3 Ways to Become a Reseller & Make Money - The Genius Wallet

3 Ways to Become a Reseller & Make Money

Adrian Little
Adrian Little
June 27, 2023
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3 Ways to Become a Reseller & Make Money

A reseller flips properties, furniture, and even virtual real estate to create a profit. Reselling combines entrepreneurial spirit and creativity to transform forgotten treasures into lucrative investments. It’s a dynamic industry that offers various opportunities for individuals to make money and pursue their passion.

In the world of property flipping, resellers utilize their keen eye for potential and renovation skills to buy undervalued properties, make necessary improvements, and sell them for a higher price. The process involves careful analysis of the real estate market, identifying properties with untapped potential, and managing renovations efficiently to maximize returns. Below are the average profit margins in different cities for property flippers in the US:

  1. New York City: 25%
  2. Los Angeles: 20%
  3. Miami: 18%
  4. San Francisco: 22%
  5. Chicago: 15%

Similarly, furniture flipping has gained popularity in recent years. Resellers find old or neglected furniture pieces, refurbish them, and sell them at a higher price. This niche market thrives on the ability to transform outdated or worn-out furniture into stylish and desirable pieces. The table below highlights the average profits and turnaround times for different types of furniture flipping projects:

Furniture TypeAverage Profit ($)Turnaround Time (days)
Vintage Dresser$2007
Mid-Century Chair$1505
Antique Table$30010
Upholstered Sofa$2508
Rustic Coffee Table$180
6

One lesser-known yet highly lucrative domain of reselling is reseller hosting. In this digital landscape, resellers leverage their technical expertise and business acumen to provide web hosting services to clients. Reseller hosting allows individuals to purchase hosting resources from a provider and then sell them to others, earning a profit in the process. The chart below showcases the growth of reseller hosting as a business in the past five years, highlighting the revenue potential:

YearRevenue Growth (%)
201910%
202015%
202120%
202225%
202330%

Whether you choose to explore property flipping, furniture flipping, or reseller hosting, the reselling industry offers a range of opportunities for individuals to turn their passion into profit. By delving into the strategies and secrets of seasoned resellers, you can learn how to identify lucrative opportunities, navigate challenges, and maximize your earnings. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in this dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, leaving no stone unturned in your quest for reselling greatness.

Unlock the doors to a profitable future by embracing the reselling industry and harnessing your entrepreneurial spirit. Learn how to flip your future and transform forgotten treasures into financial success.

How to Flip Houses

A house reseller, in simple terms, buys houses to sell them for a profit. Like a treasure hunter in the real estate world, you must always be on the lookout for properties that have the potential to be transformed into valuable gems.

Flipping homes” starts with searching for houses in need of fixing, renovation, or improvement. To identify the right properties, house resellers employ various strategies and techniques. They analyze market trends, study neighborhood dynamics, and evaluate potential return on investment (ROI) before making a purchase. By examining historical data and comparing prices, they can determine which areas are primed for growth and where there is a high demand for renovated homes.

To illustrate this, let’s take a look at the comparison table below, which showcases three potential properties for resale:

PropertyNeighborhoodPurchase Price ($)Renovation Cost ($)Selling Price ($)Potential ROI (%)
Property ASuburban150,00050,000250,00050%
Property BUrban250,00075,000400,00040%
Property CCoastal300,000100,000550,00050%

As seen in the table, Property C, located in a coastal area, offers the highest potential ROI of 50%. This information helps house resellers prioritize their efforts and make informed decisions based on market conditions and profit potential.

To assist in the evaluation process, house resellers often create a checklist to assess the condition of potential properties. This checklist might include factors such as structural integrity, electrical and plumbing systems, cosmetic appeal, and any other specific criteria they consider essential. By systematically evaluating these aspects, they can estimate the amount of work and investment required for each property.

Once you’ve purchased a house, you’ll need to put in the effort and investment to make it more attractive and desirable to potential buyers. You can spruce up the property to make it more appealing by doing it yourself (DIY) or paying professionals.

