether you’re a manufacturer, distributor, or logistics company, owning industrial property in Chicago positions your business to capitalize on the city’s unparalleled connectivity and vibrant economy. With a wide variety of industrial properties, from state-of-the-art warehouses to versatile manufacturing facilities, Chicago offers opportunities for businesses of all sizes and industries.

Key Considerations for Buyers

• Transportation Access: Chicago’s strategic location near major highways, rail systems, and O’Hare International Airport ensures seamless movement of goods across the country and around the world. Access to efficient transportation is a critical factor for maintaining supply chain operations and reducing logistics costs.
• Zoning Compliance: Industrial properties in Chicago vary in their permitted uses, so it’s essential to confirm that your intended activities align with local zoning regulations. Working with professionals who understand the city’s zoning requirements can streamline the acquisition process.
• Property Condition: From structural integrity to utility capacities, evaluating a property’s current state is essential for determining its suitability and identifying any potential renovation or upgrade costs.
• Future Growth: Investing in a property that allows for expansion ensures your operations can scale as your business grows. Look for facilities with extra acreage, flexible layouts, or room for additional construction.
• Economic Incentives: Chicago and the state of Illinois often offer incentives for businesses investing in industrial properties, such as tax breaks or grants. These opportunities can help reduce costs and increase return on investment.

Owning industrial space in Chicago provides the dual benefits of operational stability and long-term equity growth in one of the country’s most vibrant industrial markets.

Selling Industrial Space in Chicago

The demand for industrial space in Chicago is at an all-time high, driven by the city’s prominence as a global logistics hub and its business-friendly infrastructure. Whether you’re selling a warehouse, a manufacturing plant, or a logistics center, there are numerous opportunities to attract competitive offers and maximize your return on investment.

Strategies For Selling Chicago Properties

• Comprehensive Property Analysis: A thorough evaluation of your property is the first step to understanding its market potential. We assess factors such as square footage, location, infrastructure, and market demand to determine an optimal pricing strategy.
• Targeted Marketing Strategy: Selling industrial space in Chicago requires a strategic approach to reach potential buyers effectively. Our marketing includes listing your property on top commercial real estate platforms, leveraging targeted digital advertising, and utilizing our vast network of industry connections.
• Highlighting Key Features: Emphasizing your property’s unique strengths—such as proximity to transportation hubs, energy efficiency, or specialized equipment—helps capture buyer interest and can justify a premium price.
• Negotiation and Closing Support: Navigating the complexities of industrial property sales requires expertise. Our team works diligently to secure favorable terms, handle due diligence, and ensure a smooth transaction from start to finish.
• Access to Off-Market Buyers: Many industrial property transactions occur off-market, where exclusive networks and connections are key. We connect you with vetted buyers actively seeking opportunities in Chicago.

Selling your industrial property in Chicago is more than just a transaction—it’s about maximizing value in a highly competitive market. Our experts ensure your property stands out and attracts serious, qualified buyers.

Leasing Industrial Space in Chicago

Leasing industrial space in Chicago is a flexible solution for businesses looking to expand or establish operations without the upfront commitment of property ownership. Chicago’s leasing market is one of the most diverse in the country, offering options that range from small warehouses to large-scale distribution centers and cutting-edge manufacturing facilities.

Key Chicago Industrial Leasing Considerations

• Lease Types: Industrial leases come in various forms, including gross leases, net leases, and triple-net (NNN) leases. Understanding the differences is crucial to choosing the best option for your business. NNN leases, for instance, shift operational costs like property taxes, insurance, and maintenance to tenants, which may impact your budgeting.
• Tenant Improvements: Negotiating for tenant improvement allowances allows businesses to tailor the leased space to their specific needs. This is especially important for businesses requiring specialized equipment or unique layouts.
• Lease Duration: Lease terms can vary significantly, from short-term agreements for project-based operations to long-term leases for permanent facilities. Determining the ideal duration requires balancing flexibility with the stability your business needs.
• Expansion Opportunities: Consider spaces with room to grow. Many landlords offer terms that allow tenants to expand within the same property or negotiate additional square footage as business needs evolve.
• Location and Accessibility: Industrial leasing in Chicago offers unparalleled location advantages. Choose a facility close to major highways, railroads, or airports to ensure efficient operations and supply chain management.
• Incentives and Subsidies: Chicago’s economic development programs often include incentives for businesses leasing industrial space, such as reduced rents or grants for specific industries.

Leasing industrial space in Chicago allows businesses to access premium facilities in a globally connected market without the upfront costs of ownership. With a range of flexible leasing options, Chicago is the ideal location to grow your business operations.

Points of Interest in Chicago

Chicago is not only a global industrial hub but also a vibrant city rich in cultural, recreational, and natural attractions that enhance its appeal for businesses and employees alike.

Key Points of Interest Include:

• Millennium Park: A renowned public space featuring art installations, gardens, and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture.
• Navy Pier: A popular destination offering entertainment, dining, and panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
• The Art Institute of Chicago: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., housing an extensive collection of artwork.
• Chicago Riverwalk: A scenic promenade along the Chicago River, featuring restaurants, bars, and recreational activities.
• Lincoln Park: A vast green space offering a zoo, conservatory, and numerous recreational facilities.
• Museum of Science and Industry: One of the largest science museums in the world, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Chicago’s combination of business resources and community-focused amenities makes it an exceptional location for industrial operations.

Why Work with Our Team in Chicago

Local Expertise and Market Knowledge

Navigating the industrial real estate market in Chicago requires a deep understanding of zoning laws, property values, and market trends. Our team specializes in assisting businesses to buy, sell, and lease industrial space in Chicago and the surrounding areas. With extensive local expertise, we ensure your real estate decisions align with your business goals.

Access to Off-Market Opportunities

Some of the most sought-after industrial properties in Chicago are not publicly listed. Through our vast network of sellers, landlords, and developers, we connect you with exclusive off-market opportunities that give you an edge in this competitive market.

Data-Driven Insights

Our team monitors Chicago’s industrial market trends continuously to provide up-to-date, accurate information. These insights ensure you can make informed decisions that are tailored to your unique needs and business strategy.

Understanding Chicago’s Neighborhoods

Contact Us Today

If you’re ready to explore industrial real estate opportunities in Chicago, our Chicago Commercial Real Estate Agents can help. Whether you’re buying, selling, or leasing industrial space, our agents offer personalized solutions to add value to your business. Contact us today to learn how our commercial property management team and real estate experts in Chicago can support your goals.