Start a lawn mower and outdoor power equipment shop

Homeowners, small landscaping crews, rental property owners and neighbors who need a mower fixed or replaced.

Margins on equipment, parts and accessories, plus labor charges for repairs, blade sharpening and spring tune-ups. Servicing tends to bring repeat customers.

• Small engine repair
• Customer service
• Inventory and ordering
• Basic bookkeeping

• Check your state for a sales tax permit and resale certificate for retail sales
• General liability and property insurance; check coverage for stored fuel and equipment you are repairing for customers
• Rules for storing gasoline, oil and batteries, and disposing of used fluids; check with your local fire marshal and environmental agency
• Dealer agreements can require minimum orders or stock levels, so read terms carefully
• Sales are seasonal, so plan cash flow for slower winter months

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, stock of mowers, parts and tools, and repair bench setup. Read any dealer agreement carefully, as some require minimum orders or stock levels.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on sales, parts and repair work. Sales are seasonal, so plan your cash flow for slower winter months.

Check your state for a sales tax permit and resale certificate. Also check insurance coverage for stored fuel and customers' equipment, rules for storing gasoline, oil and batteries and disposing of used fluids with your fire marshal and environmental agency, and dealer terms.