Monetize your vacant warehouse in Chicago

Earn money and find clients by listing your warehouse for free in Chicago 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 actively looking to rent warehouse like yours.

They trust our landlords:

Expose your warehouse in Chicago to the best projects

List your warehouse in Chicago and start generating income today 

Why we need to rethink vacant about warehouse spaces in Chicago?

As the world progresses, so does the way we use our spaces. Warehouses are no longer just for storage- they can be turned into office spaces, retail spaces, and more. However, in Chicago, many warehouses are vacant and unused. This is a problem for a few reasons.

  1. Vacant warehouses are eyesores. They bring down the property value of the surrounding area and make it less desirable to live or work near. 
  1. They can be dangerous. They attract criminals and can be a general safety hazard.
  1. They are a wasted opportunity. With a little investment, these warehouses could be turned into valuable assets for the community. They could provide jobs, generate tax revenue, and revitalize neighborhoods.

There is a need to reevaluate buildings in Chicago and positively use vacant buildings. If we want to repair our infrastructure, our education system, and other systems in this city, we need to find ways to repurpose buildings. We need to create a city where abandoned warehouses are no longer vacant but are filled with businesses, apartment buildings, and other growth opportunities.

How to start a warehouse venue rental business in Chicago?

If you’re looking to start a warehouse venue rental business in Chicago, there are a few things you’ll need to do to get started. 

  1. First, you’ll need to find a suitable location for your business. This can be a challenge, as you’ll need to find a space that is large enough to accommodate your needs, as well as be in a convenient location for your potential customers. 
  1. Once you’ve found the perfect location, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses from the city. 
  1. And finally, you’ll need to promote your business to potential customers.

With a little planning and preparation, you can have your warehouse venue rental business up and running in no time.

You should consider the risks and make sure you are prepared for a challenging journey. If you are passionate about this idea and ready to take the next step, try to be consistent in your actions, be persistent, and most importantly, enjoy it!

List your warehouse in Chicago and get bookings today!

The advantages of listing your warehouse in Chicago with Storefront

1. Free Trial

Creating a listing takes less than five minutes and your first 45 days are free. No credit card details are required to create your listing.

2. Connect with amazing projects

Thousands of potential renters use Storefront every day to find spaces for their projects. Connect, make bookings and get paid through the Storefront platform.

3. Maximize your visibility

You’re in control of who, when and how renters book your space. Boost your listing to increase the number of people who see your space and the number of inquiries you receive.

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.

Storefront Calculator

How to succeed with Storefront

Maximize your warehouse’s potential with three easy steps to win more renters on Storefront.

Keep your listings up to dateReply quicklyAdd payment detailsBoost your space
  • Enter your daily price so that it is publicly displayed. Pricing is necessary to get relevant requests from qualified renters who can afford your warehouse 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 warehouse 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 warehouse in Chicago

Listing your warehouse 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 warehouse venue in Chicago?

If you’re looking for a unique and trendy venue for your next event in Chicago, a warehouse venue may be the perfect option. But how do you go about setting up a warehouse venue? Here are a few tips:

  1. First, find a suitable location. A warehouse venue can be located in any number of places, from an industrial area to a trendy neighborhood.
  1. Next, secure the necessary permits and licenses. You’ll need to ensure you have all the necessary permits and licenses to operate your warehouse venue.
  1. Once you have the location and permits sorted out, it’s time to start planning your event. Make sure you have a clear vision for your event and start booking the necessary vendors and suppliers.
  1. Finally, promote your event! Ensure you get the word out about your event and attract guests from all over Chicago.

You should now understand the process of setting up a warehouse venue and the rules to follow to make it a fun, exciting, and safe experience for everyone.

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 warehouse space in Chicago?

As the industrial sector in Chicago continues to grow, many warehouses are being left vacant. While some may see this as a problem, there are many benefits to having vacant warehouses in the city.