Here’s a breakdown of common renovation tasks and their associated costs:

Renovation TaskAverage Cost ($)
Kitchen Remodel20,000 – 40,000
Bathroom Upgrade8,000 – 15,000
Flooring Replacement2,000 – 8,000
Exterior Painting3,000 – 6,000
Actual costs can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, quality of materials used, and local labor rates.

Then, you put it back on the market, intending to sell it for a higher price than you initially paid. The profit you make comes from the difference between the purchase and selling prices, considering any costs incurred during the renovation process.

Selling a renovated property requires effective marketing and pricing strategies. House resellers often work with real estate agents or use online platforms to reach potential buyers. They stage the house to showcase its best features, ensuring that it appeals to a wide range of buyers.

Let’s consider an example of the financial gains from a successful house reselling venture:

PropertyPurchase Price ($)Renovation Cost ($)Selling Price ($)Profit ($)
Property X200,00050,000350,000100,000

House reselling can be an exciting and rewarding venture if you enjoy the thrill of transforming properties and making a profit in the process. It requires a mix of creativity, business sense, and a willingness to put in the time and effort to improve the houses you buy.

By constantly analyzing the market, honing their renovation skills, and staying up to date with design trends, house resellers can maximize their chances of success. The satisfaction of breathing new life into neglected properties and the financial rewards earned through their efforts make house reselling a compelling and fulfilling pursuit.

Pros and Cons of Flipping Homes Yourself vs. Using Pros

It’s essential to consider your skills, resources, available time, and project complexity when deciding whether to pursue a DIY approach or hire professionals for fix and flip properties.

Pros of DIYCons of DIYPros of Paying ProfessionalsCons of Paying Professionals
Cost Savings: Doing the work yourself can save money on labor costs.Time and Effort: DIY projects require significant time, effort, and skill. If you lack experience or expertise, it may take longer and result in lower-quality work.Expertise and Experience: Professionals have specialized knowledge and experience, ensuring high-quality work and efficient completion of tasks.Higher Costs: Hiring professionals can be expensive, cutting into potential profits.
Flexibility and Control: DIY allows you to have complete control over the design and execution of the project. You can customize the property to your preferences.Limited Skills: DIY may not be suitable if you lack the necessary skills for certain tasks, such as electrical work or plumbing. Inadequate execution can lead to safety hazards or code violations.Time Savings: Professionals can complete the work more quickly, allowing for faster turnaround times and potential earlier property sales.Dependency on Others: Relying on professionals means coordinating schedules, managing subcontractors, and potential delays if they become unavailable or encounter issues.
Learning Opportunity: DIY projects provide a chance to learn new skills and gain knowledge about construction and renovation.Potential Mistakes: Lack of expertise increases the risk of mistakes, leading to costly errors that may require additional time and money to rectify.Liability Coverage: Professionals often have liability insurance, protecting you from potential damages or accidents during the renovation process.Quality Control: While professionals are skilled, there’s always a chance of miscommunication or subpar work, which may require additional time and effort to address.
Cost Control: DIY allows you to be more hands-on with budgeting and cost control. You can make decisions based on your financial constraints and prioritize expenses accordingly.Limited Resources: DIYers may lack access to specialized tools, equipment, or industry connections that professionals possess, potentially affecting the quality of work or efficiency.Efficiency and Workflow: Professionals are experienced in managing projects, coordinating tasks, and ensuring a smooth workflow, reducing the risk of delays or disruptions.Less Personalization: Working with professionals may limit your ability to customize every detail, as they may follow established industry standards or practices.

Flip Furniture

A furniture flipper is a creative individual who possesses the skills to transform old or worn-out furniture into something truly remarkable. By utilizing their expertise and artistic flair, they can turn a dusty, neglected piece of furniture into a stunning work of art.

To showcase the impact of furniture flipping, let’s take a look at a comparison table that highlights the transformation process and the potential profit margin:

Traditional FurnitureFlipped Furniture
Old, worn-out appearanceBeautiful, revitalized look
Limited functionalityEnhanced functionality
Low market valueIncreased market value
Negligible buyer interestHigh demand and buyer appeal
Low selling priceLucrative profit potential

The essence of furniture flipping lies in breathing new life into forgotten furnishings and making them shine again. It’s a gratifying experience to witness the final result—a beautiful piece of furniture that can rival those showcased in fancy showrooms.

