The Best 7 Real Estate Developers in Chicago

Chicago is a city of architectural marvels and vibrant neighborhoods, making it a prime location for real estate development. Whether you’re looking to invest, develop, or simply explore the dynamic real estate landscape, knowing the top players in the field is crucial. This guide from chicago.com will spotlight the Best 7 Real Estate Developers in Chicago, offering insights into the key players shaping the skyline and community fabric of this great city.

Real estate development is a multifaceted industry, encompassing a range of services and considerations. Here’s a look at some of the essential services offered by real estate developers in Chicago:

Project Planning and Design: Crafting architectural plans and designs that align with city regulations and aesthetic goals.
Land Acquisition: Identifying and purchasing land that meets strategic development objectives.
Construction Management: Overseeing the construction process to ensure timely and budget-conscious project completion.
Financing and Investment: Securing funding and managing financial strategies to maximize returns.
Market Analysis: Conducting thorough research to understand market trends and demands.
Sustainability Practices: Implementing eco-friendly solutions and sustainable building practices.
Legal Compliance: Navigating zoning laws, permits, and other legal requirements.
Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities to ensure developments meet public needs and preferences.

When choosing a real estate developer, consider the following aspects:

Reputation and Experience: Track record and expertise in the Chicago market.
Portfolio: Review of past projects to assess quality and innovation.
Cost: Transparent pricing structures and budget management.
Partnerships: Connections with reputable architects, contractors, and financiers.
Customization: Ability to tailor projects to specific client needs and visions.

By understanding these services and considerations, you’ll be better equipped to select a developer that aligns with your real estate goals in Chicago.

1. Kale Realty
2. Gold Coast Realty Chicago
3. Carrie McCormick Chicago Real Estate

4. Festival Properties
5. Diamond Equity Investments
6. Gregorarz Group
7. Enterprise Development Co

Number of companies

1158

Verified reviews

4,64

Average rating

(312)9395253

1. Kale Realty

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,7/5

First Floor, 2447 N Ashland Ave, 60614.0, Chicago

Real estate developer
Property management company
Real estate agent
Real estate consultant
Real estate agency
Real estate rental agency
Real estate school

Why we chose them

Kale Realty is a prominent, family-owned real estate brokerage based in Chicago, known for its comprehensive suite of services, including real estate development, property management, and agency services. Founded in 2007, the company has grown significantly, now boasting nearly 800 real estate professionals. Recognized as one of Chicago’s top workplaces by the Chicago Tribune on multiple occasions, Kale Realty emphasizes a culture of support and development, offering robust training, efficient team collaboration, and a competitive commission structure. Their commitment to agent success is evident in their personalized broker programs, tailored to enhance profitability and team growth, and their quarterly real estate summits that celebrate achievements and foster skill development.

The brokerage stands out not only for its services but also for its vibrant community and innovative initiatives. Hosting monthly social events and networking opportunities, Kale Realty fosters a collaborative environment among its agents. They also encourage community involvement and industry improvement by offering fee reductions for agents who volunteer. Additionally, the company’s leadership team, described as fun and dynamic, supports agents with various resources, including a popular podcast that interviews top real estate agents to share success strategies. This dedication to agent empowerment and community involvement makes Kale Realty a standout choice in the Chicago real estate landscape.

(312)2809600

2. Gold Coast Realty Chicago

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

1165 N Clark St #700, 60610.0, Chicago

Real estate developer
Apartment rental agency
Commercial real estate agency
Real estate consultant
Real estate agency

Why we chose them

Gold Coast Realty Chicago is a prominent player in the bustling Chicago real estate scene, offering a comprehensive suite of services including real estate development, apartment rentals, commercial real estate services, and consultancy. Their expertise spans across the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods such as Gold Coast, River North, Streeterville, and the West Loop. The company is renowned for its advanced search tools and hyper-local insights, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in the dynamic Chicago housing market.

