Ten Potential Businesses to Run from Home

Here is a list of the top ten ideas for running a business from your home:

1. Making use of your computer

If computers are your thing why not look at operating a computer servicing business from your home? You may find that friends and family members turn to you first when they encounter a virus on their computer for example, so why not offer your services if you are already skilled in this area?

2. Writing

If you love writing articles and blogs for websites, this is something you can expand. As your various blogs get published you get exposure for your business. As people read your articles in various sites they get to know you as a respected source of information on your subject. Try searching for online blogging magazines such as Blog Herald, CopyBlogger and Blogging Tips. As your blogging business takes off, remember to network as you go. Building a network of similar minded people will add to your exposure and open up new opportunities.

3. Gardening

For dedicated and green-fingered gardeners there is the opportunity to set aside a section of your garden to grow vegetables, fruits and flowers to sell to others. Your high quality produce will be much in demand once produce stalls become aware of your presence. You can grow and sell bedding plants, fruits, vegetables, bonsai trees, herbs, house plants, landscaping plants and orchids among others. Plant everything you can, and then contact your local produce stands. The secret is that people love home grown vegetables but don’t want to grow them themselves, so what an opportunity for the dedicated gardener!

4. Import and export

International trade organisations and government encouragement have opened the way to bring in products from other countries. This is where you can come in as you can operate this business from your home. You just need enough capital to buy the merchandise you intend to sell from your home. Search online for more detailed information and you’re ready to get started!

5. Childcare

If you love children, this is a golden opportunity to set up a growing business from home. Invest in lots of age-appropriate toys, books and other materials and provide a nice, safe and stimulating environment, and hey presto you can assist the growing numbers of parents who find they both have to work or are single parents making a living. Don’t forget to register as a childminder and contact the relevant authorities, and also you need to safety proof your house.

6. Bed and Breakfast

If the kids have grown up and flown the nest you will find you have a couple of spare rooms in your house! This is an opportunity to add to your income by starting a bed and breakfast business. The downside is the long hours involved, but on the other hand the work can be fitted into your daily routine as you are doing the cooking and housework anyway if you are at home during the day. People who enjoy their stay with you are apt to return to your home year after year too which will be great for your new business!

7. Baking and cooking

If you are a talented cook and people love your dishes you can turn this to a money-making concern. Indeed, many people have launched successful catering and food-based businesses, by cooking at home and then marketing to local people and shops. The way to start is to use just one recipe and market that – it can be one that is tried and tested or can be your own innovative creation. News of your business will spread by word of mouth in no time. You will need food hygiene certificates, details of which can be obtained from your local council.

8. Antiques

Buying and selling antiques is and continues to be a very successful enterprise and one you can do from home easily, with excellent financial rewards. All you need is a home office and it helps if you already have lots of antiques in your house. This is a good opportunity for those who love browsing at the weekend for interesting items, and have knowledge of antiques.

9. Interior decorator

If you love interior design and decorating your home, this could be the ideal venture for you. This venture will make good use of your talents and eye for colour coordination and patterns and your experience in sourcing materials for your home will be a tremendous asset. Search online for advice and guidance in setting up a home interior decorating business.

10. Photography

If you love photography this is a golden opportunity for working from home. All you need is an inexpensive good camera, a tripod and a spare room for developing your pictures. You can start off part-time, with weddings, family portraits etc. Once people hear about your photographic skills you are on your way to a successful home business!