“Typically, tech companies have not focused on traditional glass and steel buildings,” Sevim adds. “That said, we're seeing a reduction in opportunities for them to rent in brick-and-timber buildings,” a type common in River North. Therefore, he's noticed that as loft space continues to dwindle, landlords in CBD are repositioning their space to appeal to both tech companies and more traditional businesses by offering comprehensive amenities such as fitness centers, wifi capabilities and even roof decks. In turn, he says tech companies are realizing that these buildings provide an alternative solution that can enable the creative workspace they desire.

And in general, the amenities landlords are providing are helping users attract new talent. For example, as recently reported in GlobeSt.com, Berkley Properties and 601W Companies, which gained control of One Prudential Plaza in 2013, have committed nearly $85 million to update the nearly 60-year-old East Loop tower. And the new features, including a 13,000-square-foot rooftop deck with a fire pit overlooking Millennium Park, a 12,000-square-foot fitness center and 7,000-square-foot clubhouse, were instrumental in attracting new tenants such as Cision, a provider of public relations software and services. This willingness among CBD landlords to do what it takes “isn't necessarily as ubiquitous in other large US markets,” Sevim says.

Furthermore, “with another set of class A assets with a combined value of nearly $2.0 billion about to hit the market, investment sales should remain steady in the next few months,” according to the third quarter report from Savills Studley. The firm believes that the 1.2-million-square-foot 353 N. Clark St. could soon command more than $700 million. And many other CBD office towers, such as 55 E. Monroe, which could sell for $380 million, have commenced sales proceedings. “It's an indication of how strong the capital markets are right now,” Sevim says.