Buy, Sell, & Lease Office Space in Lake Forest

Lake Forest, Illinois, is a prestigious North Shore community known for its blend of historic charm, affluent neighborhoods, and vibrant business environment. As commercial real estate agents with extensive knowledge of the Lake Forest area, we provide comprehensive services to help businesses and investors buy, sell, or lease office space in this sought-after location. This guide delves into the city’s key attributes, including its economy, local industries, and points of interest, to help you make informed decisions about your commercial real estate needs.

We're Here To Help

Why Choose Lake Forest for Office Space?

Located in Lake County, Lake Forest is an upscale suburban city known for its high quality of life, top-tier educational institutions, and beautiful natural landscapes. The city has a strong sense of community and offers an excellent mix of residential and commercial properties. Lake Forest’s strategic location on the North Shore, just 30 miles north of Chicago, makes it a prime spot for businesses looking to tap into both the suburban and urban markets.

Lake Forest is accessible via major highways, including I-94 and Route 41, and is serviced by the Metra commuter rail, providing easy access to downtown Chicago. The city’s well-maintained infrastructure and transportation networks make it convenient for employees and clients alike.

The Local Economy and Major Industries

Lake Forest boasts a robust economy supported by diverse industries. Major sectors in the area include healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and professional services. The city is home to several corporate headquarters, including Fortune 500 companies like Hospira and Tenneco, which contribute significantly to the local economy. The presence of these companies creates a demand for high-quality office space and a steady flow of economic activity, making Lake Forest an attractive location for businesses.

In addition to large corporations, Lake Forest has a thriving small business community. The city fosters entrepreneurship through various business-friendly initiatives and local support services. Lake Forest’s economic stability and affluent demographic profile offer a fertile environment for businesses of all sizes to thrive.

Office Space in Lake Forest: Buying, Selling, and Leasing Options

1. Buying Office Space in Lake Forest

Buying office space in Lake Forest offers several advantages, particularly for businesses looking to establish a long-term presence. Ownership allows companies to build equity, customize their workspace, and potentially generate rental income by leasing out unused portions of the property. Lake Forest’s office market includes a mix of modern and historic buildings, offering diverse options for buyers.

When buying office space in Lake Forest, it’s essential to consider factors like location, building amenities, and future growth prospects. Properties closer to major transportation hubs and commercial districts tend to command higher prices, but they also offer greater convenience and visibility. The city’s zoning regulations and historic preservation guidelines may also influence the types of properties available for purchase.

2. Selling Office Space in Lake Forest

Lake Forest’s market conditions can be favorable for property owners looking to sell office space, particularly due to the city’s strong demand for commercial real estate. Selling office space in Lake Forest can provide a lucrative return on investment, especially if the property is in a prime location or has been well-maintained.

A successful sale involves a strategic marketing approach, highlighting the property’s unique features, location benefits, and potential for business growth. Utilizing a commercial real estate agent with in-depth knowledge of the Lake Forest market can help sellers navigate the complexities of the transaction and attract qualified buyers.

3. Leasing Office Space in Lake Forest

Leasing office space is an ideal option for businesses seeking flexibility and lower upfront costs. Lake Forest offers a range of office leasing options, from small suites in shared office buildings to large corporate spaces in business parks. Leasing allows companies to occupy prime locations without the commitment of ownership and adapt their space needs as their business evolves.

When leasing office space in Lake Forest, tenants should consider lease terms, rental rates, and the property’s amenities. It’s also essential to evaluate the surrounding area, including nearby businesses, transportation options, and local amenities, to ensure the location aligns with the company’s needs and culture.

We're Here To Help

Why Our Agents Stand Out in Lake Forest

Our agents are at the forefront of modern office space trends, focusing on creating work environments that align with the evolving needs of businesses and employees in a market dominated by buyers and tenants. As companies adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, we help curate workspaces that support hybrid work models, ensuring spaces are adaptable, innovative, and future-proof. We specialize in repurposing older buildings into experiential workplaces that employees want to return to, turning distressed assets into competitive, desirable office spaces. We guide investors toward properties with robust tenancies, even in a market with an oversupply of space, ensuring long-term value and occupancy.

