Monetize your vacant retail space in Chicago
Earn money and find clients by listing your retail space in Chicago for free in less than 5 minutes
Make the most of Storefront’s 45-day free trial. Storefront connects landlords and space owners in Chicago with top brands, retailers, agencies, entrepreneurs, and artists looking to rent spaces like yours.
They trust our landlords:
Expose your retail space in Chicago to the best projects
List your retail space in Chicago and start generating income today
Why we need to rethink vacant about retail spaces in Chicago?
As the retail industry evolves, so do the needs of retailers. To remain competitive, retailers need to be able to adapt to the ever-changing landscape. One way that retailers can do this is by rethinking the way they use vacant space.
In Chicago, there is a growing trend of vacant retail space. This is due to several factors, including the rise of online shopping and the decline of brick-and-mortar stores. While this may seem like a bad thing, it presents an opportunity for retailers.
By rethinking vacant space, retailers can create new and innovative retail experiences that will attract customers. By doing this, they can help to revitalize the retail industry in Chicago.
How to start a retail venue rental business in Chicago?
Are you looking to start a retail venue rental business in Chicago? If so, there are a few things you need to know.
- You will need to find a suitable location.
- You will need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses.
- You will need to create a business plan.
If you have a passion for retail and are looking for a new business venture, then starting a retail venue rental business in Chicago may be the right choice. With a retail venue rental business, you can rent out space to retailers, businesses, and even individuals for events, pop-ups, and more.
To get started, you will first need to find a suitable location. Once you have found a potential location, you will need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. Once you have obtained the permits and licenses, you will need to create a business plan.
List your retail space in Chicago and get bookings today!
The advantages of listing your retail space in Chicago with Storefront
1. Free Trial
2. Connect with amazing projects
3. Maximize your visibility
Is my space a good fit?
Discover your space’s potential on Storefront.
Utilize our free calculator that evaluates your space by comparing it to similar listings on Storefront. You’ll receive an estimate of the inquiries and bookings your space could attract.
How to succeed with Storefront
Maximize your retail space’s potential with three easy steps to win more renters on Storefront.
- Enter your daily price so that it is publicly displayed. Pricing is necessary to get relevant requests from qualified renters who can afford your retail space.
- Photos are your most important marketing tool. Listings with at least six high-quality photos taken from a variety of angles get more bookings than those without.
- Update your availability calendar to show prospective renters when they can book.
- Respond to inquiries within 48 hours. Projects often find a new space within five days – keep a competitive edge with a speedy reply.
- Enable SMS notifications to close deals faster. Hosts with SMS notifications enabled are more likely to be able to start a conversation and get a quote within 24 hours.
- Always accept payments through the Storefront platform. Add your bank account information to get faster bookings. Then you can pre-approve brands to rent your retail space. Learn more about collecting payments here.
- Boost your space to appear higher in the search results. Once your listing is live you have the option to Boost your listing with a monthly subscription. Boosted listings appear at the top of relevant searches and consistently receive more views, inquiries and bookings.
Monetize your empty retail space in Chicago
Listing your retail space in Chicago with Storefront in three steps
- It takes 5 minutes
- Take some great photos
- Get your contact and payment details ready
How to set up a retail venue in Chicago?
When setting up a retail venue, Chicago is a great place to be. With a thriving downtown area and a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, there is a retail venue for every type of business. Here are a few tips on how to set up a retail venue in Chicago:
- First, you will need to find the perfect location. Downtown Chicago is a great place to start, as there is a lot of foot traffic and various businesses.
- Once you have found a location, you must secure the proper permits and licenses.
- Next, you must build your space to meet your specific needs.
- Finally, you will need to stock your shelves with merchandise and promote your new business.
With these tips, you will be well on your way to setting up a successful retail venue in Chicago.
Find more renters with amazing photos
- Take professional photos
- Write a top-notch space description
- Put down the right pricing
What to do with vacant retail space in Chicago?
As the retail landscape changes, particularly in big cities, landlords and property managers are left wondering what to do with vacant retail space. In Chicago, there are a few options for landlords when it comes to vacant retail space.
- One option is to lease the space to a pop-up shop. This can be a great way to generate income from the space and create foot traffic for the surrounding businesses.
- Another option is to convert the space into office space. This is becoming increasingly popular as the line between work and home life continues to blur.
- Finally, some landlords are choosing to simply leave the space vacant. This may not be the ideal option, but it can be the best option in some cases.
No matter what option you choose, it’s important to consult with a professional to ensure that you are making the best decision for your property.
Trusted by more than 10000+ landlords
Here’s what our landlords say about Storefront
How long does it take to fill vacant retail space in Chicago?
In Chicago, the retail vacancy rate has been rising in recent years. According to a report by the Commercial Alliance Chicago, the vacancy rate for retail space in Chicago was 6.2% in 2017, up from 5.6% in 2016. So, how long does it take to fill vacant retail space in Chicago?
Well, that depends on several factors, including the location of the space, the size of the space, and the type of retail business that is looking to lease the space. For example, a small retail space in a prime location may only be on the market for a few weeks before it is leased by a new tenant.
