Home-Based playground equipment dealer

Public and private schools, city and county parks departments, childcare centers, churches, HOAs and apartment communities.

A commission from the manufacturer or a markup on equipment, surfacing and installation. Projects are large but infrequent, so income can be uneven.

• Consultative selling
• Reading site plans and quotes
• Following up patiently with budget-holders
• Project coordination

• General liability insurance, and check whether the manufacturer or your customers require specific coverage
• Public playgrounds are expected to meet safety standards such as ASTM and CPSC guidelines, and ADA accessibility, so check what applies to each project
• Check whether your state needs a contractor license if you manage or subcontract installation
• Government bids can require bonds, registration or prevailing wage rules, so check with the buying agency
• Sales cycles can follow school budget years and grants, so plan for months with no income

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your setup and how you find customers. Treat this as an estimate and confirm what each manufacturer you represent expects from its dealers.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on how many projects you close. Sales cycles can follow school budget years and grants, so plan for months with no income.

Check general liability coverage and whether manufacturers or customers require specific policies. Check which safety standards apply, such as ASTM, CPSC guidelines and ADA accessibility, whether your state needs a contractor license, and bid rules with each government agency.