Online auction house for local sellers

Sellers pay a commission on each sale, and sometimes a listing or handling fee. Buyers pay the winning bid and sometimes a buyer's premium.

A percentage commission on the hammer price, plus optional buyer's premium and fees for collection or photography. Income depends on the value and volume of items you sell each month.

• Good photography and clear listing descriptions
• Knowing roughly what items are worth
• Organised record keeping and customer service

• Check your state or territory's rules on auctioneer and second-hand dealer licensing, as these differ across Australia
• Money you collect for sellers should be handled carefully and paid out promptly, so check whether trust account rules apply
• Check Australian Consumer Law obligations on describing items accurately
• Verify ownership of goods to avoid selling stolen or disputed items
• Public liability insurance, and cover for stock while it is in your care
• Check GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, and council rules if you store goods at home

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on your photography gear, storage, insurance and platform fees. These are estimates, and your own costs will vary with how you set up and what you already own.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many items you sell, their prices and the hours you work. This is an estimate only, and it will vary with the goods you handle.

Check your state or territory's rules on auctioneer and second-hand dealer licensing, and whether trust account rules apply to seller money. Also check Australian Consumer Law on describing items accurately, verify ownership of goods, and check insurance.