Online home cinema shop with in-home advice

Homeowners who want expert help choosing a TV or sound system and don't want to work it out alone.

Margin on equipment you sell, plus fees for consultations, mounting, setup and tuning.

• Knowing TVs, audio and room acoustics
• Explaining options in plain language
• Basic hands-on setup and wiring

• Check your state's sales tax registration and resale certificate rules, and any local business license
• Some states require a license for low-voltage or in-wall wiring work, so check your state's contractor board before offering installs
• General liability insurance, with cover for work in customers' homes
• Margins can be thin on popular models, so don't rely on equipment sales alone
• Brand dealer terms may restrict online pricing, so read them before you advertise
• If you store stock at home, check lease or HOA rules

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your tools, demo gear, website, insurance and any initial stock. These are estimates, and with no storefront the costs are usually lower than for a showroom.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on equipment sales, install work and your pricing. These are estimates, and margins can be thin on popular models. The work can start from about 10 hours a week.

Check your state's sales tax registration and resale certificate rules, and any local business license. Some states require a license for low-voltage or in-wall wiring, so check your contractor board. Also look at general liability insurance for work in homes.