Aspiring computer repair shop owner - need advice

[darkjediii]

Hi All,

It's great to have found this forum. I've been in the IT field for 12 years, and pretty much been a computer geek my whole life. I've worked as a bench tech and many other positions within IT. I work for a top IT company these days and also own my own IT consulting business with a tech working for me.

My wife and I own a small retail business (dessert). We are looking to open another location for that business as well as open a computer shop. I struck a great deal with the landlord, and if my lease application is approved, the landlord will give me another 1200sqft space to start my computer repair business for a very low rent. The space is pretty much already built out with some rooms and bathroom. I pretty much just need to do minor construction and knock down some walls and such.

There are no computer shops in that area (only Bestbuy and Staples within a 3 mile radius). I'm here hoping I could get some advice from the pros and some help to get started working with my limited budget (hoping to stay under $40,000 as our other new retail business will require alot of money to start)


I posted this in the intro forums, but I don't expect too many people to read through there. Anyone out there start a retail store front computer repair shop for under $40k? I would love to hear some advice or tips on starting my new shop! thanks in advance.

 

[darkjediii]

I got a retail location with about 200 dollars in my pocket, 40k is absurd.
Look for good deals man, send letters out to landlords that need computer help, set up an deal with them, I have free rent, it took a lot of work but it was definitely worth it, you gotta work your ass off and find some deals!

The deal that I struck with the landlord is that if we sign a lease for our dessert business/restaurant (1600sqft), he will give me a space that is 1200sqft in the same shopping center for percentage rent (under 15%) and I do not have to personally guarantee it/walk away anytime. So it's a great deal in a shopping center with great traffic. I checked with the tenants and the typical lease there is about $35-36/sqft NNN included, which is about $3500+/mo for 1200sqft.

I figured 40k because I wanted to do some light construction, make the store look nice and have some inventory and a nice repair area.

 

[darkjediii]

Thanks for the advice, very encouraging.. I would definately prefer not to spend if I do not have to!

 

[GeeksInKhakis]

store fixtures...

40k is still to much IMO.

Go light on the inventory, only stock what customers ask for a lot, or what you replace a lot.

I agree w/ Alexander, only stock what you need mainly for repairs, at first.

Also, look for businesses that are closing for 'store fixtures'. I got some really good fixtures from a Sharper Image closing (12 items in all, really well made), and a 12ft. cash counter all for under $2,000 (w/ local moving company added in). You can see pics of my shop at http://www.technibble.com/forums/showthread.php?p=68720#post68720

Good luck...it's a struggle sometimes, but worth it. (I think )