To embark on a successful furniture flipping journey, it’s important to source furniture with great bones that require a little tender loving care (TLC). Various places such as thrift stores, garage sales, or online platforms are treasure troves for finding solid and sturdy furniture, even if their outer appearance is worn or outdated.

The goal of a furniture flipper is to elevate the aesthetics and functionality of the furniture, thereby making it irresistible to potential buyers. Below are some popular techniques used by furniture flippers to enhance different aspects of the furniture:

Aspect of FurnitureEnhancement Techniques
AestheticsRefinishing, repainting, adding decorative elements
FunctionalityRepairing, replacing hardware, improving storage
ComfortReupholstering, adding cushions or padding
DurabilityReinforcing joints, applying protective finishes

Once the furniture has been skillfully transformed, it can be sold for a profitable sum. People who appreciate unique and upcycled furniture are often willing to pay a higher price for these beautifully revamped pieces. Here’s a chart that highlights the potential profit margin based on the initial investment and the selling price:

Initial InvestmentSelling PricePotential Profit
$100$300$200
$250$600$350
$500$1,200$700

Furniture flipping allows individuals to combine their passion for design with their DIY skills to generate additional income. It’s a fulfilling endeavor that breathes new life into old furniture, bringing joy to both the flipper and the buyers.

7 Tips for Fix and Flip Furnishings

When you are upcycling furniture, there are a few strategies to keep in mind that can enhance the furniture’s appeal and increase its market value:

  • Choose Quality Pieces: Look for sturdy frames, solid wood, or durable materials that can withstand upcycling and provide a solid foundation for your improvements. Here is a chart highlighting the different types of wood and their characteristics:
Wood TypeCharacteristics
Oak– High durability and strength
– Prominent grain patterns and natural beauty
– Resistant to moisture and wear
Walnut– Rich, dark color with beautiful grain
– Moderate hardness and excellent workability
– Resistant to warping and shrinking
Maple– Light-colored wood with minimal grain
– Hard and durable, ideal for heavy-use furniture
– Resistant to scratches and wear
Mahogany– Deep, reddish-brown color with an elegant appearance
– High stability and resistance to shrinking and warping
– Fine, even texture and easy to work with
Cherry– Warm reddish-brown color that darkens with age
– Moderately hard and durable, ideal for furniture
– Resistant to decay and insect infestations
Reclaimed– Eco-friendly choice made from recycled or salvaged wood
– Unique and rustic appearance
– Adds character and history to upcycled furniture
Teak– Rich golden-brown color and naturally oily surface
– Highly resistant to rot, decay, and pests
– Ideal for outdoor furniture due to its durability
  • Clean and Prep: Thoroughly clean the furniture to remove dirt, grime, and any existing finishes. Repair any damages, such as loose joints, broken parts, or scratches, to ensure the surface is smooth and ready for refinishing.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide for Upcycling Furniture:

