NYS is a nightmare to have a small business in. He should look to see what his comp premiums will be before he does anything.
Upstate can also be problematic as to the economic conditions in your specific area. The money is just not there in some places.
Southeast NYS is probably the best area to have a small business but costs rise substantially over upstate.
Have a business plan that is sound before you start anything and look into costs associated with what you are trying to do.
NY is like two states with vastly different economies.
That’s just it. He’s worked for several small businesses over the years and sees “lots” of money change hands for “his skill” IOW he thinks he is making the companies he works for very profitable.
I told him that is just gross receipts. Right off the bat he has a 1K monthly bill for child support alone.