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| Is Home-Based Business Right for You? | With the advent of affordable technologies and a surge in entrepreneurial spirit and e-commerce, more and more small businesspeople are starting businesses from their homes. According to surveys, in 1997 more businesses were started from home than commercial sites. Money is a main reason for the decision, as majority of home-based entrepreneurs start with less than $5,000 and no savings. One of the 705,000 home-based businesses started in 1997. After less than a year, he moved to an office building. Home office is a good starting point, but not suitable for the long term. Nevertheless, there are thousands of small-business owners who wouldn't have it any other way. Some things to consider when thinking about working from home are written below:
• How much foot traffic will you have? Clients, salespeople, and mail carriers may all need to visit. Is your home zoned for business applications? Will your insurance company cover any accidents? Will your home be able to provide accommodation for all your visitors? If your home is not a good place for meeting with clients, it is much easier to meet at a client's place of business, a restaurant, or coffee shop. For bigger meetings, check with your Chamber of Commerce -- you may be able to use the conference room free.
• How much space do you have? Will it allow for growth as you add clients and equipment? You may start with enough space, but after you add a second printer, scanner, fax machine, and more file drawers, it will become a bit uncomfortable to work.
• How will your family adjust to the office? Will you be able to have a dedicated space, with no interruptions? Will you be able to keep your business phone untouchable for others? Will your equipment be used only for business, or will you have to vie for time on the computer? Will there be umbrage if you are home and not spending time with your family?
• Can you keep your business and personal life separate? Can you work if the dog is barking and the kids are screaming? Will you be able to stop and start working at certain times? There may be too many little things to do at home and too many disruptions. You may also found yourself never getting away from work.
There are also some marketing concerns to being based at home. If you decide to launch from home, keep in mind the following:
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