Home lighting consultant

Homeowners doing a remodel or build, plus interior designers, builders and real estate agents preparing a home for sale.

A flat fee per room or per project, or an hourly consultation rate. Some consultants add a fee for shopping lists and a follow-up visit once the lights are in.

• Good eye for design and space
• Reading floor plans
• Explaining ideas clearly to non-experts

• Do not do electrical work yourself unless you hold the right state license, check your state's contractor and electrical licensing board
• Some states restrict the title 'interior designer', check how you can describe your services
• General liability and professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance
• Check city or county business license rules and any home occupation permit if you meet clients at home

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on your tools, insurance and how you set up. Because you visit clients' homes and an electrician handles installation, you do not need a workshop or large stock.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many clients and projects you take on. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week, and revenue is not the same as profit.

Check your state's contractor and electrical licensing board, and do not do electrical work yourself unless you hold the right license. Also check how your state lets you describe your services, plus city or county business license and home occupation rules.