Local reptile shop

Hobbyist reptile keepers, first-time buyers, parents buying for kids and local breeders or schools needing supplies.

Margin on animal sales plus repeat purchases of food, bulbs, substrate and enclosures, which usually bring customers back more often than animal sales do.

• Solid reptile care knowledge
• Customer service and honest advice
• Basic inventory and bookkeeping

• Check your state and local rules on selling live reptiles, including banned or restricted species and any pet dealer license
• Check federal and state rules on selling turtles, plus salmonella handwashing and signage requirements
• General liability insurance, and consider coverage for livestock loss
• Animal care costs: heat, electricity, vet bills and unsold livestock eat into margins
• Sales tax registration with your state and a local business license

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $80,000, depending on your premises, how much livestock and equipment you stock, and your fit-out. Get quotes for rent, enclosures, heating and insurance before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, stock mix and repeat customers. Heat, electricity, vet bills and unsold livestock eat into margins, so revenue is not the same as profit.

Check your state and local rules on selling live reptiles, including banned or restricted species and any pet dealer license. Also check federal and state rules on selling turtles, salmonella signage, sales tax registration and a local business license.