Who should I hire to find warehouses for lease?

You need a commercial real estate agent who specializes in industrial leasing, not a residential agent. Residential agents handle houses. Commercial agents who focus on industrial and flex space know the inventory, the landlords, and the off-market options that never show up on LoopNet or Crexi. Look for a tenant rep broker. That's an agent who represents tenants in commercial lease negotiations, not the landlord. The distinction matters because a tenant rep works for you and your interests, while a listing broker works for the property owner. In most commercial leasing deals, the landlord pays the commission to both sides, so a tenant rep typically costs you nothing. To find one, search for commercial real estate brokerages in your area that have an industrial division. Companies like CBRE, Cushman & Wakefield, Colliers, and NAI have industrial specialists in most markets. Smaller boutique commercial firms in your area may also specialize in industrial and flex space. Call and ask specifically for someone who handles industrial tenant representation. A good tenant rep will know about spaces that aren't publicly listed, understand the lease terms that are negotiable, and help you avoid overpaying or signing a lease with terms that hurt you down the road. They'll also help you figure out exactly how much space you actually need, which solves the problem of everything you're finding being too large.

You can most certainly find an agent to assist you with a commercial lease. Definitely will take a bit of work off your plate. Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Operations In: NY, NJ, FL & CA

For industrial or flex space you should work with a commercial real estate broker who specializes in warehouse and industrial leasing. Commercial agents focus on business properties; they understand zoning, infrastructure and market rents, and they handle more complex transactions than residential agents. A good industrial broker can help you identify suitable spaces and negotiate your lease terms. Look for a broker who represents tenants – often called a tenant‑representation broker – because they will work on your behalf to find properties (including off‑market opportunities) and secure favorable terms. When interviewing brokers, ask about their experience with industrial and flex space, their market knowledge and contacts, and whether they hold designations such as CCIM or SIOR. Talk to other local business owners for referrals and avoid agents who primarily handle residential sales, since industrial leasing is a very different specialization.

Finding industrial or flex space is very different from finding residential or retail property. The listings you see online are only a fraction of what’s actually available, and most of the best spaces never hit public sites. That’s why the right professional matters. 🏭 1. You need a commercial real estate broker — not a residential agent Industrial, warehouse, and flex spaces are handled by commercial brokers who specialize in: - Industrial leasing - Flex/warehouse space - Manufacturing and distribution sites - Logistics‑friendly locations - Zoning and use requirements These brokers have access to databases and off‑market inventory the public never sees. 📊 2. Commercial brokers use different platforms Residential agents use MLS. Commercial brokers use: - CoStar - LoopNet (paid version) - Crexi - Private brokerage networks - Off‑market landlord relationships This is why you’re only seeing large or incomplete listings — the real inventory lives behind commercial platforms. 🧭 3. Look for a broker who specializes in industrial, not just “commercial” Commercial real estate has specialties: - Office - Retail - Industrial - Flex - Land - Mixed‑use You want someone who works specifically in industrial/flex leasing. They understand ceiling heights, loading docks, clear span, truck courts, zoning, utilities, and power requirements. 💼 4. The landlord usually pays the broker In most industrial leases: - The landlord pays the commission - You get representation at no cost - You gain access to off‑market and pre‑market spaces There’s no downside to hiring the right broker. 🤝 5. Work with an informed Realtor who can connect you to the right commercial specialist A knowledgeable agent — someone who understands the difference between residential and commercial, and who has relationships with industrial brokers — can connect you directly to the right specialist. This is exactly where having an experienced Realtor like me becomes a major advantage. 🎯 Bottom line To find the right warehouse or flex space, you need a commercial industrial broker with access to the real inventory — not just what’s online. They’ll source options, negotiate terms, and ensure the space fits your operational needs.

You will need to hire a commercial broker who is a member of Loopnet to find available commercial properties.