Hot tub and spa showroom

Homeowners, vacation rental owners and people upgrading an older tub.

Margin on each tub sold, plus add-ons like covers, steps and chemicals, and fees for delivery, service and repair work.

• Friendly, honest selling
• Basic mechanical and electrical understanding
• Managing stock and suppliers

• Inventory is a big cost, so check dealer terms and financing carefully
• Sales tax registration and a local business license, check with your state and city
• Electrical hookups often must be done by a licensed electrician, check your state's rules
• Sales are seasonal in many areas, so plan your cash flow
• General liability and product liability insurance

Startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on your location, how many display tubs you carry and how much inventory you stock. Inventory is a big cost, so check dealer terms and financing carefully before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $75,000, depending on your area, the brands you sell, your prices and your sales volume. Sales are seasonal in many areas, so plan your cash flow for slower months.

Check sales tax registration and a local business license with your state and city. Electrical hookups often must be done by a licensed electrician, so check your state's rules. Also look into general liability and product liability insurance.