Your Trusted Houston Commercial Real Estate Brokerage

Viking Enterprise LLC is part of eXp Commercial, an agent-led, cloud-based commercial real estate brokerage with agents across the globe.

Your Trusted Katy / Fulshear & Houston Commercial Real Estate Brokerage

Viking Enterprise LLC is part of eXp Commercial, an agent-led, cloud-based commercial real estate brokerage with agents across the globe.

Looking to invest, buy, sell or lease? We can help.

Looking to invest, buy, sell or lease? We can help.

OUR FEATURED TENANTS & CLIENTS

eXp Commercial - Viking Enterprise Team's real estate network provides unparalleled commercial real estate services to Tenants and Landlords around the Katy- Houston area. Our knowledge, experience, and reputation sets us apart from many firms.


A commercial property owner might have various plans that would necessitate the services of a commercial real estate broker. Some of the common scenarios include:

1. Selling the Property: If the owner decides it’s time to sell the property, a commercial real estate broker can help determine the market value, market the property effectively, and negotiate with potential buyers to get the best possible price.

2. Leasing Space: For property owners looking to lease out part or all of their commercial space, a broker can help find suitable tenants, negotiate lease terms, and ensure the lease agreements meet all legal requirements and serve the owner’s best interests.

3. Acquiring More Properties: Owners looking to expand their portfolio would benefit from a broker's knowledge of the market, access to listings, and negotiation skills to secure additional properties at favorable terms.

4. Property Management: While not all brokers offer this service, some commercial real estate brokers or their affiliates offer property management services. This can be particularly appealing for owners who prefer a hands-off approach or are managing properties from a distance.

5. Market Analysis: Owners considering future developments, renovations, or rebranding of their property might engage a broker for a comprehensive market analysis. This helps in understanding current market trends, the demand for different types of spaces, and potential returns on investment for various strategies.

6. Refinancing: In situations where a property owner is looking to refinance their property, a commercial real estate broker can provide valuable insights into the property’s current market value, assist in gathering necessary documentation, and even help in finding the best financing options.

7. Partnership or Investment Opportunities: Owners interested in exploring partnerships, joint ventures, or seeking investors for expansion or development projects might use a broker to find and vet potential partners or investors.

8. Consulting on Zoning and Use Changes: When contemplating a change in the use of the property or dealing with zoning issues, a broker with experience in local regulations and the specific property type can provide guidance and strategic planning assistance.

9. Exit Strategy Planning: For owners looking to plan an exit strategy from their investment, whether it’s through a strategic sale or a gradual winding down of operations, brokers can provide market insights, timing advice, and valuation services to optimize the exit process.

In any of these scenarios, the expertise and services provided by a commercial real estate broker can save the property owner time and money, while also providing access to a wider network of potential buyers, tenants, and industry professionals. Give us a call today!

Reviews

🏢 Why Investors Are Betting on Office Market in 2025! 🏢

📢 🔥 Office Market Rebounds: Investors Seize Big Deals! 🔥 📢

February 03, 20254 min read

📢 🔥 Office Market Rebounds: Investors Seize Big Deals! 🔥 📢

🏢 Why Investors Are Betting on Office Market in 2025! 🏢

w years, Chicago’s office market has been, let’s just say… a tough sell. High interest rates, political uncertainty, and growing crime concerns had many investors sitting on the sidelines, watching buildings struggle with vacancies and dropping valuations. But now? Things are shifting—and fast.

In a surprising turn, we’ve seen four major office deals close or approach closing in just the past few weeks. And they aren’t just small transactions—these are deep-discount acquisitions that have caught the attention of opportunistic buyers. The key question: Why now? Let’s break it down.👇


💰 A Reset in Pricing—Bargain Hunting Begins

According to Andrew Brog of Brog Properties, the reset in Chicago office pricing is undeniable. His firm just scooped up a 16-story office building at 550 W. Washington Blvd. for a jaw-dropping $18.5M in all cash—a staggering 83% discount from the $111M price tag MetLife paid in 2013 when it was fully leased.

