A home business opportunity is a dream for many, and a Network Marketing (MLM) business is easy to start, and often has low entry costs. But starting your own business, and becoming your own boss is both scary and exciting. 

Some are forced into a home business opportunity because a downsizing, need to be a stay at home mom, a move, or some other personal reason that leaves them without steady employment.  But the majority start a home business on the side and hope to build from there. If this is your dream here are some hints on how to plan your search.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

You have to do the right research on any business you are thinking about joining. Here's a few things to think about.

• Do you think the business has a potential for growth? An example is a business where the target market in the older age group.  We all know this is a growing part of the population, so your customer base is going to grow.
• How long has the company been in business?  Start-ups have a much higher failure rate.  You do not want to pick one where your efforts would be all for nothing if they went out of business
• How do you relate to the product or service you are going to sell?  If you feel "just so so" about it, you are not likely to be believed when you are selling. On the other hand, be sure it's not just because you don't understand it. Take your time on researching the company and their products before you decide it's not for you.
• Make sure you have set aside time to put down your goals for the short and long term.  Are they reasonable?  If you are starting "cold" can you really expect to reach that goal in your time frame?  For example, do you really think earning $10,000 a month in three months is reasonable?  What skills and edge to you have to get you there?  What skills do you have to acquire?
• How much do you need to start the business? If you don't know, then again do the research. If it's a Network Marketing company it's not just the sign-up fees, but also what you are expected to purchase on a monthly basis.  How about marketing the business?  Are you going to have a web site?  Can you build it?  Does the company offer associate web sites?  If so, what are the costs?

There is a lot of work to do in researching home business opportunities. Here are some ideas for you.  Companies listed below have been market tested and have a great track record. They represent good solid opportunities, but certainly not an all inclusive list.