With a focus on luxury and high-end properties, the company provides listings for everything from chic downtown condos to historic brownstones in prestigious areas like Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast. They are also well-equipped to assist clients looking for seasonal homes in desirable locations like Lake Geneva, WI, or the Greater Phoenix area. The company’s dedication to quality service and local expertise makes it a valuable addition to our directory, catering to diverse real estate needs across Chicago and beyond.

(312)9614612

3. Carrie McCormick Chicago Real Estate

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5,0/5

548 W Webster Ave, 60614.0, Chicago

Real estate developer
Home builder
Real estate agency
Real estate consultant
Real estate agent
Real estate rental agency

Why we chose them

Carrie McCormick Chicago Real Estate is a premier real estate firm renowned for its luxury brokerage services in Chicago. With over a billion dollars in sales and more than 22 years of expertise, Carrie McCormick has established herself as a leading figure in the industry. Her reputation for providing white glove client service, innovative marketing strategies, and record-breaking sales has earned her numerous accolades and a top ranking as the #1 individual agent at @properties Christies International. The firm offers a wide range of services, including real estate development, home building, real estate consulting, and rental agency services, ensuring clients receive comprehensive support throughout their real estate journey.

The team at this firm is recognized for its relentless advocacy and accessibility, being available to clients 24/7. With a deep understanding of the Chicago real estate market, the firm leverages its extensive network and reliable information to expertly guide clients in buying, selling, investing, and new developments. Carrie McCormick’s award-winning social media presence connects millions of buyers and sellers worldwide, further enhancing the firm’s reach and effectiveness. Known for her honesty and trustworthiness, Carrie and her team continue to set records and deliver unparalleled experiences, making them a standout choice for those seeking expert guidance in the Chicago real estate market.

(630)5042190

4. Festival Properties

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

500 N Michigan Ave UNIT 600, 60611.0, Chicago

Real estate developer

Why we chose them

Festival Properties is a renowned real estate company based in Chicago, specializing in helping homeowners sell their properties quickly and efficiently. They offer a hassle-free process for motivated sellers, providing fair all-cash offers within 24 hours and the flexibility to close in as little as seven days. The company prides itself on its transparency and commitment to creating win-win solutions, ensuring that no homeowner feels pressured or exploited. Their approach is tailored to meet individual needs, whether the property is facing foreclosure, divorce, or simply requires a fast sale due to life changes.

As a market leader, the company excels in offering creative solutions for homeowners, even in challenging situations. They purchase houses in any condition, whether occupied, vacant, or requiring significant repairs. Their dedication to professionalism is reflected in numerous testimonials from satisfied clients who appreciate the smooth and stress-free transaction process. By focusing on building partnerships with families and delivering competitive offers, they have established themselves as a trusted name in the Chicago real estate market. Their unique service model enables sellers to bypass traditional real estate hurdles, providing peace of mind and a fast, honest price for their homes.

(312)3137568

5. Diamond Equity Investments

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,2/5

6232 N Pulaski Rd 2nd Floor, 60646.0, Chicago

Real estate developer
Foreclosure service
Property investment company
Real estate agency
Real estate agent
Real estate consultant

Why we chose them

Diamond Equity Investments stands out as a versatile leader in the real estate industry, offering comprehensive services including real estate development, foreclosure services, property investment, and consultancy. Renowned for their “Sell House Fast As-Is” approach, they provide a seamless and expedited selling experience, handling all aspects from title work to closing. This strategy allows homeowners to sell properties in any condition without the burden of repairs, agent fees, or commissions, ensuring a quick and hassle-free transaction.

With regional offices in major cities like Chicago, Philadelphia, and Atlanta, Diamond Equity Investments facilitates property sales nationwide. Their process is straightforward: they schedule a viewing, present a cash offer, and manage all necessary paperwork, guaranteeing a swift closure. The company’s commitment to flexibility is evident in their ability to accommodate unique seller timelines and assist with relocation, making them an ideal choice for those seeking efficient and professional real estate solutions.