As Vice President of Sales and Leasing, Gordon Lamphere J.D. leads our office real estate brokerage team with a forward-thinking approach. His advice is regularly featured in local and national press, and industry leaders recognize him for his expertise in adapting office spaces to the changing market. Gordon hosts Chicagoland’s Top Commercial Real Estate Podcast (The Real Finds Podcast) and is globally recognized for his expertise in transactional and commercial real estate marketing. He is deeply involved in transforming office spaces into resilient and experiential workplaces that attract and retain employees, providing investors with stable, long-term tenancies in a buyer and tenant-driven market.

Our Agents Do More Than Show Office Space; They Act As Strategic Advisors Who Can:

  • Navigate the risks of a distressed market: Our agents specialize in working with distressed buyers, sellers, and tenants in a market where landlords face financial challenges. We assess the stability and financial health of properties to avoid potential pitfalls from landlord distress, ensuring a safe and viable option when you buy office space or lease office space.
  • Curate adaptable workspaces: In a market flooded with vacant spaces, we focus on creating office spaces that cater to hybrid work models and evolving workforce needs, ensuring spaces are flexible, resilient, and ready for future changes.
  • Access off-market opportunities: While vacancy rates are high, the best office properties with the right amenities and locations are still in demand. Our agents have access to a network of sellers, developers, and landlords that allow us to source exclusive, off-market deals.
  • Repurpose and rejuvenate older buildings: We specialize in transforming older, vacant office buildings into modern, experiential workplaces, helping owners and investors reposition assets in a market where traditional office space demand has declined.
  • Negotiate favorable terms: In today’s market, tenants and buyers have the upper hand. Our agents use their market knowledge to secure flexible terms, favorable pricing, and tenant improvement allowances, maximizing your value when you lease office space or buy office space.
  • Handle zoning and regulatory challenges: With changes in office use, zoning transitions are more relevant than ever. Our agents assist with transitions to other uses, such as industrial, residential, or retail, ensuring your property remains a valuable asset.

We're Here To Help

Lake County and the North Shore: The Broader Economic Context

Lake Forest is part of Lake County, one of Illinois’ most economically vibrant regions. Lake County has a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and professional services. The area is known for its highly educated workforce, with many residents holding advanced degrees. This skilled labor pool attracts businesses looking for talent and innovation.

The North Shore, which encompasses Lake Forest and neighboring communities like Highland Park, Lake Bluff, and Winnetka, is synonymous with affluence and economic stability. The region’s high median household income and strong consumer base make it an attractive location for businesses targeting upscale markets. The North Shore’s commercial real estate market is characterized by low vacancy rates and strong demand for office space, particularly in areas with easy access to transportation and amenities.

Points of Interest in Lake Forest

Lake Forest is rich in cultural, recreational, and historical attractions that enhance its appeal as a business location. Here are six key points of interest that make Lake Forest a desirable place to work and live:

Market Square: The heart of downtown Lake Forest, Market Square is a historic shopping district featuring a mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and professional services. Its charming architecture and pedestrian-friendly layout make it a popular destination for residents and visitors.

Lake Forest College: A private liberal arts college, Lake Forest College contributes to the city’s vibrant intellectual community. The college’s presence adds to the local workforce and offers opportunities for business partnerships and events.

Open Lands and Forest Preserves: Lake Forest is known for its commitment to preserving natural spaces. The city’s numerous open lands, parks, and forest preserves provide scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, enhancing the quality of life for residents and employees.

Lake Forest Beach: Situated along Lake Michigan, Lake Forest Beach offers stunning views and recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and picnicking. The beach is a local gem that enhances the city’s allure for businesses and their employees.

The Gorton Community Center: This cultural hub hosts a variety of events, including concerts, lectures, and community gatherings. The Gorton Community Center serves as a focal point for cultural enrichment and networking opportunities.

Conclusion

Lake Forest, with its strategic location, strong economy, and attractive quality of life, is a prime destination for businesses seeking office space on the North Shore. Whether you’re interested in buying, selling, or leasing office space, understanding the local market dynamics and economic landscape is crucial. By partnering with our commercial real estate agents, you can navigate the complexities of the market and find the right space to support your business’s growth and success.

We're Here To Help

Brokerage Services

Buyer’s Agent

Listing Agent

Tenant Representation

Management Services

Asset Management

Property Management

Development

We're Ready To Help
X We're Ready To Help