Start a home staging consulting business

Home sellers, and real estate agents who want their listings to photograph and show well.

A flat fee for a consultation and written plan, plus an hourly or per-project rate if you do the hands-on styling. Repeat work often comes from agents who refer their listings.

• Eye for layout, color and decor
• Tactful with sellers who are attached to their homes
• Organized and able to give clear, written advice

• General liability insurance, since you will be working in clients' homes and moving their belongings
• Check with your city or county whether a business license is needed
• Put the scope in writing so sellers know you give advice and are not guaranteeing a sale or price
• Agent referrals take time to build, so early income can be uneven

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $2,000, depending on what accessories, tools, insurance and marketing materials you buy. This is an estimate, so list your own costs before you commit to a budget.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many consultations you book and what you charge. These are estimates, and early income can be uneven while agent referrals build. The idea assumes about 6 hours a week at minimum.

Check general liability insurance, since you work in clients' homes and move their belongings. Check with your city or county whether a business license is needed. Put your scope in writing so sellers know you advise and do not guarantee a sale or price.