  1. Remove loose dirt and debris: Begin by using a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris from the furniture’s surface.
  2. Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix a mild detergent or dish soap with warm water in a bucket or spray bottle. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the furniture’s finish.
  3. Test on a small area: Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire piece, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.
  4. Wipe down the furniture: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution, wring out excess moisture, and gently wipe down the furniture’s surface. Pay attention to any stubborn stains or spots, and apply a bit more pressure if needed.
  5. Clean crevices and intricate details: Use a soft-bristled brush, toothbrush, or cotton swab to clean hard-to-reach areas, crevices, and intricate details. This will help remove dirt and grime from corners, carvings, and decorative elements.
  6. Rinse with clean water: After cleaning, dampen a clean cloth with plain water and wipe down the furniture to remove any soap residue.
  7. Dry thoroughly: Allow the furniture to air dry completely. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or using heat sources, as this can cause warping or damage to certain materials.
  • Refinish or Paint: Consider refinishing the wood surfaces to highlight the grain’s natural beauty. Sand down the existing finish, apply a fresh stain or sealant, and add a protective topcoat. Alternatively, paint can transform the look of furniture dramatically. Below is a color palette guide comparing different wood finishes:
  1. Natural Wood Finish:
    • Description: Retains the original color and grain of the wood.
    • Characteristics: Light, warm, and showcases the natural beauty of the wood.
    • Example: Light oak or maple.
  2. Stained Finish:
    • Description: Enhances the color of the wood while still allowing the grain to show through.
    • Characteristics: Can range from light to dark shades depending on the stain used.
    • Example: Dark walnut or cherry.
  3. Painted Finish:
    • Description: Completely covers the natural wood and provides a solid color.
    • Characteristics: Offers a wide range of color options and can be customized to match any style.
    • Example: Crisp white, vintage blue, or charcoal gray.
  4. Distressed Finish:
    • Description: Gives furniture an aged or weathered appearance.
    • Characteristics: Can include techniques like sanding, chipping, or applying a crackle finish.
    • Example: Antique white with distressed edges or a weathered gray.
  5. Whitewash Finish:
    • Description: Lightly applies a white or light-colored paint to create a washed-out effect.
    • Characteristics: Adds a subtle, rustic look while allowing the wood grain to show.
    • Example: Whitewashed oak or pine.
  6. Two-Tone Finish:
    • Description: Uses two different finishes on different parts of the furniture piece.
    • Characteristics: Offers contrast and visual interest by combining colors or finishes.
    • Example: Dark stained top with a painted base.

Remember, this is just a starting point, and you can experiment with different finishes and techniques to achieve your desired look.

Genius Tip

It’s always a good idea to test the finish on a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture piece before applying it to the entire surface.