On the other hand, a large retail space in a less desirable location could take months or even years to lease. Ultimately, the amount of time it takes to fill vacant retail space in Chicago will vary depending on the individual situation.
Fill your vacant retail space in Chicago with Storefront for free!
How to make an empty retail space look inviting in Chicago?
When it comes to retail spaces, first impressions are everything. An empty, uninviting space is the surest way to deter customers from entering your store. But with a few simple changes, you can make even the most space look inviting and appealing. Here are a few tips for making an empty retail space look inviting in Chicago:
- Make use of lighting. Strategic lighting can make a big difference in the feel of a space.
- Add some color. A pop of color here and there can brighten up a space and make it more inviting.
- Use furniture and accessories to create inviting vignettes. Arranging furniture and accessories in a way that is pleasing to the eye will make your space more inviting and inviting.
- Get creative with window displays. Window displays are a great way to show off your merchandise and make your space more inviting.
The best way to make a retail space look inviting is to have a good amount of foot traffic. The right retailers can help draw people in, but businesses also need to offer something unique to help them stop and stay awhile.
5 Key Steps to Managing a Successful retail Venue Business in Chicago
As a retail business owner in Chicago, you face many challenges. You need to attract and keep customers, deal with competition, and manage your inventory and staff. But if you can master these five key steps, you’ll be on your way to a successful retail business:
- Know your audience. Who are your customers, and what do they want?
- Find the right location. Consider foot traffic, parking, and other businesses in the area.
- Create a unique and inviting space. Your store should be clean, well-lit, and inviting.
- Train your staff. They should be knowledgeable about your products and able to provide great customer service.
- Promote, promote, promote. Use social media, signage, and other marketing techniques to get the word out about your business.
With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a successful retail business in Chicago.
Make your retail venue in Chicago successful with Storefront
Any type of space can thrive on Storefront, from vacant retail space to industrial lofts.
After all, one thing that makes Storefront unique is its diversity of options.
Maximize Your Storefront Listing
Once it’s published, Boost it.
Boost your listing for more inquiries
- Once you’ve created your listing in the Storefront platform you will have the option to Boost it.
- Boosted listings appear at the top of search results, outranking similar spaces.
- Boosted listings receive more views, inquiries and bookings.
- Boosting a listing is a monthly subscription that can be canceled at any time.
- The cost to Boost a listing depends on the type of space and location.
- When your listing is live you will see a Boost button next to each listing in the ‘manage listings’ section of the platform.
How to make money with renting your commercial retail space in Chicago?
In Chicago, commercial retail space is expensive. So, how can you make money by renting your commercial retail space?
- The first step is to find a reputable and reliable commercial real estate broker. A good broker can help you find the right space for your business and negotiate a fair lease.
- Next, you need to select the right location. The location of your retail space will be one of the most important factors in determining your success. You’ll want to choose a location that is convenient for your customers and has high foot traffic.
- Once you’ve found the perfect location, it’s time to start marketing your space. You’ll want to make sure that your space is visible to potential tenants and that it’s priced competitively.
If you follow these steps, you’ll be on your way to making money with your commercial retail space in Chicago.
5 Ways to Monetize Your retail Space in Chicago
If you’re a retail business owner in Chicago, you may be looking for ways to monetize your space. Here are 5 ideas to get you started:
- Offer space for pop-up shops.
- Host special events or workshops.
- Rent out your space for private parties or corporate events.
- Showcase local artists or products.
- Offer space for community gatherings or meetups.
Each of these ideas can help you generate additional revenue and better use your retail space. Talk to your customers and see what would be most appealing to them. You may be surprised how many people are interested in using your space for events or private parties.
Advertise your retail space in Chicago on Storefront for free today!
Renting out retail space in Chicago
In Chicago, the retail market is booming. With new developments sprouting up all over the city, there are more opportunities than ever to rent out retail space. But with so many options, it can be tough to decide where to open up shop. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering renting retail space in Chicago:
- Location is key. Make sure to choose a convenient location for your customers and easy to get to.
- Size matters. Make sure to choose a space that is the right size for your needs. You don’t want to be cramped up in a small space or spread out in a large one.
- Know your budget. Renting retail space can be expensive, so make sure you have a realistic budget in mind before you start looking.
- Shop around. There are many options out there, so take your time and look around before making a decision.
The City of Chicago passed a law that makes it illegal to rent out storefronts to merchants and artists for less than 30 days. This law was passed because of concerns that the landlords in Chicago are robbing the city of taxes, rent, and property-value increases by renting out the land to people who don’t pay taxes, rent, or property taxes.
The main concern is that Chicago doesn’t want the land to be used for artistic and cultural purposes that don’t contribute to the city’s tax base. The law is expected to be challenged in court.
Guidelines for renting out retail space in Chicago
Chicago is a thriving city with a large population. It is home to many retail spaces, perfect for small businesses. When renting out retail space in Chicago, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- First and foremost, you need to make sure that you comply with all of the city’s regulations. This includes things like obtaining the proper permits and licenses, as well as making sure your property is up to code.
