Weekend floor refresh for rentals and resales

Landlords, property managers, real estate agents and homeowners preparing a property for sale, rent or a new tenant.

A fixed price per room or per square metre, with equipment hire and consumables built into the quote so each job covers its costs.

• Willing to learn machine sanding and finishing properly
• Organised, to schedule hire pick-ups and drying times
• Clear quoting and honest communication
• Patience for careful edge and corner work

• Public liability insurance, and check whether hired equipment is covered or you need extra cover
• Check your state's rules on any licensing for finishing work and on handling lead paint in older homes
• Dust and fumes from finishes need good extraction, ventilation and a proper respirator
• Hire costs and rushed weekend jobs can squeeze margins, so quote with a buffer
• Check any council or body corporate rules on noise and working hours for apartments

Startup costs are typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on equipment hire, finishes, safety gear and insurance. These are estimates, and your own costs will vary with the jobs you take and how often you hire machines.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many jobs you take, your pricing and your hire costs. The estimates assume at least around 8 hours a week, so results vary.

Check public liability insurance and whether hired equipment is covered. Check your state's rules on licensing for finishing work and on lead paint in older homes. Dust and fumes need good extraction, and apartments may have noise and working-hours rules.