Refurbished appliance reseller (online)

Renters, students, first-home movers and budget-conscious families who want a working appliance for less than new.

You sell each appliance for more than you paid plus parts and cleaning. Extra income can come from delivery fees and a short in-house warranty.

• Basic appliance testing and cleaning
• Spotting good deals when buying
• Clear photos and honest listings
• Customer service

• Electrical safety: check your state's rules on testing and tagging and on who can repair or sell electrical goods
• Gas appliances such as cooktops and heaters usually need a licensed gas fitter for any work, so check before you handle them
• Australian Consumer Law applies to second-hand goods, so check what guarantees you must honour and how to word any warranty
• Council approval may be needed for a home-based business, and for storing stock at home
• Check rules on disposing of old fridges and freezers, as refrigerant gases need careful handling
• Lifting heavy items risks injury, so use a trolley and a helper

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how much stock you buy and the tools and cleaning supplies you need. These are estimates only, so your own costs will vary.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many appliances you source, fix up and sell. These are estimates, so your results will depend on the stock you find and your prices.

Check your state's rules on electrical testing and tagging and who can repair or sell electrical goods. Gas appliances usually need a licensed gas fitter. Also check Australian Consumer Law guarantees, council approval for home businesses, and rules on disposing of old fridges.