The industrial real estate market isn't just about warehouses and factories—some of the most intriguing opportunities lie in unconventional properties. From repurposed aircraft hangars to underground storage bunkers, unique industrial buildings offer creative investors and businesses a chance to stand out. If you're looking for something beyond the standard warehouse, here's a guide to the most unusual industrial buildings for sale properties currently on the market.

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Why Buy an Unusual Industrial Property?

  • Lower Competition – Unique spaces often attract fewer buyers, leading to better deals.

  • Adaptive Reuse Potential – Convert historic or quirky buildings into high-value assets.

  • Niche Market Appeal – Ideal for specialized industries like film production, art storage, or high-security operations.

  • Higher ROI Potential – Creative conversions can yield premium rental income or resale value.

5 Unique Industrial Buildings You Can Buy Right Now

1. Decommissioned Aircraft Hangars

Best For: Aviation startups, event venues, film studios, or mega-garages.

Why Buy? These massive structures offer wide-open spaces with high ceilings, perfect for large-scale operations. Some even come with runway access.

2. Underground Cold War Bunkers

Best For: Data centers, secure storage, survivalist businesses, or unique Airbnb rentals.

Why Buy? Built for durability and secrecy, these fortified spaces offer unparalleled security and climate control.

3. Abandoned Grain Silos Mills

Best For: Vertical farming, breweries, co-working spaces, or avant-garde housing.

Why Buy? Their cylindrical structure and industrial aesthetic make them perfect for adaptive reuse projects.

4. Retired Power Plants Factories

Best For: Tech campuses, museums, or mixed-use developments.

Why Buy? Many feature historic architecture and robust infrastructure, ideal for large-scale redevelopment.

5. Floating Warehouses (Barges Dockside Facilities)

Best For: Maritime logistics, pop-up retail, or waterfront hospitality ventures.

Why Buy? Water-adjacent industrial spaces provide unique logistics advantages and scenic views.

How to Evaluate an Unusual Industrial Property

  • Structural Integrity – Older or unconventional buildings may need significant upgrades.

  • Zoning Permits – Ensure the property can legally be used for your intended purpose.

  • Utility Access – Verify water, electricity, and HVAC capabilities.

  • Environmental Factors – Some sites (like former factories) may require soil or asbestos testing.

Where to Find These Hidden Gems?

  • Specialized Real Estate Marketplaces (e.g., CommercialCafe, PropertyShark)

  • Government Surplus Auctions (Decommissioned military or municipal properties)

  • Historic Preservation Societies (Listings for old factories, mills, and industrial landmarks)

  • Local Word-of-Mouth (Some unique properties never hit mainstream listings)

Final Thoughts

While traditional warehouses and distribution centers dominate the industrial real estate market, unconventional properties offer rare opportunities for visionary buyers. Whether you're an investor seeking a one-of-a-kind asset or a business owner needing a distinctive space, exploring these hidden gems could lead to a game-changing acquisition.