How to Start a Model Home Merchandising Business

by Kathryn Christ

Overview

Bring beauty, comfort and sophistication to the surroundings of potential home buyers while using your creative and artistic talents. Capitalize on your skills by crafting an environment that makes it easier for home builders to sell their wares. With basic business skills in organization, marketing and finance, you can start your model home merchandising business, create a list of prospects, and bring the profits home.

Step 1

Decide if you will operate as a sole proprietor or incorporate. File the necessary paperwork and fees for your community. Find information on incorporation on your state's Division of Corporations' Web site. Learn about business licenses on your county's Web site.
Step 2

Develop a business plan defining your model home merchandising business (see Reference 1). Include information on your unique niche and the special skills you bring to the industry.
Step 3

Create a portfolio showcasing your best work. Include a variety of rooms---family areas, entertaining areas, bedrooms, outdoor living spaces. Highlight your use of color, style, and texture. Show the full range of your design expertise.
Step 4

Research the national, regional, and local home builders in your area. Create a list of prospects. Contact each of the builders and set an appointment to show your portfolio and discuss the benefits of working with your firm.
Step 5

Follow up. Just one appointment usually doesn't turn into a sale. Maintain contact with the builders you've met. Provide them with interesting and useful tips on improving the appeal of model homes.
Step 6

Ask for the project. Tell the builder that you want to work with her. Create new sketches that would highlight a new community.

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Business plan Portfolio Fabric swatches Color swatches
Business plan
Portfolio
Fabric swatches
Color swatches
Tailor your presentation to each individual builder.
Tailor your presentation to each individual builder.
Consult an attorney when deciding on a corporate structure. Mistakes can have long-term consequences.
Consult an attorney when deciding on a corporate structure. Mistakes can have long-term consequences.