Opening a Used clothing and Misc. Store

[kimandkathess]

Hi all

As some of may know, I own and operate a group family daycare business out of my home.

I have always loved working for myself and want to continue to do this. I don't want to keep doing family daycare though.

I have been thinking long and hard about making some changes in my life.

I would love to open my own used clothing and other used items store(kids toys and etc.) Basically a second hand store/thriftshop. One reason being is because it's a good business to get into. People are always looking for secondhand items for their childrem. And second because it's a business that I could potentially pick up and move one day to another location.

Does anyone else on here own their own buisiness (either online or offline) What do you think?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[mlitt]

I do - not related to retail though. I am a finance person and I would say make sure you run the numbers - three scenarios worst, best and realistic. Make sure to do your proper research - i.e. it might be a good idea to family/friends but ask those who are not family friends to weigh in - they will be the real audience and reality. look at your competition very, very closely (on AND offline) find a niche and make sure the revenue will recur in your community. By all means consider the hours of operation, payroll and staffing. When it comes to financing make sure you have ample access to cash - start up costs are always more than you think so plan for it. If you can do it with a partner that you trust to carry an equal workload/investment and is passionate about it as you are that helps. Make sure you have a steady income from another source (either sig. other or ...)so your personal life is not affected and you can continue to live. There is a lot to consider but these are the main points. My business is brick and mortar and its one of the best things that I have ever done and its a very big commitment. There are ups and downs like any job and its for you! good luck! Happy Thanksgiving!

[biggins]

I did it for years & adult clothes in my area were not worth the space they took up.

Mens work clothes did really well at the flea market which is 1 hr away.

I do NOT do well with ill behaved children so tried to steer clear of kiddie stuff.

I'd start with a little bit of everything to see what did well in my particular area, then go from there.