Party venue from a space you already have

Hosts of birthdays, small weddings, showers, reunions and team gatherings who want something more personal than a standard hall.

A flat or hourly rental fee, plus charges for extra hours, cleaning, furniture and equipment, and a refundable security deposit. Listing fees on marketplaces or booking sites may apply.

• Hosting and clear communication
• Organizing bookings and turnovers
• Taking good photos for listings

• Zoning, home occupation or special use permits, which vary a lot by county and city
• Your homeowner's insurance may not cover paid events, so ask about event or general liability cover
• Noise, parking and neighbor complaints, so set quiet hours and guest limits in your rental agreement
• Alcohol, tents, open flames and fire safety rules, so check with your local fire marshal and state rules
• Weather and cancellations for outdoor spaces, so write a clear cancellation policy

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on the space you already have, furniture, lighting, signage, and insurance. A space that needs little setup will sit toward the lower end.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $3,500, depending on your rates, how many weekends you book, and the season. Weather and cancellations can affect outdoor spaces, so a clear cancellation policy helps.

Check zoning, home occupation or special use permits, which vary by county and city. Also check whether your homeowner's insurance covers paid events, noise and parking rules, and alcohol, tent, open flame and fire safety rules with your local fire marshal.