In New York City's Chelsea neighborhood alone, Knotel has been responsible for nearly 30% of all deal activity since January, the company states.

Job growth, organic business growth and the outsiders' view of the value of Chicago real estate are positives, but higher property taxes loom.

It plans to offer shares at $16 to $18 each for proceeds of $810 million.

The office market in the second quarter fell below pre-recession levels to 10.6%, and it is on the way to hitting single digits.