Independent serviced office broker (home-based)

Operators and landlords of serviced offices usually pay you a commission when a client signs. The business looking for space normally pays nothing.

A commission from the operator on each signed agreement, often based on the rent or the term. Income comes in lumps, so building a steady flow of enquiries matters.

• Sales and negotiation
• Organised follow-up with many enquiries
• Clear communication with business owners
• Learning local office markets

• In most states and territories, earning commission for arranging commercial leases may require a real estate agent's licence or similar registration, and rules differ for serviced offices and licence agreements, so check with your state or territory regulator before you trade
• Get commission terms in writing and check when you are paid, and whether you are paid if a client leaves early
• Register for an ABN and check when GST registration applies
• Consider professional indemnity and public liability insurance
• Check council rules for running a business from home

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your setup, tools and how much you spend on marketing. Because the work is home-based, costs are estimated to be lower than for an agency with premises.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many clients sign and your commission terms with operators. Income is paid as commission, so check when you are paid and whether it applies if a client leaves early.

Check before you trade. In most states and territories, earning commission for arranging commercial leases may require a real estate agent's licence or similar registration, and rules differ for serviced offices and licence agreements. Contact your state or territory regulator, and check ABN, GST and insurance.