Custom closet and storage supplier-installer

Homeowners, home stagers and realtors, plus builders who need storage fitted in new homes.

You charge a project price covering materials, your design time and installation, with the markup on materials plus labor making up your margin.

• Accurate measuring and planning
• Carpentry and installation
• Customer service in people's homes
• Pricing jobs

• Check your state's contractor licensing rules, as handyman or home improvement work often has dollar limits
• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire a helper
• Check your city or county for a local business license
• Register for sales tax if you sell materials, and check how your state treats installed goods
• Physical work with heavy boards, so plan for lifting and safe tool use
• Wall damage or measurement mistakes, so confirm plans with the customer in writing

Startup cost is an estimate, typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your tools, vehicle needs, sample systems and insurance. Costs vary with whether you install alone or hire a helper.

Check your state's contractor licensing rules, as handyman or home improvement work often has dollar limits. Also check general liability insurance, workers' compensation once you hire a helper, your city or county business license, and sales tax on materials.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on job size and how many installs you complete. You need accurate measuring, carpentry skills and good customer service. Plan on at least 15 hours a week; the work is physical.