  • Hardware Upgrades: Replace worn or outdated hardware such as drawer pulls, knobs, hinges, or handles. Here is a chart showcasing different styles of hardware, their finishes, and some locations where to find them:
Hardware StyleFinish OptionsWhere to Find
Classic Brass– Polished Brass
– Antique Brass
– Satin Brass
– Home Depot
– Lowe’s
– Restoration Hardware
Modern Chrome– Polished Chrome
– Brushed Chrome
– Black Chrome
– Amazon
– IKEA
– Wayfair
Vintage Bronze– Oil-Rubbed Bronze
– Aged Bronze
– Antique Pewter
– Anthropologie
– Rejuvenation
– House of Antique Hardware
Industrial Steel– Raw Steel
– Blackened Steel
– Gunmetal
– Etsy
– Signature Hardware
– Overstock
Rustic Iron– Wrought Iron
– Hammered Iron
– Rustic Copper
– Van Dyke’s Restorers
– Historic Houseparts
– House of Antique Hardware
Vintage Glass– Clear Glass
– Frosted Glass
– Colored Glass
– Rejuvenation
– House of Antique Hardware
– Etsy
  • Upholstery and Fabrics: If the furniture has fabric elements like cushions or upholstery, consider reupholstering them with new and appealing fabrics. Choose high-quality, durable materials that complement the overall style of the piece. The table below compares different upholstery fabrics, their durability, and cleaning requirements:
Upholstery FabricDurabilityCleaning Requirements
LeatherHighRegular dusting and occasional conditioning
LinenModerateSpot cleaning or professional cleaning
VelvetModerate to highVacuuming and professional cleaning
MicrofiberHighVacuuming and spot cleaning with mild detergent
PolyesterModerate to highVacuuming and spot cleaning with mild detergent
CottonModerateMachine washable or professional cleaning
WoolHighRegular vacuuming and professional cleaning
ChenilleModerateVacuuming and spot cleaning with mild detergent
SilkLow to moderateDry cleaning only
AcrylicModerateVacuuming and spot cleaning with mild detergent
Please note that these durability ratings and cleaning requirements are general guidelines, and it’s always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific fabrics.
  • Decorative Techniques: Consider distressing for a vintage or rustic look, stenciling for patterned designs, or decoupaging for artistic flair. These techniques can create eye-catching focal points and make your pieces stand out. Decorative techniques can include:
    • Painted Furniture:
      • Choose a paint color that complements the style and desired look of the piece.
      • Sand the surface lightly to create a smooth base to which the paint can adhere.
      • Apply a coat of primer to enhance paint adhesion and prevent stains from bleeding through.
      • Once the primer is dry, apply multiple thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely.
      • Consider adding decorative elements like stencils, stripes, or patterns using different colors of paint.
    • Distressed Furniture:
      • Paint the furniture with a base color, such as white, cream, or pastel.
      • Once the base coat is dry, lightly sand certain areas, like corners, edges, and raised details, to create a distressed look.
      • Apply a dark or contrasting color of paint over the sanded areas, focusing on the edges and corners.
      • Use a damp cloth or sandpaper to gently remove some of the top coat in areas where natural wear would occur.
      • Seal the distressed finish with a clear topcoat to protect the furniture.
    • Decoupage:
      • Choose decorative paper, fabric, or even napkins with patterns or designs you like.
      • Clean and sand the surface of the furniture.
      • Apply a thin layer of decoupage glue or Mod Podge to the area where you want to attach the decorative material.
      • Carefully place the material onto the glued surface and smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles.
      • Apply another coat of decoupage glue or Mod Podge over the material, gently brushing it in all directions to ensure adhesion.
      • Let it dry completely and repeat the process for additional layers if desired.
      • Finish with a final topcoat of decoupage glue or varnish to protect the design.
    • Stenciling:
      • Choose a stencil design that complements the furniture’s style.
      • Position the stencil on the furniture and secure it with painter’s tape.
      • Use a stencil brush or sponge applicator to dab paint onto the stencil, starting from the outer edges and working inward.
      • Apply multiple thin coats to achieve the desired opacity, allowing each coat to dry before adding the next.
      • Carefully remove the stencil while the paint is still slightly wet to avoid smudging.
      • Clean the stencil before repositioning it for the next section or pattern.
  • Functionality and Versatility: Enhance the functionality of the furniture by incorporating additional features or storage options. This table illustrates a few different storage solutions:
Storage SolutionBenefitsDrawbacks
Built-in Shelves– Provides visible storage
– Organizes items neatly
– Showcases decorative items
– Less flexible
– Limited customization options
– Requires permanent installation
Hidden Compartments– Maximizes space utilization
– Conceals valuable or personal items
– Enhances security and privacy
– Limited storage capacity
– May require specialized skills
– Potential for complex mechanisms
Convertible Designs– Offers versatile functionality
– Saves space with multi-purpose use
– Adapts to changing needs
– May be more expensive
– Mechanisms may require upkeep
– Limited customization options
  • Market Insights: You can effectively upscale furniture and create appealing pieces that attract buyers and command higher prices. However, it is essential to stay informed about current design trends, customer preferences, and market demands. Here are some design styles, colors, and furniture styles that are currently in high demand:
Design StylesTrending ColorsHigh-Demand Furniture Styles
– Mid-Century
– Modern
– Scandinavian
– Industrial
– Bohemian
– Farmhouse
– Soft Pastels
– Earth Tones
– Jewel Tones
– Neutral Palettes
– Moody Blues
– Minimalist
– Multifunctional
– Vintage/Retro
– Art Deco
– Sustainable

You can effectively upscale furniture and create appealing pieces that attract buyers and command higher prices.

Genius Tip

Remember to stay informed about current design trends, customer preferences, and market demands to ensure your upcycled furniture aligns with the evolving needs of potential buyers.

Reseller Hosting

You know how some people buy products or services at wholesale prices and then sell them at retail prices for a profit? Well, reseller web hosting works similarly, but it takes place entirely in the digital world.

By partnering with an established hosting provider, you can create your own mini-hosting business without the need to start from scratch. The hosting provider already has all the necessary infrastructure, including fancy servers, technical expertise, and robust support systems. This means you can focus on building your customer base and growing your hosting business, without having to worry about the technical nitty-gritty.

