Local collectibles shop with a storefront

Local collectors, hobby gamers, parents, gift buyers and people selling their own collections.

Sales of new and used items at a margin, buying collections at a discount, and sometimes event entry fees or grading and supply sales.

• Deep knowledge of your collectibles niche
• Pricing and buying collections fairly
• Retail basics: stock control and customer service
• Building a local community

• Commercial lease terms, deposits and personal guarantees, so read carefully before signing
• Sales tax registration and local business license rules, which vary by state, county and city
• General liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire staff
• Large amounts of money tied up in stock, and prices that can change quickly with trends
• Theft and fraud, including fake or altered items offered for sale

Startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $100,000, depending on your location, lease and how much stock you buy. A large share of your budget can end up tied up in inventory, so plan your opening range carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on your location, stock mix, events and whether you also sell online. Expect to work roughly full-time hours, starting at about 35 hours a week.

Check commercial lease terms, deposits and personal guarantees before signing. Also check sales tax registration and local business license rules, which vary by state, county and city, plus insurance and workers' compensation once you hire, and how you will guard against theft and fake items.