Funny,

Your last reply took the words right out of my mouth.

You asked about making a living as a reptile business....not specifically as a breeder.

There are a lot of different paths one could take.

Importer, Wholesaler, Jobber, Retailer, Brokering or running a Reptile Specialty Store. You might also consider Teaching, Consulting, or Organizing Reptile Shows in your area. Combining many of these suggestions might help to pay the bills. Your imagination is the only limitation. Be creative.



The most important thing, in my opinion, is that you make your HOBBY pay for itself first...then consider the changes you might make to transform your HOBBY into a real BUSINESS.



You enjoy the idea of having a successful reptile related business because you enjoy reptiles. But don't let the idealistic vision of a Reptile Business rob you of what you enjoy. I say give it a shot. If it begins to diminish your joy, you can always revert it back to a serious hobby (before you burn yourself out.)



I have made a living doing what I really love. And I can’t imagine doing anything else. As long as you continue to love what you are doing...you can't burn out.



I'm not saying that you won't make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. Most mistakes allow us to learn and improve our approach.

(providing you are able to recover from those mistakes!)

There are no experts. We are all learning and improving and hopefully we are also helping others whom we come into contact with.



If you can make your reptile hobby pay it's own way, then there is a strong chance that, with a few modifications, you can earn a living as a licensed business involving reptiles!



A little free advice.

...be VERY careful with credit.

Work to OWN everything involved with your business.

A little Well Managed Leverage is ok...but don't kid yourself, it can eat you alive if you neglect it. Outright ownership is always worth more than ANYTHING you must pay interest on.

Manage YOUR business....don't let it manage you.



The most valuable asset is your reputation. It takes a long time to build a good, honest, reliable reputation...and only seconds to destroy it. Your integrity is the compass which will determine where you can take your business.

Treat people right...they will always reward you for it.



Your business will require sacrifices you must make of yourself.

But you also need to maintain a balance with all the other important aspects of life. You, your family and loved ones will all appreciate your business much more if you can remember maintain that balance.



Best of luck with your hobby or business.

Hope to see you around in 20 yrs!



Harlin Wall - WALL TO WALL REPTILES!

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