His take? Investors who aren’t from Chicago have an advantage because they aren’t emotionally attached to the pain of the last few years. They see the numbers, not just the struggles.

"You can't be from Chicago and be buying these buildings," Brog said.
"Or if you are from Chicago, you have to have never owned an office building in Chicago. And why? Because you can't see the opportunity, because you're going through pain.”

Translation: Outside investors smell blood in the water and they’re ready to pounce. 🦈


🏗️ The Value is in the Steel and Glass

Another big move? A joint venture between 601W Cos. and David Werner Real Estate Investments just picked up 303 E. Wacker for $63M—a whopping 66% drop from its 2018 price of $182M.

Ran Eliasaf of Northwind Group, which financed the deal, put it bluntly:

👉 “At a $35 per square foot basis, we feel comfortable with almost any building. Basically, the value of the glass and the steel is more.”

In simple terms: When a building’s price drops so low that the physical materials it’s made from are arguably worth more than the purchase price, investors start paying attention. 🤯


🏢 What’s Next for Chicago’s Office Market?

Despite these big plays, not every investor is convinced this is the start of a full-blown rebound. Eliasaf, for example, called his firm’s Wacker Drive deal a “one-off”—a rare moment where every factor aligned perfectly:

Strong location
Reliable cash flow
Good tenancy mix (no over-reliance on one major tenant)
Experienced buyers who have done multiple deals with Northwind before

That said, Brog is all-in on the idea that Chicago’s office market is on the verge of a comeback. He already owns two other office properties in the city and is looking for his next deal in the Central Loop. His strategy?

🚀 Upgrading amenities
🏗️ Doing build-to-suit deals
📉 Offering competitive rates thanks to the low-cost acquisition


📈 Why Some Investors Are Betting Big on Chicago

It’s not just about cheap deals—it’s about Chicago itself. Brog believes the city’s fundamentals remain strong:

🧑‍🎓 A steady pipeline of talent from Big Ten universities
🏙️ A prime location as the economic hub of the Midwest
🏢 A beautiful, architecturally rich office market that will always have demand

“Chicago is always going to be the center of the Midwest, the hub of the Midwest,” Brog said. “I don't think that's ever going to change.”


Final Thoughts: Is This the Bottom for Chicago’s Office Market?

If recent deals are any indicator, some investors believe we’ve hit rock bottom—and they’re making moves before prices climb again. The city’s office sector isn’t out of the woods yet, but for those with cash and a long-term vision, Chicago might just be the ultimate contrarian bet.

So, what do you think? Are investors making the right move by jumping in now, or is it still too soon to call a real recovery?

Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇💬

#ChicagoRealEstate #CRE #OfficeMarket #Investing #ChicagoCRE #CommercialRealEstate 🚀🏙️

Looking to buy, sell, or finance commercial real estate?

Work with an experienced Commercial Real Estate & Mortgage Broker you can trust!

Call me at 281-222-0433 today!

https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/

https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/houston-cre-navigator

https://www.commercialexchange.com/agent/653bf5593e3a3e1dcec275a6

http://expressoffers.com/[email protected]

© 2023-2024 Bill Rapp, Broker Associate, eXp Commercial Viking Enterprise Team

Chicago Office Market 2025 Commercial real estate investmentdistressed office propertiesCRE Market trendsChicago office buildings for saleChicago real estate opportunities
blog author image

Bill Rapp, CRE Broker

I am a Houston commercial broker, with residential experience, as well as a lending background. I have been in the real estate industry for 14 years and counting, and I have worked in many roles within the industry and each has given me a unique perspective of the industry as a whole. My dedication to clients is rooted in this industry knowledge, but also includes my desire to go the extra mile in networking to source off market opportunities for my clients. Me and my team at eXp Commercial have a cutting-edge technology package that gets the widest exposure for each transaction. eXp Commercial offers a nationwide network through which we can deliver the best exposure and professional advice to achieve our clients’ goals while also minimizing their risk. Clients appreciate my methodical method of discovery in our initial consultation. Through which we can get to know each other and their specific’s business’s needs and objectives on a granular level. Our processes help navigate each transaction and its potential pitfalls through to a successful outcome for our clients. It is my stated goal to provide our clients with extensive market analysis and expertise that fosters innovative solutions and rewarding commercial real estate opportunities.