- Additionally, you need to be aware of your competition and what they offer in terms of rent and amenities.
- Finally, you need to price your rental property competitively to attract the best tenants.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a successful rental experience in Chicago.
Advertise your retail venue in Chicago
Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States, and it is also the most populous city in the Midwest. Chicago has a population of 2.7 million residents and is home to many well-known attractions like The Bean, Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), Navy Pier, Grant Park, and Lincoln Park Zoo.
Chicago has a vast array of shops that offer merchandise for every taste and budget. You can find anything from high-end luxury brands to bargain basement deals on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile or in one of its many neighborhoods.
If you own a retail venue in Chicago, you know how important it is to get the word out about your business. There are many ways to advertise your retail venue, but it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some tips to help you get started advertising your retail venue in Chicago.
- One of the most important things to do when advertising your retail venue is to ensure your website is up-to-date and easy to navigate. Potential customers should be able to find everything they need to know about your business quickly and easily.
- Social media is also a great way to reach potential customers. Make sure you have a strong presence on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Regularly post updates about your business, special offers, and events.
- Another great way to reach potential customers is through local publications. Advertise in newspapers, magazines, and online directories.
It is important to do some market research before advertising your store. You need to know where your target customers are located and what their preferences are. Once you have figured this out, you can use these insights to advertise your store in the best possible way.
Do you have vacant retail space in other cities?
List them on Storefront
Frequently Asked Questions
Having a live listing on Storefront requires a paid monthly subscription. However, we offer a free 45-day trial which doesn’t require credit card or bank details to get started.
After the free trial ends you will have to upgrade to a paid subscription to keep receiving inquiries.
Storefront takes 20% of the rental price as a transaction fee. This all comes out of what the renters pays. When you set your price in the platform you will clearly see how much you will receive per transaction.
Storefront offers a free trial of 45 days for new listings. After 45 days you will have to upgrade to a paid subscription to keep your listing live.
At the end of the 45-day free trial if you do not upgrade to a paid subscription your listing will be deactivated an go offline. Offline listings will no longer be visible to renters and you will no longer receive inquires
Once a space goes offline you will need to upgrade to a paid subscription to put it back online. As soon as you subscribe your listing will be visible to renters and you will start to receive inquires again.
Unfortunately not. Duplicate listings will not be approved and any such listings will not go live until the Listing Owner upgrades to a paid subscription.
After your 45-day free trial has finished you will need to upgrade to a paid subscription to keep your Listing live. The subscription is a monthly price that varies country to country. In the United States it costs $49 a month. Prices for other countries are similar but vary slightly depending on currency.
It takes less than 5 minutes to set up a listing. Check out this guide on how to list a space or click here to get started.
You can use the chat function to speak with renters in the platform. After you have worked with us for a
while you will be able to speak directly with them by clicking the ‘Request To Call Back’ button. This will
allow you to arrange a time to have a call with the brand. Please note: This functionality is not available to
everyone and we reserve the right to remove it if we feel it is not being used responsibly.
It usually takes 3-7 business days to process your payment.
Once you have confirmed your availability with the contact, you can click the button that say “Arrange
a visit” here you can suggest multiple dates and times that the brand can select.
A broad range of brands and renters use Storefront to find venues and spaces for their projects. From high street apparel to
high end showrooms and corporate events. If you make it clear in your listing what types of renters your space is
most suited to (including, event type, description, minimum duration, pricing etc.) you should only receive inquiries
from renters within your target demographic.
We do not organise viewings if you manage the listing. A select number of Storefront Listings are operated by the Storefront Concierge team but this is only for a very small number of listings and is a billable service (you will probably have to pay for it).
If you would like Storefront to manage your listing (including visits) please let us know and we will see if it’s something we are able to accommodate. There may be a fee involved. The best option will be for you to arrange your own viewings
with renters.
All types of commercial real estate perform well on the Storefront platform. Anything from retail, photo studios and art galleries to showrooms and warehouses. We attract a broad range of renters looking for all manner of use cases.
If the brand wishes to rebook, please instruct the brand to go back to the Storefront listing and rebook.
This is part of Storefront’s terms and conditions of usage and if you do not correctly follow this process we reserve the right
to pursue any guilty parties for breaching the terms and conditions.
Yes you can you can refuse a project if you feel the inquiry does not suit you or your listing.
Listing your space with Storefront takes five minutes. We have created a video walkthrough on how to list a space that can be found here.
Once your listing(s) has been published on Storefront you are immediately visible to potential tenants and able to start receiving inquiries. However, it is highly recommended that you scroll up and read the ‘How to succeed with Storefront‘ section of this page.
A highly optimised and well-managed listing will receive more inquiries and you will get more out of the Storefront platform. Optimising and managing your listing is straightforward, easy, and well worth the few minutes it will take.
We have created this video to help you.
You can also Boost your listing for a monthly subscription. This is done after your listing is published and live and will ensure your listing is one of the first relevant prospective renters see when searching the Storefront platform.