Industrial and Warehouse Brokers Serving Chicago and Chicagoland
Van Vlissingen and Co. represents industrial tenants, buyers, and landlords across Chicago and Chicagoland. Gordon Lamphere and our industrial team focus on tenant representation from 10,000 to 250,000 square feet and leasing, sales, and property management from $1,000,000 to $50,000,000. Van Vlissingen and Co. performs more than 100 commercial real estate transactions annually, and our team has completed over $3 billion in transaction volume.
We have operated continuously in Chicagoland commercial real estate since 1879, and we developed and continue to manage industrial parks across Lake and Cook Counties.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or lease industrial space, Chicago offers significant opportunities.
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Meet Our Chicago Industrial Space Experts
As Vice President of Sales & Leasing, Gordon Lamphere, J.D. leads Van Vlissingen and Co.’s industrial brokerage team. Ranked Chicagoland’s #1 commercial real estate broker for 2026 by multiple industry publications, with transaction activity independently verified through Crexi, Gordon and his team close 100+ transactions annually. His advice is regularly featured in local and national press, and he hosts The Real Finds Podcast, Chicagoland’s leading commercial real estate podcast.
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.
Chicago’s Opportunities and Challenges
The Chicago industrial real estate market is full of opportunities for those who know how to seize them, but it’s also fraught with challenges that can derail even seasoned investors. The region offers proximity to major consumer markets, a skilled workforce, and one of the nation’s best transportation infrastructures. However, the high demand for space, along with zoning restrictions, varying tax rates, and regulatory complexities, makes it essential to have a knowledgeable partner on your side to buy industrial space, sell industrial space, or lease industrial space in this region.
Whether you’re looking at Cook County for its direct access to Chicago’s urban markets, DuPage County for its logistics capabilities, or even expanding northward into Wisconsin for lower taxes, our agents provide the local expertise and insider access that make all the difference for those seeking to buy, sell, or lease industrial space.
The Industrial Real Estate Boom in Chicagoland
Why Chicagoland is a Logistics Powerhouse
One of the primary reasons businesses flock to Chicagoland is its unmatched access to transportation and logistics networks. Situated at the crossroads of several major interstate highways, and home to O’Hare International Airport, the area serves as a major distribution center for goods moving across the country. Rail lines from major providers like Union Pacific and CSX crisscross the region, making it a haven for manufacturers, distributors, and logistics companies.
This makes Chicagoland an ideal market for those looking to buy industrial space for manufacturing or distribution purposes or lease industrial space for warehousing and logistics needs.
Communities That Drive Industrial Growth
Each county in Chicagoland offers distinct advantages, catering to different business needs. Below is a deeper look at the areas driving industrial real estate growth, providing excellent opportunities for businesses looking to buy industrial space, sell industrial space, or lease industrial space.
Key Areas In Greater Chicagoland For Industrial Real Estate
Overview: Lake County, located in the northern part of the Chicagoland region, has been expanding rapidly as businesses look to take advantage of more affordable land and access to both the Wisconsin border and Illinois’ transportation infrastructure. For those that want to buy industrial space or lease industrial space, Lake County offers excellent value.
Why Choose Lake County?
- Affordability: Prices for industrial space in Lake County are typically lower than in Cook County, making it attractive to small and midsize businesses seeking to buy industrial space or lease industrial space.
- Room for Growth: With land still available for development, it offers opportunities for new industrial projects, particularly for distribution centers looking to buy industrial space.
- Economic Development Group Affiliation: Lake County Partners
Overview: DuPage County is home to some of the region’s most thriving industrial markets. Proximity to O’Hare International Airport, the I-88 corridor, and major logistics hubs makes it a prime location for companies in need of fast, efficient transportation solutions. If you’re looking to buy industrial space or lease industrial space, DuPage County offers some of the best options for growth.
Why Choose DuPage County?
- Established Infrastructure: DuPage boasts excellent highway access, with key corridors feeding into Chicago and the rest of the Midwest. This makes it an attractive location for businesses wanting to lease or buy industrial space.
- Talent Pool: DuPage County offers access to a highly educated workforce, making it ideal for companies seeking to buy industrial space and establish long-term operations.
