Our local university has a class on starting and running a small business. They also offer support to folks just thinking about it or already into it. It is run by the business department. Perhaps that could be something useful to you?
There is a wonderful old building for sell in my town and I would love to start a quilt shop there...but I am retired and don't want to do that. It is just fun thinking about it.
...As for the question you actually asked....I don't go to either of our two remaining LQS here in town. (One just went out of business...) The reason is that I feel obligated to buy something. The stores are always empty and the sales staff is eager to help. I do better if I can just browse, undisturbed, and even when I tell them I just want to browse or look around, they still seem to hover. It is particularly hard if I am carrying a piece of fabric to match. I do better in the stores where no one cares if I am there or not. Just me...
Good luck with whatever you decide. You have lots of good advice here, and you will know what is right for you. Researching like you are is certainly a good start.
Dina