Local office space finder

Usually the landlord or building manager pays a fee when a tenant signs. Some agents also charge tenants for a paid search service.

A commission or finder's fee on each letting, often linked to the first year's rent. Income comes in lumps, so a steady flow of enquiries matters.

• Good local property knowledge
• Negotiating and building relationships
• Organised with paperwork and viewings

• Check which professional indemnity and public liability insurance you need
• Property agents may need to join a redress scheme and follow anti-money laundering registration rules, so check with HMRC and the relevant bodies
• Check consumer and business protection rules on how you advertise and describe properties
• Keep written agreements with landlords on fees and exclusivity, as payment often depends on a deal completing
• Check any rules in your mortgage or tenancy about running a business from home

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £3,000, depending on your marketing, tools and insurance. These are estimates, so check which professional indemnity and public liability insurance you need before you begin.

Property agents may need to join a redress scheme and follow anti-money laundering registration rules, so check with HMRC and the relevant bodies. Also check consumer and business protection rules on advertising, and any mortgage or tenancy rules on working from home.

Monthly revenue is typically around £0 to £4,000, depending on how many leases are signed. Payment often depends on a deal completing, so keep written agreements with landlords on fees and exclusivity.