Typewriter repair and supplies shop

Local writers, collectors, students, offices that still use typewriters, and people with inherited machines that need fixing.

Repair and servicing fees, sales of refurbished machines, and steady sales of ribbons and accessories. Online orders for ribbons can add income beyond walk-in trade.

• Typewriter repair and adjustment
• Customer service
• Basic bookkeeping and stock control

• Check with your city or county for a local business license and zoning rules for retail
• Register for sales tax with your state and check what applies to repairs versus goods
• General liability insurance is worth checking, especially with customers visiting
• Demand can be thin in small towns, so test it with a market stall or booth before signing a long lease

Estimates put startup costs at typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the space you rent, the repair tools and stock you buy, and how many refurbished machines, ribbons and supplies you carry at the start.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many repairs you take on, how many refurbished machines you sell and your supplies sales. Demand can be thin in small towns, so test it first.

Check with your city or county for a local business license and retail zoning rules. Register for sales tax with your state and check what applies to repairs versus goods. General liability insurance is also worth checking, especially with customers visiting.