One of the most appealing aspects of reseller hosting is that the hosting provider takes care of all the server maintenance, software updates, and security measures. They handle the heavy lifting, ensuring that your customers’ websites are always up and running smoothly. This allows you to concentrate on managing customer relationships, providing support, and expanding your services.

As a reseller hosting entrepreneur, you have the freedom to set your prices and create customized hosting plans tailored to your target market. You even have the option to brand the services with your own logo and name, giving your business a professional and personalized touch. Essentially, you get to experience the benefits of running a hosting company without the headache of managing all the technical backend stuff.

Let’s consider a comparison between starting a hosting company from scratch and opting for reseller hosting:

Starting a Hosting Company from ScratchReseller Web Hosting
Requires significant upfront investment in infrastructureMinimal upfront investment as you leverage the infrastructure of an established hosting provider
Technical expertise needed for server setup and maintenanceTechnical aspects are handled by the hosting provider
Time-consuming process of building a customer base from scratchYou can start acquiring customers immediately by leveraging the hosting provider’s reputation
Higher risk and uncertainty in a competitive marketLower risk as you operate within an established hosting provider’s ecosystem
Requires ongoing efforts to keep up with technology advancementsThe hosting provider ensures regular software updates and security measures

7 Tips for Thriving in the Reseller Web Hosting Industry

Following the tips below, you can be better prepared to establish and grow a reseller web hosting business that attracts and retains loyal customers while maintaining a solid industry reputation.

  • Partner with a reputable hosting provider: Choosing the right hosting provider is crucial for the success of your reseller web hosting business. Consider partnering with a provider that has reliable infrastructure, excellent customer support, and a solid reputation in the industry. To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison table of some popular hosting providers:
Hosting ProviderInfrastructure ReliabilityCustomer SupportIndustry Reputation
BluehostHighExcellentGood
SiteGroundVery HighExceptionalExcellent
HostGatorModerateGoodFair
  • Design competitive hosting plans: To attract customers, it’s essential to offer hosting plans that are competitive in terms of features, pricing, and resources. Consider the needs of different types of customers to provide flexibility for them to easily upgrade or downgrade their hosting plans as their needs change. Here’s a chart comparing the features and pricing of different hosting plans:
Hosting PlanPrice (per month)Disk SpaceBandwidthEmail AccountsFree SSL
Basic$9.9950GB500GB10Yes
Advanced$19.99100GB1TB25Yes
Pro$29.99UnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedYes
  • Ensure responsive customer support: Building a loyal customer base requires providing excellent customer support. Ensure you have a responsive support team to address customer inquiries and technical issues promptly. Fast and reliable customer support will enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Communicate your unique brand message: Differentiate your reseller hosting business by communicating your unique brand message. Emphasize your strengths and highlight any additional services or features you offer beyond standard hosting. This will help you stand out from the competition.
  • Invest in a well-designed website: Your website serves as a crucial touchpoint for potential customers. Invest in a well-designed website that showcases your hosting plans, features, and customer testimonials. Ensure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and optimized for search engines to attract organic traffic.
  • Utilize various marketing channels: To promote your reseller hosting business, utilize various marketing channels such as social media, content marketing, and paid advertising. Target your marketing efforts towards your ideal customer base to generate quality leads. Here’s a chart showcasing the effectiveness of different marketing channels:
Marketing ChannelEffectiveness
Social MediaHigh
Content MarketingMedium
Paid AdvertisingHigh
Email MarketingMedium
Referral Programs
High
  • Emphasize the importance of security: In today’s digital landscape, security is of utmost importance. Assure potential customers that your hosting services will secure their online presence. Implement robust security measures such as SSL certificates, regular backups, and malware scanning. Here’s a comparison table showcasing the security features offered by different hosting providers:
Hosting ProviderSSL CertificatesRegular BackupsMalware Scanning
BluehostYesDailyYes
SiteGroundYesWeeklyYes
HostGatorYesMonthly
Yes

By implementing these strategies and utilizing the provided charts and tables, you’ll be well-equipped to establish and grow a successful reseller web hosting business.