Online used guitar and amp seller

Players buying used gear online, often from across the country, plus local buyers who pick up.

The gap between what you pay for gear and what you sell it for, plus setup fees. Accessories and pedals add small, steady sales.

• Knowing guitar models, values and condition
• Basic setup and cleaning
• Good photos and honest listings
• Careful packing and shipping

• Check your state's sales tax rules, since marketplaces may collect some tax but you may still need to register
• Check your city or county for a home occupation permit and for HOA or lease limits on running a business at home
• Check local secondhand dealer rules, as some places require records of what you buy and from whom
• Shipping damage and buyer disputes are common, so use good packing and insurance for valuable items
• Some wood species like rosewood can have export restrictions, so check before shipping internationally
• Misjudging a guitar's value can tie up cash, so start small

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much gear you buy to begin with and what you spend on cleaning supplies, photo setup and packing materials. Starting with a small number of pieces can keep cash tied up lower.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how much gear you source and sell, the models you handle and your pricing. The idea assumes at least about 10 hours a week.

Check your state's sales tax rules, since marketplaces may collect some tax but you may still need to register. Check local secondhand dealer rules, home occupation and HOA or lease limits, and export restrictions on woods like rosewood before shipping internationally.