Start a local video game shop

Local gamers, families, collectors and people trading in old games for cash or store credit.

Sales of used and new items, trade-in margins, accessories, repairs and sometimes in-store events or tournaments. Used stock usually earns a better margin than new releases.

• Knowing games, consoles and prices
• Customer service
• Basic console testing and cleaning
• Inventory and cash handling

• Check your state's sales tax registration and any resale or secondhand dealer rules, as some places require records of used goods purchases
• Lease terms and rent can be the biggest risk, so negotiate carefully
• General liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• New game margins are thin and online competition is strong, so lean on used stock, trade-ins and community

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your lease, stock, fixtures and insurance. Rent can be the biggest risk, so negotiate lease terms carefully before you commit.

Check your state's sales tax registration and any resale or secondhand dealer rules, as some places require records of used goods purchases. Also look at general liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your location, stock and trade-in volume. The estimate assumes at least about 40 hours a week. New game margins are thin, so used stock matters.