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I would like to target my location along Ocean Drive close to piers/hotels further down strip in more residential neighborhoods and not MB proper. Population of towns further south is less since most are vacation homes and not hotels as in MBeach. Avg population is 2-3 thousand residents in these areas - most are not year round residents. March thru October are high vacation months and houses that are rented are usually full. So yes, my annual revenues will have to be within 8-9 months of year.

Majority (not all) of Convenience stores are further from ocean drive (8+ blocks) at gas stations. I would be targeting those that can walk to store, fishing along pier, and the guests of 1-2 hotels, and drive bys. And of course, not too close to another Cstore. As we all know location is key but rent around Ocean Drive may end up being very prohibitive - in addition to alot less foot traffic than Myrtle Beach .

As mentioned, I am just starting research and not even close to business plan stage as yet. I will be in SC in a few weeks to do the real legwork research.

Guess at this point I was wondering if there was a "rule of thumb/ range" of costs / revenues. I don't plan on taking out loans for business. Is it realistic to think I can fully set up and stock a store on 25K or less? I project monthly expenses to be 25K - is that too low of a projection or too high (based on 2500 month rent). Are avg month sales 10, 30, 50K month? Bottom line, is it possible to cover my own personal monthly expenses (which I can do now on a 75K yr salary).

I started this by wondering how around my neighborhood in lower Westchester NY, there are 5 deli's within 4 blocks and they are all obviously making it since they've all been open over 5 yrs each. Yes, I realize the population is much much higher but 5 in one small area?? How much are each of them making per month to pay Westchester rents, which as you NY'ers know is high and themselves? So on that note, I thought, if they can do it so can I!

I think to begin with I'll rent. I do have real estate contacts in this location and they'll be able to advise what's best on space. I too think I'm low balling it . The average scenario you stated is what I'm coming across also.

As I get some hands on research down there, I'll have a more realistic view of the areas. I'll take it slow, carefully research and prepare. I too am a big believer that planning is the key to success and I'm not in a rush.

Thanks also for your direct contact email address as I may need your help down the road.

Minnie