If you’re trying to get into e-commerce, you’ve probably seen or heard about done-for-you (DFY) stores. These are ready-made stores that you can purchase to start an online business. Some people claim that they’re the fastest way to launch a profitable business. Others warn they’re just a waste of money. So, what’s the truth?
Get a clearer understanding of the pros and cons of DFY Shopify stores. Get clear answers to common concerns and misconceptions around them. Plus, find out who should really buy and not buy one. Let’s get started!
Pros of DFY Shopify Stores
Done-for-you stores may come with the following benefits:
Saves Time and Money
Building your own store takes time, especially in terms of design. For beginners, this process can take weeks or even months. DFY stores let you skip this step and focus on other aspects of your business.
Furthermore, you can save a lot of money from costly mistakes if you find a well-built store. These mistakes can include designing the store’s structure, choosing themes and apps, or setting up payment gateways. With a store made for you, you can avoid making these mistakes.
They’re Ready to Go
These stores come pre-built with all the necessary aspects and apps you might need. They can either be a profitable store that’s already running or one built solely for resale. This means once bought, you can launch your business as soon as you want. Just add your products, and you can establish your authority and expertise quickly. You don’t have to spend too much time learning just how to create a store.
No Technical Setup Needed
A major concern for new entrepreneurs is dealing with the technical side of starting a store. This typically isn’t an issue with DFY stores. Someone with the right skills and knowledge can do it for you. It also helps that Shopify has a user-friendly interface, making it easy to use once you get the DFY store. This advantage makes them enticing for non-tech-savvy people.
Cons of DFY Shopify Stores
There are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
Generic Store Templates
Most done-for-you stores lack originality, which can be a huge factor for your branding. This is because they’re built using pre-made layouts and designs, often copied and pasted. Remember, your branding is what makes your store memorable to customers. Generic templates can also mean limited modifications—you can’t fully customize how your store looks and works.
High Risk of Scams
There are some risky DFY store offers online. They’re usually sold as stores with existing products and supplier relationships for hefty prices. They might even tell you that you just need traffic, and you’ll be easily profitable—these aren’t true at all. You could end up paying for a store in a niche that is not even consistently profitable.
No Proven Revenue
Many DFY stores lack revenue history, and sellers may exaggerate their performance. There’s no guarantee that they will succeed. This means you’ll still have to start from zero to become profitable.
Who Should & Shouldn’t Buy These Stores
DFY stores work best for those with:
DFY stores are not for:
Final Thoughts: Is a DFY Store Right for You?
Buying a done-for-you store CAN work, but only if it meets the right criteria. Based on their pros and cons, make sure to check for the following:
At the same time, make sure you have the capital to buy one. Ultimately, research and a careful look at the pros and cons will help you decide if buying a DFY store suits your goals.
If you have any other questions about DFY stores, drop them below.
And if you want expert guidance on starting a profitable online business, join my free webinar for a step-by-step breakdown!