Back to Blog

eXp Commercial - Viking Enterprise team real estate network provides unparalleled commercial real estate services to Tenants and Landlords around the greater Katy & Houston MSA area. Our knowledge, experience, and reputation sets us apart from many firms.

A commercial property owner might have various plans that would necessitate the services of a commercial real estate broker. Some of the common scenarios include:

1. Selling the Property: If the owner decides it’s time to sell the property, a commercial real estate broker can help determine the market value, market the property effectively, and negotiate with potential buyers to get the best possible price.

2. Leasing Space: For property owners looking to lease out part or all of their commercial space, a broker can help find suitable tenants, negotiate lease terms, and ensure the lease agreements meet all legal requirements and serve the owner’s best interests.

3. Acquiring More Properties: Owners looking to expand their portfolio would benefit from a broker's knowledge of the market, access to listings, and negotiation skills to secure additional properties at favorable terms.

4. Property Management: While not all brokers offer this service, some commercial real estate brokers or their affiliates offer property management services. This can be particularly appealing for owners who prefer a hands-off approach or are managing properties from a distance.

5. Market Analysis: Owners considering future developments, renovations, or rebranding of their property might engage a broker for a comprehensive market analysis. This helps in understanding current market trends, the demand for different types of spaces, and potential returns on investment for various strategies.

6. Refinancing: In situations where a property owner is looking to refinance their property, a commercial real estate broker can provide valuable insights into the property’s current market value, assist in gathering necessary documentation, and even help in finding the best financing options.

7. Partnership or Investment Opportunities: Owners interested in exploring partnerships, joint ventures, or seeking investors for expansion or development projects might use a broker to find and vet potential partners or investors.

8. Consulting on Zoning and Use Changes: When contemplating a change in the use of the property or dealing with zoning issues, a broker with experience in local regulations and the specific property type can provide guidance and strategic planning assistance.

9. Exit Strategy Planning: For owners looking to plan an exit strategy from their investment, whether it’s through a strategic sale or a gradual winding down of operations, brokers can provide market insights, timing advice, and valuation services to optimize the exit process.

In any of these scenarios, the expertise and services provided by a commercial real estate broker can save the property owner time and money, while also providing access to a wider network of potential buyers, tenants, and industry professionals. Give us a call today!

Find the perfect location for your business.

Let us help your business succeed.

🏢 Why Investors Are Betting on Office Market in 2025! 🏢

📢 🔥 Office Market Rebounds: Investors Seize Big Deals! 🔥 📢

February 03, 20254 min read

📢 🔥 Office Market Rebounds: Investors Seize Big Deals! 🔥 📢

🏢 Why Investors Are Betting on Office Market in 2025! 🏢

w years, Chicago’s office market has been, let’s just say… a tough sell. High interest rates, political uncertainty, and growing crime concerns had many investors sitting on the sidelines, watching buildings struggle with vacancies and dropping valuations. But now? Things are shifting—and fast.

In a surprising turn, we’ve seen four major office deals close or approach closing in just the past few weeks. And they aren’t just small transactions—these are deep-discount acquisitions that have caught the attention of opportunistic buyers. The key question: Why now? Let’s break it down.👇


💰 A Reset in Pricing—Bargain Hunting Begins

According to Andrew Brog of Brog Properties, the reset in Chicago office pricing is undeniable. His firm just scooped up a 16-story office building at 550 W. Washington Blvd. for a jaw-dropping $18.5M in all cash—a staggering 83% discount from the $111M price tag MetLife paid in 2013 when it was fully leased.

His take? Investors who aren’t from Chicago have an advantage because they aren’t emotionally attached to the pain of the last few years. They see the numbers, not just the struggles.

"You can't be from Chicago and be buying these buildings," Brog said.
"Or if you are from Chicago, you have to have never owned an office building in Chicago. And why? Because you can't see the opportunity, because you're going through pain.”

