Online sofa store with fabric samples

Online shoppers furnishing homes, especially people who want choice of size and fabric, or who live far from big furniture stores.

You sell at a markup over the supplier's price, with delivery fees and swatch fees where they apply. Customers pay in full or a deposit when ordering.

• Running an online store and basic product photography
• Supplier negotiation and order tracking
• Clear, patient customer service by phone and email

• Australian Consumer Law applies to online sales, including consumer guarantees and clear pricing, so check your obligations
• Damage in transit and who pays for returns, so agree this with suppliers in writing
• Long delivery times: be honest about lead times to avoid disputes and chargebacks
• Public liability and product liability insurance, and check whether your supplier's cover is enough
• Registering for GST once turnover reaches the threshold
• Home-based business rules, if you store samples at home, may need council approval

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your website, fabric sample stock and photography. These are estimates, and suppliers may deliver direct so you do not need a showroom.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your range, marketing and how many orders you win. This is an estimate, not a guarantee.

Check your Australian Consumer Law obligations, including consumer guarantees and clear pricing. Also check who pays for transit damage and returns, be honest about lead times, review insurance, and register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold.