Chicago

Private equity has gotten quite active, but REITs like Public Storage have started third-party management businesses that will give them the inside tracks.

The CBDs are now seen as great places to both work and live.

The amount of space dedicated to co-working in the Chicago market has more than tripled since 2014.

Spending several million dollars on renovations can attract enough tenants to fill up properties once plagued by vacancies.

Leasing activity in the metro area outpaces delivery, making it a good time to invest in many of the region's submarkets.

The partnership has purchased the vacant office space in the former Gucci Building for $135 million.

Years of investment activity means that available supply is low, and cities like Columbus and Memphis are seeing benefits.

Tech firms should play a key role in sustaining a healthy level of downtown activity.