Translation: Outside investors smell blood in the water and they’re ready to pounce. 🦈


🏗️ The Value is in the Steel and Glass

Another big move? A joint venture between 601W Cos. and David Werner Real Estate Investments just picked up 303 E. Wacker for $63M—a whopping 66% drop from its 2018 price of $182M.

Ran Eliasaf of Northwind Group, which financed the deal, put it bluntly:

👉 “At a $35 per square foot basis, we feel comfortable with almost any building. Basically, the value of the glass and the steel is more.”

In simple terms: When a building’s price drops so low that the physical materials it’s made from are arguably worth more than the purchase price, investors start paying attention. 🤯


🏢 What’s Next for Chicago’s Office Market?

Despite these big plays, not every investor is convinced this is the start of a full-blown rebound. Eliasaf, for example, called his firm’s Wacker Drive deal a “one-off”—a rare moment where every factor aligned perfectly:

Strong location
Reliable cash flow
Good tenancy mix (no over-reliance on one major tenant)
Experienced buyers who have done multiple deals with Northwind before

That said, Brog is all-in on the idea that Chicago’s office market is on the verge of a comeback. He already owns two other office properties in the city and is looking for his next deal in the Central Loop. His strategy?

🚀 Upgrading amenities
🏗️ Doing build-to-suit deals
📉 Offering competitive rates thanks to the low-cost acquisition


📈 Why Some Investors Are Betting Big on Chicago

It’s not just about cheap deals—it’s about Chicago itself. Brog believes the city’s fundamentals remain strong:

🧑‍🎓 A steady pipeline of talent from Big Ten universities
🏙️ A prime location as the economic hub of the Midwest
🏢 A beautiful, architecturally rich office market that will always have demand

“Chicago is always going to be the center of the Midwest, the hub of the Midwest,” Brog said. “I don't think that's ever going to change.”


Final Thoughts: Is This the Bottom for Chicago’s Office Market?

If recent deals are any indicator, some investors believe we’ve hit rock bottom—and they’re making moves before prices climb again. The city’s office sector isn’t out of the woods yet, but for those with cash and a long-term vision, Chicago might just be the ultimate contrarian bet.

So, what do you think? Are investors making the right move by jumping in now, or is it still too soon to call a real recovery?

Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇💬

#ChicagoRealEstate #CRE #OfficeMarket #Investing #ChicagoCRE #CommercialRealEstate 🚀🏙️

Looking to buy, sell, or finance commercial real estate?

Work with an experienced Commercial Real Estate & Mortgage Broker you can trust!

Call me at 281-222-0433 today!

https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/

https://www.houstonrealestatebrokerage.com/houston-cre-navigator

https://www.commercialexchange.com/agent/653bf5593e3a3e1dcec275a6

http://expressoffers.com/[email protected]

© 2023-2024 Bill Rapp, Broker Associate, eXp Commercial Viking Enterprise Team

Chicago Office Market 2025 Commercial real estate investmentdistressed office propertiesCRE Market trendsChicago office buildings for saleChicago real estate opportunities
blog author image

Bill Rapp, CRE Broker

I am a Houston commercial broker, with residential experience, as well as a lending background. I have been in the real estate industry for 14 years and counting, and I have worked in many roles within the industry and each has given me a unique perspective of the industry as a whole. My dedication to clients is rooted in this industry knowledge, but also includes my desire to go the extra mile in networking to source off market opportunities for my clients. Me and my team at eXp Commercial have a cutting-edge technology package that gets the widest exposure for each transaction. eXp Commercial offers a nationwide network through which we can deliver the best exposure and professional advice to achieve our clients’ goals while also minimizing their risk. Clients appreciate my methodical method of discovery in our initial consultation. Through which we can get to know each other and their specific’s business’s needs and objectives on a granular level. Our processes help navigate each transaction and its potential pitfalls through to a successful outcome for our clients. It is my stated goal to provide our clients with extensive market analysis and expertise that fosters innovative solutions and rewarding commercial real estate opportunities.

Back to Blog

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Let us help your business succeed.

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Katy, TX 77494 USA

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