Mobile rug consultant with samples

Homeowners who dislike shopping in big stores, interior designers, home stagers and real estate agents staging homes.

Markup on each rug ordered, plus rug pads and delivery. Some consultants charge a small visit fee that is credited toward a purchase.

• Sense of style and room proportions
• Measuring and sizing a space
• Relationship building with designers

• Check your state's sales tax registration and local business license rules for selling from home or on the road
• General liability insurance, especially when entering clients' homes
• Check home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules if you store samples at home
• Long supplier lead times and made-to-order items that are hard to return, so set expectations clearly

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $2,500 to $12,000, depending on the size of your sample collection, supplier accounts and transport. Check any home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules if you store samples at home.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on how many homeowners and designers you work with. Long supplier lead times and made-to-order items can slow sales, so set expectations clearly.

Check your state's sales tax registration and local business license rules for selling from home or on the road. Also check general liability insurance, especially when entering clients' homes, and home occupation permit or HOA rules.