(313)8788830

6. Gregorarz Group

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5,0/5

3017 N Milwaukee Ave, 60618.0, Chicago

Real estate developer
Real estate agency
Real estate consultant
Investment company

Why we chose them

Gregorarz Group stands out in the realm of real estate investment, particularly in the North Chicago region and Naples, Florida. Specializing in multi-family properties, the company offers high-net-worth individuals a strategic avenue to grow and preserve their wealth. By integrating roles as both a developer and property manager, Gregorarz Group provides tailored investment solutions and niche connections that set it apart. The company prides itself on managing every phase of the investment process, from acquisition to disposition, ensuring long-term success for its clients. This comprehensive approach, coupled with a commitment to excellence, makes it a trusted partner for family office firms seeking reliable and lucrative real estate opportunities.

Since its inception in 2012, Gregorarz Group has been at the forefront of empowering family offices through strategic real estate capital allocation. Under the visionary leadership of Michael R. Gregorarz, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at CNBC and Merrill Lynch, the company has accumulated $35 million in assets under management. With services extending to third-party general contract construction work, Gregorarz Group showcases versatility in catering to diverse client needs. Michael’s deep-rooted expertise in acquisitions, capital structuring, and investor relations continues to drive the company’s growth and innovation, promising a future of unwavering commitment to excellence in the real estate sector.

(773)3486900

7. Enterprise Development Co

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,1/5

710 W Oakdale Ave # 1A, 60657.0, Chicago

Real estate developer
Apartment building
Property management company

Why we chose them

Enterprise Development Co. is a family-owned real estate developer, apartment builder, and property management company with over 50 years of experience. Known for their exceptional service and commitment to enhancing residents’ living environments, they offer a range of apartments in the Lakeview and South Loop neighborhoods. Their dedication to maintaining and improving properties ensures that each apartment is well-designed and meticulously managed. Prospective residents can explore available units through virtual tours, with pre-approval applications available at no cost, streamlining the process of finding a new home.

The company prides itself on respectful communication and prompt problem resolution, guaranteeing that maintenance requests are handled swiftly and professionally. Regular inspections and 24-hour availability demonstrate their commitment to tenant satisfaction. Highlighted properties, such as Belmont Court Apartments in East Lakeview, showcase the quality and care invested in their developments. With no brokers involved, they maintain direct communication with potential tenants, ensuring a seamless and personalized leasing experience.

FAQs

What services do real estate developers in Chicago typically offer?

Real estate developers in Chicago typically offer a range of services including project planning and design, land acquisition, construction management, financing and investment, market analysis, sustainability practices, legal compliance, and community engagement.

How much does it cost to hire a real estate developer in Chicago?

The cost of hiring a real estate developer in Chicago can vary widely depending on the scope and complexity of the project. On average, prices can range from €50,000 to €500,000 or more for comprehensive development services.

How long does it typically take to complete a real estate development project in Chicago?

The timeline for completing a real estate development project in Chicago can vary based on the size and complexity of the project. Generally, it can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months from planning to completion.

What should I look for when choosing a real estate developer in Chicago?

When choosing a real estate developer, consider their reputation and experience, portfolio of past projects, cost transparency, partnerships with architects and contractors, and ability to customize projects to meet your needs.

Why is market analysis important in real estate development?

Market analysis is crucial as it helps developers understand current market trends, demands, and economic conditions, ensuring that the projects are viable and meet the needs of potential buyers or tenants.

What role does sustainability play in real estate development in Chicago?

Sustainability is increasingly important in Chicago real estate development. Developers implement eco-friendly solutions and sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact and comply with city regulations, appealing to environmentally conscious clients.

How do real estate developers in Chicago engage with local communities?

Developers engage with local communities by collaborating with residents and local organizations to ensure that developments align with community needs and preferences, fostering positive relationships and support.

What legal considerations should be taken into account in Chicago real estate development?

Developers must navigate zoning laws, obtain necessary permits, and comply with local building codes and regulations. Legal compliance ensures that projects proceed without legal hindrances and meet all city requirements.