Mobility aids showroom and rental shop

Older adults and their families, people with disabilities, assisted living and care homes, and local clinics or therapists who refer patients.

Retail margin on equipment sales, rental fees, and repeat supply contracts with care facilities. Some items may be billed to insurers once you are set up.

• Customer service with a caring manner
• Knowledge of mobility products and fitting
• Inventory and basic bookkeeping

• Check state rules on selling or renting durable medical equipment and whether a local business license is needed
• Billing Medicare or insurers requires enrollment and accreditation, which can take months, so check requirements first
• General liability and product liability insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Sales tax registration with your state, and whether medical items are exempt
• Lease costs and inventory tied up in stock, so start with a small range

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your lease, showroom fit-out and how much stock you buy. These are estimates, and starting with a small range keeps less cash tied up in inventory.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your sales and rental mix, location and stock range. Lease costs and inventory tied up in stock are important to plan around.

Check state rules on selling or renting durable medical equipment and whether a local business license is needed. Billing Medicare or insurers requires enrollment and accreditation that can take months. Also check insurance, workers' compensation once you hire, and state sales tax registration.