Linoleum and vinyl flooring showroom

Homeowners renovating, landlords, builders, flooring installers, and small commercial customers such as clinics and schools.

You buy at trade prices and sell at a markup per square metre. Extras include underlay, adhesives, trims, measure and quote services and referrals from installers.

• Product knowledge and advising customers
• Accurate measuring and quoting
• Building relationships with tradies and installers
• Basic stock and cash flow management

• Commercial lease terms, bond and fit-out costs, so get the lease checked before signing
• Public liability and stock or contents insurance
• Australian Consumer Law obligations on product quality and warranties
• If you also offer installation, check your state's licensing rules and whether you need a licence or insurance for that work
• Older vinyl and flooring may contain asbestos, so check safe removal rules before advising customers on tear-outs
• Tied-up cash in stock and slow-moving lines

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the premises, fit-out, lease bond and how much stock you hold. Cash tied up in slow-moving lines is also worth planning for.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $60,000, depending on location, the mix of homeowner and trade customers and the stock you carry. Estimates assume at least about 40 hours a week.

Check commercial lease terms, bond and fit-out costs, and get the lease reviewed before signing. If you offer installation, check your state's licensing rules, and check safe removal rules for older flooring that may contain asbestos.