Delaware: A Premier Destination for Commercial Real Estate

Introduction

Delaware, though the second smallest state in the U.S., holds significant appeal for commercial real estate (CRE) investors and professionals. With a population of just under 1 million, Delaware boasts a dynamic economy characterized by strong sectors like finance, chemical manufacturing, and agriculture. Its strategic location on the Eastern Seaboard and business-friendly environment make it a prime destination for CRE ventures.

Economic and Industry Overview

Delaware's economy is anchored by key industries such as financial services, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. The presence of major corporations like DuPont and AstraZeneca underscores the demand for office and industrial spaces in the state. Delaware's Division of Small Business actively promotes regional economic development through various initiatives, fostering a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and subsequently driving CRE demand.

Strategic Location and Transportation Infrastructure

Delaware is strategically positioned with excellent transportation infrastructure, including major highways such as I-95, which connects the state to major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore. The Port of Wilmington, one of the busiest ports on the Delaware River, provides significant logistical advantages for distribution. The state is well-served by rail lines and is within proximity to major airports, enhancing accessibility to labor pools and coastal markets. The Delaware Department of Transportation provides comprehensive information on transportation infrastructure.

Commercial Real Estate Inventory & Zoning

Delaware's CRE market is characterized by diverse submarkets, including the Central Business District (CBD) in Wilmington, industrial corridors, and emerging innovation districts. Key asset classes include industrial, retail, office, and medical spaces. Recent zoning changes and incentives like Opportunity Zones encourage development. The City of Wilmington Zoning Maps offer detailed insights into zoning regulations and parcel information.

Major Employers and Institutions

Delaware is home to several major employers, including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Christiana Care Health System, all driving demand for commercial properties. The University of Delaware and Delaware State University contribute to the state's educational and research strength, further stimulating CRE activity. For more information, visit the Delaware Economic Development Office.

Notable Commercial Developments & Projects

Significant projects like the Riverfront Wilmington revitalization and mixed-use developments in Newark highlight Delaware's growth trajectory in CRE. The state's Office of State Planning Coordination provides updates on public-private partnerships and development projects, including those in designated Opportunity Zones.

Building Permits, Planning, and Development Tools

For developers and investors, Delaware offers a range of resources:

• Delaware Building and Safety Department
• Permitting Portals
• Parcel Map Viewer / GIS
• Planning Commission
• Development Code

Market Data & Economic Reports

Delaware's market data can be accessed through public data sets like census.gov and the state's open data portal. Brevitas utilizes AI-powered aggregation from these sources and internal insights to provide comprehensive market analysis. Explore Brevitas-powered dashboards for Delaware here.

Why Use Brevitas for Delaware CRE?

Brevitas offers a unique platform for CRE discovery in Delaware, powered by AI-driven tools and real-time market alerts. Features include:

• Auto-generated listing pages
• Email and landing page tools
• Integration with brokers and developers
• Exclusive listings and premium exposure

Brevitas stands as the go-to marketplace for Delaware commercial real estate, facilitating seamless transactions and strategic insights for investors and brokers.