  1. First, vacant warehouses can be used for storage. This is especially beneficial for businesses that are growing and need extra space to store inventory.
  1. Additionally, vacant warehouses can be used for events. This is a great way to breathe new life into old buildings and can also be a source of revenue for the city.
  1. Finally, vacant warehouses can be redeveloped into new businesses or homes. This is a great way to revitalize neighborhoods and create new jobs. So, if you’re wondering what to do with all those vacant warehouses in Chicago, don’t worry; there are plenty of options!

Warehouse developers in Chicago should not overlook the importance of connectivity. Warehouse developers should keep in mind that in the era of e-commerce, connectivity is a key to their growth. An investment in a high-quality warehouse space will not be worth it’s salt if there is no connectivity. Thus, warehouse developers should ensure that their developments are well-equipped with the latest fiber-optic cabling and wireless networking.

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How long does it take to fill vacant warehouse space in Chicago?

The availability of vacant warehouse space in Chicago can fluctuate greatly depending on the time of year and the specific location. However, some general trends can guide how long it might take to fill a vacant warehouse in Chicago.

In the current market, it is generally taking longer to fill vacant warehouses in Chicago than in the past. This is due to several factors, including the slow economic recovery and the increasing competition from newer and more modern warehouses. Additionally, the vacancy rate for warehouses in Chicago is currently higher than the national average.

That said, there are still several companies that need warehouse space in Chicago. As a result, it is possible to find a tenant for a vacant warehouse relatively quickly if the right price is offered. In some cases, it may even be possible to negotiate a lease agreement within a few weeks.

Fill your vacant warehouse in Chicago with Storefront for free!

How to make an empty warehouse space look inviting in Chicago?

Empty warehouse space can be a daunting task to take on, but with a little bit of creativity, it can be transformed into an inviting space. Here are a few tips on how to make an empty warehouse space look inviting in Chicago:

  1. Start with a clean slate. Make sure the warehouse is clean and free of any debris before you start decorating.
  1. Add some color. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for an empty warehouse space. Choose a few colors complement each other and paint the walls, ceiling, and floors.
  1. Bring in furniture and accessories. Once the space is painted, it’s time to start filling it with furniture and accessories. Choose pieces that are both functional and stylish.
  1. Add some greenery. Plants and flowers can brighten up any space, so don’t forget to add them to your warehouse space.

The simple use of lighting and wall coverings — and even a piece of art — can transform a warehouse into a place you want to spend time. Because of this, the best way to transform an empty warehouse is to look for spaces that have character, like the one on the Dan Ryan Expressway, and to make it your own.

5 Key Steps to Managing a Successful warehouse Venue in Chicago

If you’re planning to open a warehouse venue business in Chicago, there are a few key steps you’ll need to take to ensure success. 

  1. First, you’ll need to choose the right location. The warehouse venue should be accessible for guests and close to public transportation. 
  1. Secondly, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses from the city. 
  1. Third, you’ll need to create a detailed business plan that outlines your operating costs, marketing strategy, and expected revenues. 
  1. Fourth, you’ll need to secure funding for your business. 
  1. And finally, you’ll need to hire experienced staff and train them on your warehouse venue’s policies and procedures. 

If you are still looking to start a business, this type can be quite profitable. The most important thing to do is to plan your business very carefully before you start. You need to know what you want to achieve in the first year, in the second year, and also in the third year of your business. You also need to decide what type of products or services you want to provide.

Make your warehouse in Chicago successful with Storefront

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 warehouse space in Chicago?

Are you looking for a way to make some extra money? Do you have a commercial warehouse space in Chicago that you’re not using? If so, you may be able to make money by renting out your space. There are several companies in Chicago that are looking for warehouse space to rent.

By renting out your space, you can earn money while also providing a service to these companies. If you’re interested in making money by renting out your warehouse space, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. 

  1. You’ll need to ensure that your space is suitable for commercial use. 
  1. You’ll need to find companies looking for warehouse space to rent. 
  1. You’ll need to negotiate a fair rental price.

