Online and market discount goods seller

Bargain hunters at local markets, online shoppers looking for low-priced basics and families buying in multiples.

You buy in bulk from wholesalers, then sell at a markup per item or in value bundles. Market days bring cash sales while online orders add extra reach.

• Finding low-cost stock
• Setting up simple online listings
• Packing and posting orders
• Friendly selling face to face

• Market operators usually want public liability insurance and may charge stall fees, so check before booking
• Product safety and labelling rules for items such as toys and electrical goods; check with the ACCC and your state fair trading body
• Storing stock at home may need council approval for a home-based business, so check with your local council
• Postage costs and returns can eat into thin margins on cheap items

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your opening stock, stall setup and online shop costs. There is no shop rent, as stock is stored at home or in a small storage unit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many markets you attend, how well your online listings sell and your stock choices. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week.

Market operators usually want public liability insurance and may charge stall fees. Check product safety and labelling rules for toys and electrical goods with the ACCC and your state fair trading body, and whether storing stock at home needs council approval.