Buy, Sell, & Lease Industrial Space in Des Plaines

Des Plaines, IL, is one of the most strategically located industrial submarkets in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. With direct access to I-90, I-294, and O’Hare International Airport, Des Plaines offers unmatched logistical connectivity for companies involved in manufacturing, warehousing, air freight, and last-mile delivery.

The industrial real estate market in Des Plaines is diverse and well-developed, offering everything from small-bay warehouses and flex spaces to larger distribution facilities and air cargo-ready properties. For businesses seeking proximity to both downtown Chicago and national transit hubs, Des Plaines provides the ideal mix of accessibility, infrastructure, and workforce availability.

Whether you’re looking to buy an owner-occupied facility, lease efficient warehouse space, or sell an industrial asset, Des Plaines is a high-demand market with strong long-term fundamentals. With a business-friendly local government, multimodal transportation options, and continued investment in industrial redevelopment, Des Plaines remains a smart and strategic choice for industrial occupiers and investors alike.

Meet Our Des Plaines 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

How We Serve Your Industrial Real Estate Needs in Des Plaines

Our agents do more than open doors, they serve as strategic partners throughout every stage of your industrial real estate journey in Des Plaines.

Access Off-Market Opportunities:
Des Plaines’ industrial market is highly sought-after due to its proximity to O’Hare International Airport, I-90, I-294, and a dense logistics network. As a result, many premium industrial properties never hit the open market. Our team maintains trusted relationships with local owners, developers, and operators, giving you exclusive access to off-market deals, especially valuable if you’re looking to buy or lease industrial space in this competitive submarket.

Negotiate Favorable Terms:
With strong demand from logistics companies, freight operators, and e-commerce users, Des Plaines can be a fast-moving and competitive market. We help you navigate this environment by negotiating flexible lease terms, competitive pricing, and value-added concessions such as tenant improvement allowances, early occupancy, or expansion options.

Navigate Zoning and Permitting Challenges:
Des Plaines includes both older industrial zones and newly redeveloped areas near O’Hare and along the I-90 corridor. Our team understands local zoning requirements and municipal processes, helping you manage compliance, permitting, and site-specific challenges, minimizing delays and maximizing efficiency.

Deliver Real-Time Market Insights:
As one of the most dynamic industrial markets in Chicagoland, Des Plaines requires timely, data-backed decision-making. We continuously track vacancy rates, rental trends, transportation upgrades, and development activity to keep you ahead of market shifts. Whether you’re leasing space, purchasing an asset, or preparing to sell, our insights ensure your strategy is built on current, actionable intelligence.

Buying Industrial Space in Des Plaines

Why Buy Industrial Real Estate in Des Plaines?

Des Plaines is a premier destination for industrial real estate buyers who want immediate access to Chicago’s transportation network, a strong labor force, and a thriving logistics ecosystem. Located just northwest of the city and adjacent to O’Hare International Airport, Des Plaines offers unbeatable proximity to I-90, I-294, major rail lines, and global air freight operations—making it an ideal location for companies in warehousing, light manufacturing, and e-commerce fulfillment.

With a diverse inventory of industrial properties—ranging from small-bay flex buildings to mid-size distribution centers and specialized air cargo facilities—Des Plaines is well-suited for both owner-users and investors. Its infrastructure, accessibility, and stable economic base continue to drive strong industrial demand and long-term value appreciation.

Key Considerations for Des Plaines Industrial Buyers

Proximity to Transportation:
Des Plaines offers direct access to I-90, I-294, and the Tri-State Tollway, along with proximity to O’Hare’s global cargo terminals. Ensure the property supports your specific logistical needs—whether you rely on trucking, rail, or air freight.

Zoning and Compliance:
Industrial properties in Des Plaines are governed by specific zoning codes based on use, lot size, and building type. Whether you’re in manufacturing, warehousing, or distribution, it’s critical to verify that your intended use aligns with local zoning regulations and that the property complies with applicable codes.

Property Condition:
Many industrial buildings in Des Plaines have been well maintained or recently upgraded, but it’s still important to assess key infrastructure such as loading docks, roofing, electrical capacity, and HVAC systems. We help you evaluate improvement needs and understand the total cost of ownership.

Room for Expansion:
Des Plaines offers both infill redevelopment sites and industrial parks with room to grow. If your business anticipates future expansion, focus on properties with flexible footprints or adjacent parcels that support scalability.

Selling Industrial Space in Des Plaines

Maximizing the Value of Your Industrial Property

Selling industrial property in Des Plaines offers an opportunity to capitalize on one of Chicagoland’s most in-demand logistics and distribution submarkets. With its unmatched proximity to O’Hare International Airport, direct access to I-90 and I-294, and a strong industrial tenant base, Des Plaines continues to attract serious interest from manufacturers, e-commerce users, and freight-focused operators.

Our team specializes in helping Des Plaines property owners maximize value through strategic positioning, in-depth market knowledge, and targeted buyer outreach. We maintain strong relationships with a wide network of active industrial buyers—including owner-users, private investors, and institutional capital—ensuring your property reaches the right audience and sells quickly at the best possible terms.

Steps to Selling Industrial Space in Des Plaines

Property Evaluation:
We start with a detailed property evaluation, analyzing comparable sales in Des Plaines and the surrounding O’Hare and northwest industrial corridor. We consider location, zoning, access, building condition, and market dynamics to establish a competitive and data-driven asking price.

