Used appliance reseller (online, pickup only)

Students, renters, new arrivals, young families and landlords furnishing units on a budget.

You buy appliances cheaply, then sell them for more after cleaning, testing and minor repairs. Margin per item depends on the brand, condition and how much work it needs.

• Basic appliance testing and cleaning
• Spotting good deals when buying
• Clear photos and honest listings
• Handling buyer messages

• Check your municipality's rules on running a home-based business and storing goods at home
• Check provincial rules on selling used goods and any consumer protection or warranty obligations
• Fridges and freezers contain refrigerants, so check provincial rules on handling and disposal
• Test electrical and gas appliances carefully; gas appliances usually need a certified technician, so check your province
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check whether your home insurance covers stored stock
• Heavy lifting, so plan for a dolly, help and safe handling

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on how much stock you buy and the tools or dolly you need. Monthly revenue is estimated at about $500 to $3,500, depending on what you sell and your pricing.

Check your municipality's rules on home-based businesses and storing goods at home, and provincial rules on selling used goods and consumer protection or warranty duties. Also check refrigerant handling and disposal rules, certified technician requirements for gas appliances, and insurance for stored stock.

Estimates suggest at least about 8 hours a week, depending on how much stock you handle. Useful skills include basic appliance testing and cleaning, spotting good deals, clear photos and honest listings, and handling buyer messages.