Mobile blinds and shades consultant

Homeowners, landlords, property managers and small offices who want help choosing and fitting window coverings.

You mark up the products you order and add a fee for measuring and installation. Larger jobs such as whole-house orders bring in the most per visit.

• Accurate measuring
• Basic hand and power tool use
• Customer service and a good eye for style
• Quoting and organizing orders

• General liability insurance, and check whether your supplier or customers require it
• Check with your state and city or county about business license and sales tax registration, since rules on reselling products and charging for installation vary
• Some states and cities require a contractor license above certain job values, check your state licensing board
• Measuring mistakes on custom orders can be costly, so confirm each order's return and remake policy before ordering
• Child safety rules for corded window coverings, ask suppliers about compliant products

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on your sample range, tools and marketing. These are estimates, so get supplier terms and tool prices before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many jobs you win and how large they are. That is revenue before costs, and the work can start at around 12 hours a week.

Check your state and city or county for business license and sales tax registration, and ask your state licensing board about contractor licenses above certain job values. Also check general liability insurance and child safety rules for corded window coverings.