Effective Marketing:
Our marketing strategy is customized to highlight the unique advantages of your Des Plaines asset—whether it’s proximity to O’Hare, access to tollways, or specialized features like dock-high loading or trailer parking. We use digital platforms, targeted outreach, and our proprietary buyer database to generate qualified leads and accelerate deal velocity.

Negotiation and Closing:
From initial offers to final paperwork, we manage every step of the sale process. Our experienced brokers negotiate on your behalf to secure favorable deal terms, then coordinate with attorneys, title companies, and buyers to ensure a smooth, efficient closing. Our goal is to maximize your return and minimize your time on market.

Leasing Industrial Space in Des Plaines

Flexible Leasing Options for Growing Businesses

Leasing industrial space in Des Plaines gives businesses a unique opportunity to scale operations in a high-demand, logistics-focused market with immediate access to O’Hare International Airport, I-90, and I-294. Whether you’re seeking a small warehouse, light manufacturing space, or a mid-size distribution center, Des Plaines offers a broad range of leasing options designed to support operational efficiency and future growth.

As part of the O’Hare submarket—one of the most active industrial corridors in the Midwest—Des Plaines combines strategic infrastructure with business-friendly policies and a well-developed inventory of industrial properties. Many spaces feature desirable amenities like high clear heights, heavy power, dock and drive-in loading, and adaptable buildouts ideal for logistics, e-commerce, aerospace, and food distribution users.

Des Plaines Leasing Considerations

Lease Structure:
Des Plaines properties may be offered under gross, modified gross, or triple-net (NNN) leases. Each option comes with different responsibilities for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. We help you structure the right lease for your financial and operational goals.

Lease Term:
Whether your business prioritizes long-term cost stability or short-term flexibility, Des Plaines offers lease terms that can adapt to your growth plan. We assist in reviewing renewal options, rent escalations, and early termination clauses to protect your business over time.

Tenant Improvements:
Many Des Plaines landlords are willing to provide tenant improvement (TI) allowances for upgrades such as office buildouts, warehouse reconfigurations, racking systems, and HVAC or electrical enhancements. We work to ensure your space is delivered turnkey and ready for productivity on day one.

Expansion Opportunities:
Des Plaines has several multitenant buildings and industrial parks with room for growth. If your business anticipates scaling, we help secure lease agreements that allow for future expansion—either within the same building or on adjacent properties under the same ownership.

Why Work with Our Team in Des Plaines

Local Market Expertise

Navigating the industrial real estate landscape in Des Plaines requires more than just general market knowledge—it demands a deep understanding of local zoning ordinances, building inventory near O’Hare, and the nuances of the broader O’Hare industrial corridor. Our team specializes in Des Plaines and the surrounding northwest suburbs, helping businesses buy, sell, and lease industrial space with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re targeting a warehouse near the airport, a last-mile distribution center, or a light manufacturing facility, we guide you through the entire process to ensure alignment with your operational needs.

Access to Off-Market Opportunities

Des Plaines is a high-demand market with limited availability, and many of the best industrial opportunities are never publicly listed. Through our extensive network of property owners, investors, and developers active in the O’Hare and Des Plaines corridor, we provide access to exclusive off-market deals. This insider access gives our clients a competitive edge in securing high-quality space before it becomes widely available.

Data-Driven Insights

We closely monitor the Des Plaines industrial market, including leasing trends, vacancy rates, infrastructure upgrades, and zoning changes. Our data-driven approach allows us to deliver real-time insights so you can make confident, well-informed decisions, whether you’re leasing warehouse space, acquiring an asset, or preparing a property for sale.

We’re Here to Help

From first-time buyers to institutional investors and growing logistics companies, our team is here to support your goals with local expertise, strategic insight, and hands-on service. If you’re looking to navigate the Des Plaines industrial market with precision, we’re ready to be your trusted partner.

Amenities in Des Plaines

Des Plaines offers the rare combination of big-city access and suburban comfort, making it one of the most attractive industrial and commercial hubs in the northwest Chicago suburbs. With excellent transportation, a thriving business community, and a strong quality of life, Des Plaines is a smart choice for industrial users and investors alike. Key highlights include:

Downtown Des Plaines:
A revitalized downtown area with restaurants, shops, cafes, and a Metra station that provides direct access to downtown Chicago. The walkable district is ideal for employees and visiting clients alike, and it adds significant appeal for businesses operating nearby.

O’Hare International Airport:
Located just minutes away, O’Hare provides world-class logistics and air freight access for businesses engaged in national and international distribution. This proximity gives Des Plaines a unique edge for industrial tenants requiring quick turnaround and shipping efficiency.

Lake Park & Des Plaines River Trail:
Lake Park offers green space, walking trails, and recreational amenities, while the nearby Des Plaines River Trail provides a scenic outlet for biking, walking, and outdoor activity—enhancing the work-life balance for employees and residents.

Des Plaines Theatre:
A historic entertainment venue brought back to life, now hosting live music, comedy, and community events. It’s a symbol of Des Plaines’ investment in culture, lifestyle, and placemaking—all of which contribute to a vibrant local economy.

Des Plaines’ combination of logistical strength, business infrastructure, and local amenities makes it a leading destination for industrial operations in Chicagoland. Whether you’re looking to lease warehouse space, purchase industrial property, or sell an existing facility, Van Vlissingen & Co. is here to guide you through the Des Plaines market with confidence.

Contact Us Today

Ready to explore industrial real estate opportunities in Des Plaines, IL? Our team of commercial real estate agents and property management professionals is ready to help. Contact Van Vlissingen & Co. today to start your next move.