Home-based vacuum repair bench

Households with upright, canister, robot or cordless vacuums that they would rather fix than replace, plus landlords and small offices.

A flat diagnostic fee or a set price per repair or tune-up, plus parts. Selling refurbished vacuums and replacement bags and filters can add to revenue.

• Basic electrical and mechanical know-how
• Patience for troubleshooting
• Clear communication with customers

• Check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit
• Check HOA or lease rules about customers visiting or running a business from home
• General liability insurance, since faulty repairs of electrical items carry some risk
• Customers may abandon items, so use a written drop-off form with a pickup deadline
• Check your state's sales tax rules on parts and repair labor

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your tools, parts stock and workspace. Monthly revenue is estimated at about $400 to $2,500, depending on how many repairs you take on and what you charge.

Check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit, and any HOA or lease rules on customers visiting. Also check general liability insurance, state sales tax rules on parts and labor, and use a written drop-off form.

Useful skills include basic electrical and mechanical know-how, patience for troubleshooting, and clear communication with customers. Estimates suggest at least about 6 hours a week, depending on how many jobs you take and how you handle drop-off or mail-in.