Start an online flag and flagpole store

Homeowners, veterans' groups, schools, small businesses, churches and sports fans.

Profit on each item sold, usually the difference between wholesale and retail price. Poles and flag sets raise the average order, and bulk orders from organizations add larger sales.

• Basic online store setup
• Product research and sourcing
• Customer service
• Packing and shipping

• Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and collecting tax on online sales
• Check whether you need a local business license or a home occupation permit, and any HOA or lease limits on running a business from home
• Check the rules for selling licensed sports team and logo flags, as some require permission from the brand owner
• Poles are long and bulky, so shipping costs and damage can eat into profit

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on whether you dropship from a supplier or keep a small stock at home, and on how much you spend on your website and product range.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on your range, traffic and pricing. That is revenue, not profit. Poles are bulky, so shipping costs and damage can eat into what you keep.

Check your state's rules on sales tax registration and collecting tax on online sales. Also check local business license or home occupation permit needs, HOA or lease limits, and whether licensed sports team flags need permission from the brand owner.