- Economic Development Group Affiliation: Choose DuPage
Overview: As the most populous county in the region, Cook County is the industrial heart of Chicagoland. Its proximity to Chicago’s urban core and superior infrastructure make it a magnet for large-scale industrial developments. If you’re looking to lease industrial space or buy industrial space close to the city, Cook County should be a top consideration.
Why Choose Cook County?
- Urban Market Access: Businesses in Cook County can tap into the large Chicago consumer base, making it ideal for those looking to buy industrial space or lease industrial space for warehousing or manufacturing.
- Economic Development Group Affiliation: World Business Chicago
Find Your Ideal Industrial Space in Chicagoland
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or lease industrial space, success in the Chicagoland market requires local expertise, strategic planning, and access to the right opportunities. Download our comprehensive action plans today, or contact one of our agents to explore exclusive opportunities tailored to your needs.
Areas Our Industrial Experts Serve
Addison, IL
Algonquin, IL
Alsip, IL
Antioch, IL
Arlington Heights, IL
Aurora, IL
Barrington, IL
Bartlett, IL
Bellwood, IL
Bensenville, IL
Berkeley, IL
Berwyn, IL
Bloomingdale, IL
Blue Island, IL
Bridgeview, IL
Broadview, IL
Brookfield, IL
Buffalo Grove, IL
Burbank, IL
Calumet City, IL
Carol Stream, IL
Cary, IL
Chicago Heights, IL
Chicago Ridge, IL
Chicago, IL
Cicero, IL
Clarendon Hills, IL
Country Club Hills, IL
Crystal Lake, IL
Darien, IL
Deerfield, IL
Des Plaines, IL
Dolton, IL
Downers Grove, IL
Elk Grove Village, IL
Elmhurst, IL
Elmwood Park, IL
Eola, IL
Evanston, IL
Evergreen Park, IL
Flossmoor, IL
Forest Park, IL
Fort Sheridan, IL
Fox Lake, IL
Fox River Grove, IL
Fox Valley, IL
Franklin Park, IL
Glen Ellyn, IL
Glencoe, IL
Glendale Heights, IL
Glenview, IL
Glenwood, IL
Golf, IL
Grayslake, IL
Great Lakes, IL
Gurnee, IL
Hanover Park, IL
Harvard, IL
Harvey, IL
Harwood Heights, IL
Hazel Crest, IL
Hebron, IL
Hickory Hills, IL
Highland Park, IL
Highwood, IL
Hillside, IL
Hines, IL
Hinsdale, IL
Hoffman Estates, IL
Hometown, IL
Homewood, IL
Huntley, IL
Ingleside, IL
Island Lake, IL
Itasca, IL
Justice, IL
Kenilworth, IL
La Grange Park, IL
La Grange, IL
Lake Bluff, IL
Lake Forest, IL
Lake In The Hills, IL
Lake Villa, IL
Lake Zurich, IL
Lansing, IL
Lemont, IL
Libertyville, IL
Lincolnshire, IL
Lincolnwood, IL
Lisle, IL
Lombard, IL
Lyons, IL
Marengo, IL
Markham, IL
Matteson, IL
Maywood, IL
Mchenry, IL
Medinah, IL
Melrose Park, IL
Midlothian, IL
Morton Grove, IL
Mount Prospect, IL
Mundelein, IL
Naperville, IL
Niles, IL
North Chicago, IL
Northbrook, IL
Oak Brook, IL
Oak Forest, IL
Oak Lawn, IL
Oak Park, IL
Olympia Fields, IL
Orland Park, IL
Palatine, IL
Palos Heights, IL
Palos Hills, IL
Palos Park, IL
Park Forest, IL
Park Ridge, IL
Posen, IL
Prospect Heights, IL
Richmond, IL
Richton Park, IL
Ringwood, IL
River Forest, IL
River Grove, IL
Riverdale, IL
Riverside, IL
Robbins, IL
Rolling Meadows, IL
Roselle, IL
Round Lake, IL
Russell, IL
Schaumburg, IL
Schiller Park, IL
Skokie, IL
South Holland, IL
Spring Grove, IL
Steger, IL
Stone Park, IL
Streamwood, IL
Summit Argo, IL
Techny, IL
Thornton, IL
Tinley Park, IL
Union, IL
Vernon Hills, IL
Villa Park, IL
Wadsworth, IL
Warrenville, IL
Wauconda, IL
Waukegan, IL
Wayne, IL
West Chicago, IL
Westchester, IL
Western Springs, IL
Westmont, IL
Wheaton, IL
Wheeling, IL
Willow Springs, IL
Willowbrook, IL
Wilmette, IL
Winfield, IL
Winnetka, IL
Winthrop Harbor, IL
Wonder Lake, IL
Wood Dale, IL
Woodridge, IL
Woodstock, IL
Worth, IL
Zion, IL
Bassett, WI
