If you're one of those still in the "choosing stage" here are a few factors to consider that might make your task a little easier.
1. Startup Costs
One of the drawbacks to many home business opportunities is high start-up costs. No doubt you've seen lots of "business opportunities" that claim to get you started for "free."
Don't believe it for a minute! There are always costs involved.
You'll want to look for a possible home business that has minimal start up cost. But beware of those opportunities that tout start up cost that seem unrealistically low. Examine these offers with a very critical eye.
2. Time to Become Profitable
A major drawback of many business opportunities is the time period needed to begin turning a profit. Although it varies, it can take anywhere from days to months - or even years - to make enough to even recoup your initial investment.
Of course the time needed to recoup your investment will also depend on just how great that initial investment was. But in any event you'll usually do better to choose a business that will begin turning a profit sooner rather than later.
3 Ability to Start While Maintaining Your Current Job
The problem with a lot of business start-ups is they put you in an untenable situation money-wise. No matter how quickly a new business becomes profitable, there's still a period of time when there'll be no profits coming in.
If you're depending on your job to pay the bills, you can't quit your job until your business is making enough to pay your living expenses. But at the same time your job doesn't allow you the free time necessary to start your business!
The best option in this case is to find a business you can start and operate part time while continuing your job, until you're making enough to quit and devote full time to your business.
4. Operating Costs and Profit Margins
You'll not only need some cash to start your business, you'll also need some operating capital on a recurring basis. Do a careful analysis of what it will cost you to operate the business of your choice. Choose a business that will allow you a comfortable profit margin AFTER operating expenses.
