Online outdoor furniture store

Homeowners and renters shopping online for patio, deck and balcony furniture, often looking for a specific style or size.

Markup on each item sold, with extra from accessories like covers and cushions. Shipping costs for bulky items need to be built into prices.

• Setting up an online store
• Writing clear product descriptions and choosing good photos
• Handling customer questions and returns

• Sales tax rules for online sellers vary by state, check your state's revenue department
• Freight damage and high return costs on bulky items, check supplier return and damage policies before you list
• Reliance on supplier stock levels and delivery times, which can lead to late orders and bad reviews
• General liability and product liability insurance, check what your supplier covers
• Check product safety and labeling rules for items like fire pits, which can vary by state
• Running stock from your garage may need a home occupation permit and must respect HOA or lease rules

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you hold, how you set up your website and which suppliers you use. These are estimates only, so build your own budget from real supplier quotes.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your product range, pricing, marketing and the hours you put in. The idea assumes at least 15 hours a week. These are estimates, and revenue is not the same as profit.

Check your state revenue department's sales tax rules for online sellers. Also check supplier return and damage policies for bulky freight, insurance coverage, product safety and labeling rules for items like fire pits, and any home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules if you store stock at home.