There are many types of businesses people can own and operate. Some of the best small businesses to start are those you can run from your own home. A home business requires less overhead. Some home businesses you can start with very little money. Set your business up in a spare bedroom and you may be able to take the home office deduction, according to the IRS.
One way to start a business is to solve a problem or satisfy a need. For example, there are more dual-income families today. Both partners work. And some may have small kids, or a dog. People are living longer so their are more elderly people in the population. Some may be disabled and need assistance with errands or doctor visits. Hence, you have four possible types of service businesses, just from people's needs or problems alone: House cleaning, a daycare service, dog walking and errand business for the elderly. You can watch kids from home. Start with three to six kids. Check the labor laws in your state to see if there are any special licenses you need. You will need to prepare activities and lunch for the kids if you watch them all day. You just need certain supplies for house cleaning, including cleaners, mops, brooms, rags, paper towels, window washing solutiion and garbage bags. Dog walking is one of the easiest pet-care businesses to start. The going rate is $15 to $17 per dog for a 15- to 20-minute walk, according to Costhelper.com, and $18 to $22 for a 30- to 40-minute walk. Charge multiple-dog owners $25 for a 15- to 20-minute walk. All you need is a multi-dog leash for walking more than one dog. Starting an errand business for the elderly is also relatively easy. You will spend most of your time grocery shopping, picking up medicines or escorting people to doctors' offices. Elderly customers may also need some help around their homes: Repair work, cleaning and moving furniture around. Check with your local county or city administration office.
Use your experience to start a business. For example, you can offer consulting services in marketing, marketing research, web design and tax preparation. Contact past business associates. Join professional organizations. Pass out business cards and brochures. Place a listing in the print and online yellow pages about your services. You can also advertise in trade magazines like "Advertising Age" to attract long-distance customers.