Mobile curtain and blind consultant

Homeowners who want help choosing, plus landlords, letting agents and small businesses such as B&Bs.

You charge the customer a retail price and pay a trade price to the maker or supplier. The difference, plus a fitting fee, is your income.

• Good eye for colour and style
• Accurate measuring
• Selling and advising customers
• Practical fitting with basic tools

• Public liability insurance, and check cover for working at height on ladders
• Agree who is responsible for remakes if a measurement is wrong, in writing with your supplier
• Take deposits for made-to-order items and give clear terms, as these goods are often not returnable
• Check child safety rules for blind cords and fitting
• A vehicle big enough for samples and ladders

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on the sample books, tools and vehicle setup you need. This is an estimate, so check what your trade supplier or workroom partner offers before buying.

Monthly revenue is typically around £600 to £3,500, depending on how many homes you visit and the size of each order. These are estimates, not guarantees, and results depend on your local demand.

Check public liability insurance, including cover for working at height on ladders. Agree in writing with your supplier who is responsible for remakes if a measurement is wrong, and check child safety rules for blind cords and fitting.