How can I turn my passion for model railroading into a thriving business?

Public Comments

1. 1. Building kits for others to use to build their towns etc....extensions etc. 2. Buy some model trains real cheap at an auction and resell them for a tad bit more to go with the town settings? 3. Figure out a bridge building kit for easy assembling. 4. Build old time stores with their signs hanging from them?
2. There are so many outlets in the age of the 'net. I'd search some Yahoo GROUPS and use that as a free format for buying / selling / trading. If your handiwork is good, I'd go along with what Miss Ellie says: making scale size stores, landscapes, etc could be VERY lucrative!!! Here are a couple (1100 members): http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HOmodelers?v=1&t=search&ch=web&pub=groups&sec=group&slk=1 (1100 members) http://groups.yahoo.com/group/One-20point3?v=1&t=search&ch=web&pub=groups&sec=group&slk=6 (5000 members) http://groups.yahoo.com/group/n_scale?v=1&t=search&ch=web&pub=groups&sec=group&slk=7
3. Think "holidays" and market strategically. Your passion will show through in your quality. But don't ever underestimate the power of effective advertising! People won't buy if they don't know about you. Here's a thought too. Market to differing demographics. The first idea that came to my head with regard to the holidays (or anytime, really) is kids. What about a simple kit that a young child can build? And themes. What about old west? Turn of the century? etc. And collectability. Research that aspect too. I think old Lionells in good shape are worth something. Best of luck.