Benet Lake, WI
Bristol, WI
Burlington, WI
Caledonia, WI
Camp Lake, WI
Darien, WI
Delavan, WI
East Troy, WI
Elkhorn, WI
Fontana, WI
Franksville, WI
Genoa City, WI
Kansasville, WI
Kenosha, WI
Lake Geneva, WI
Mount Pleasant, WI
New Munster, WI
Pell Lake, WI
Pleasant Prairie, WI
Powers Lake, WI
Racine, WI
Rochester, WI
Salem, WI
Sharon, WI
Silver Lake, WI
Somers, WI
Springfield, WI
Sturtevant, WI
Trevor, WI
Twin Lakes, WI
Union Grove, WI
Walworth, WI
Waterford, WI
Whitewater, WI
Williams Bay, WI
Wilmot, WI
Zenda, WI
Chicago Industrial Real Estate FAQs
What size industrial requirements does Van Vlissingen and Co. handle in Chicago?
Our industrial tenant representation practice covers requirements from 10,000 to 250,000 square feet. On the leasing, sales, and property management side we handle industrial assets from $1,000,000 to $50,000,000, including warehouse, distribution, manufacturing, flex, and industrial park portfolios.
Where is industrial and warehouse space located in Chicagoland?
Industrial inventory concentrates in the O’Hare submarket around Elk Grove Village, Bensenville, and Des Plaines, along the I-55 and I-80 corridors, in the I-94 corridor through Lake County toward the Wisconsin border, and in the DuPage County logistics corridor. Each submarket trades on different terms, and we maintain dedicated market pages for more than sixty communities.
Do you handle industrial investment sales in Chicago?
Yes. We broker industrial investment sales from $1,000,000 to $50,000,000, including single-tenant net lease assets, multi-tenant flex, and industrial park portfolios. We work with 1031 exchange buyers against identification and closing deadlines, and underwrite against comparables from transactions we negotiated.
What specifications matter most for Chicago warehouse space?
Clear height, dock-to-door ratio, trailer parking, column spacing, power capacity, and floor load, alongside truck access and proximity to the interstate network. Two buildings of identical square footage can serve entirely different tenants depending on those specifications.
Who is the best industrial real estate broker in Chicago?
Choose a brokerage with closed transactions in your specific submarket, not just regional coverage. Van Vlissingen and Co. performs more than 100 commercial real estate transactions annually, and our team has completed over $3 billion in transaction volume. The firm has operated in Chicagoland commercial real estate since 1879 and has developed and continues to manage industrial parks across Lake and Cook Counties. Gordon Lamphere leads the industrial practice.
Do you manage industrial property in Chicago?
Yes. We provide comprehensive property management for industrial assets, covering lease administration, CAM reconciliation, building systems and dock maintenance, vendor oversight, and monthly financial reporting.
What Is the Difference Between Industrial and Warehouse Space in Chicago?
The terms overlap, and in practice most Chicagoland listings described as warehouse space are a subset of industrial. Industrial covers warehouse and distribution, manufacturing, flex, and cold storage. Warehouse specifically means space configured for storage and throughput — clear height, dock-to-door ratio, trailer parking, and column spacing matter more than office finish.
When a requirement is described as warehouse space, we underwrite it on those specifications rather than on square footage alone. A 100,000 square foot building with 18-foot clear height and four docks is a very different asset from the same footprint at 32-foot clear with thirty docks, and they do not compete for the same tenant.