Freelance marketing consultant for local businesses

Local shops, restaurants, home service companies, clinics and other small businesses that have no in-house marketing person.

Monthly retainer for ongoing advice and campaign management, or a fixed fee per project such as a brand refresh or a launch plan. Some consultants also charge hourly for strategy calls.

• Understanding of marketing basics and local advertising
• Clear writing and presenting ideas
• Reading simple results like web traffic and sales
• Winning clients and managing your own time

• Check whether your city or county requires a business license, and whether your home address needs a home occupation permit or fits HOA or lease rules
• Consider professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, and general liability insurance if you meet clients in person
• Use written contracts that define scope, deliverables and payment terms so you avoid unpaid extra work
• Be careful not to promise specific sales results, since many factors are outside your control
• Check your state's rules on sales tax for services and set aside money for self-employment taxes

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $2,500, depending on your equipment, software and how you find clients. These are estimates only, and your own total may differ based on the insurance you choose and any local permits you need.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $5,000, depending on how many clients you take on and whether you charge retainers or project fees. These are estimates, not guarantees, and they assume at least about 8 hours of work a week.

Check whether your city or county requires a business license, and whether a home occupation permit or HOA or lease rules apply. Also look into professional liability insurance, your state's sales tax rules for services, and self-employment taxes.