Two buildings of the Chicago Board of Trade complex are up for sale. And the buildings’ owner, CME Group, is casting a wide net.  It’s hired two Chicago-based real estate companies that are now on the lookout for buyers.  They expect interest nationally and as far away as Europe, the Middle East and China.

Holly Duran is with one of the real estate firms. She said the trophy nature of the Chicago Board of Trade complex, and art-deco landmark at the end of LaSalle Street, will attract investors from a variety of companies.

“It’s been an icon in Chicago. It’s a true feature of the financial district, so we think REITS will be looking at it, Real Estate Investment Trusts, institutional investors, offshore investors,” she said.

The companies will market the space throughout the summer, and say they hope to close by the end of this year.  Duran said it is too early to comment on the buildings’ asking price.