If you follow these steps, you can make money by renting out your commercial warehouse space in Chicago.

5 Ways to monetize your warehouse space in Chicago

As a business owner in Chicago, you may be looking for ways to monetize your warehouse space. Here are 5 ideas to get you started:

  1. Rent out your warehouse space to other businesses.
  2. Use your warehouse space to host concerts or parties.
  3. Store and sell merchandise from your warehouse.
  4. Use your warehouse space to provide storage and shipping services for other businesses.
  5. Provide a workspace for entrepreneurs and small businesses.

By monetizing your warehouse space, you can not only generate additional income for your business but also make use of your space in a more efficient way. If you have a warehouse in Chicago, consider these 5 ideas to get started.

Advertise your warehouse in Chicago on Storefront for free today!

Renting out warehouse space in Chicago

For businesses in Chicago looking for extra storage space, renting warehouse space is a great option. There are many benefits to renting warehouse space, including the ability to scale up or down as needed, the flexibility to use the space for various purposes, and the convenience of having a central location for storing inventory and materials.

When deciding whether to rent warehouse space, there are a few important factors. 

  1. First, determine how much space you need and what type of space best suits your needs. 
  2. Then, research different warehouse rental options in Chicago to find the best price and location for your business. 
  3. Finally, consider your long-term storage needs to make sure renting warehouse space is the right decision for your business.

If you keep these things in mind, renting out your warehouse space can be a great way to earn extra income. Just be sure to do your homework and protect your investment.

Guidelines for renting out warehouse space in Chicago

When renting out warehouse space in Chicago, there are key guidelines to keep in mind. 

  1. First and foremost, it’s important to ensure the space you’re renting is up to code and meets all the necessary safety requirements.
  2. Secondly, you’ll want to be sure to find a space that’s conveniently located and easily accessible for your tenants. 
  3. Lastly, it’s important to set a fair and competitive price for your rental space. 

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a successful and stress-free experience for you and your tenants.

Advertise your warehouse venue in Chicago

If you own or operate a warehouse venue in Chicago, advertising your space can be a great way to generate additional income. There are many event planners and organizers who are always looking for new and unique venues for their events.  By advertising your warehouse venue, you can make it easier for them to find you and book your space.

There are a few things to remember when advertising your warehouse venue. 

  1. First, you want to ensure that your listing is clear and concise. Include all of the pertinent information that event planners will need to know, such as your capacity, amenities, and price. 
  1. You also want to include photos or videos of your space so that event planners can get a good sense of what your space looks like.
  1. Finally, you want to make sure that you are responsive to inquiries. Event planners are often working on tight timelines, so you want to be sure that you can answer any questions that they have promptly.

The Chicago area boasts an array of warehouse and industrial facility venues. The Chicago Business Journal reported on the industrial and warehouse market in September 2017, noting the growing market and predicting a bright future. Within the Chicago region, buildings are available in many sizes, with many amenities, including flexible lease terms, free or low-cost use of buildings, high ceilings, ample parking, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to list my space?

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.

What about the transaction fee?

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.

How long does the free trial last?

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.

What happens if the trial ends and I don’t upgrade?

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

Can I reactivate an offline space?

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.

Can I just create another space and make use of the free trial 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.

How much does the Subscription cost?

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.

How do I set up a listing?

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.

Can I speak to the renter?

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.

How long does it take for a payment to process after it has been approved?

It usually takes 3-7 business days to process your payment.

How do I arrange visit?

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.

What kind of renters and brands use Storefront?

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.

Does Storefront organise the viewings?

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.

What types of space can I list on Storefront?

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.

What do I do when the brand wishes to extend a booking or rebook?

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.

Can I refuse a project?

Yes you can you can refuse a project if you feel the inquiry does not suit you or your listing.

Is there a video walkthrough for listing my space?

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.

How can I get more bookings from my Storefront listing?

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.