See the top 100 home based businesses in America.
Ok. So it’s 5:00 a.m., and I walk to the kitchen to get a cup of coffee with my eyes half open.
Ugh...
| Nickname: | Sonoma, CA United States |
| Website: | www.StartupNation.com |
| Blog: | www.startupnation.com/blogs/index.php/author/rich-sloan/ |
| Podcast: | www.startupnation.com/media/ |
I`m curious to know what draws you to the StartupNation community we`re working so hard to build. Your answers will help us understand more about what you are seeking and how we can provide even more value to you.
Thanks!!!
Rich
I’m new to your site (just joined yesterday) and have already logged at least 8 hours! I`m like a kid in a candy store darting from item to item. I’m awestruck by the caliber of the members that SUN has attracted. I’ve read many posts and am very pleased to see the tone is encouraging and intelligent. I have yet to read anything condescending no matter how simple the question may be.
I just finished listening to the on demand seminar “Create Your Life Plan” and about cried at my results. It confirmed what I already knew; that my current job situation has me completely unmotivated and depressed. It is affecting all aspects of my life in a negative way. I’m ready for a new path!
Thank you StartupNation! Well done! I intend to be part of your FAMILY for a long time!
welcome to this community. individually and together, it`s amazing what can be accomplished.
possibility begins with awareness, and the fact that you`ve completed your Life Plan and you became aware of some things that need to be addressed is ALL GOOD. it`s from the low points in life that we rise up.
looking forward to interacting with you here.
rich (and team)
I voted other because no one category was totally correct. I hope to gain knowledge, get questions answered, find out what questions I need answers to, impart my experience or knowledge gained to others, have a community of moral support, find like-minded people to hire what I can`t do or don`t want to do or don`t know how to do myself, and maybe get a few clients if I actually buy the business I`m considering.
Even if I don`t get into my own business, this site is so fabulous that I will continue to be a part of it!
to the creators!
Jillybeans
The #1 reason I am in this community is because SuN is inspirational, encouraging, interactive and informative. Depending on the line of business, sometimes the competition can be fierce; and others in the same line of business may share some information but to some degree guard their knowledge so they can maintain a competitive edge. That is not the case here in SuN because the depth and breath of discussion reveals both common scenarios faced by all of us; and unique situations where under typical conditions most small business owners wouldn`t have access to the people with the knowlege or experience to answer their questions. Plus SuN does an excellent job of providing informative podcasts, articles, peer to peer learning, and delivers it in an enjoyable format. It is also a catalyst for generating ideas, improving processes, building collaborations, and much more.
I`m with Vince and Jillybeans... I voted for "other." Obviously, having instant access to the expertise of this board is important; but, networking and looking for partnerships is another reason for belonging.
And, now, as I`m making progress on my business goals, I`m also meeting a lot of friends here and I just like the daily talks with like-minded entreprenuers. It`s like a cyber-watercooler.
The Swaynester
I actaully voted before reading the posts, but very much agree with what others have already said. There are so many reasons, I had to vote "other". But since the question asks what the #1 reason is, I guess I would say that the first 2 - getting and giving advice - would probably tie for #1 if it was possible to vote for 2. Although, the inspiration and encouragement are definitely up there on my list, too.
This truly is an amazing community - thank you for starting it up!
ross,
i`ve really loved some of your posts - so start taking credit (at least from me!).
thanks, everyone! clearly there are multiple motivations for people to participate. and i guess that`s a good thing, no?
keep us on track! let us know what we should do more of, less of, differently, etc.
I enjoy helping other`s out of the box...... Example PR * there are millions of dollars worth of free press for any business. What is the media looking for? Stories! Just give them one.
I like to motivate and help people get in motion. My rewards come from many places as long as I continue to give freely.
Aw heck everybody,
Everyone is bringing up such great points! Starting with Vince. and so many "others" It`s so true. I should also be other but I voted with the other lemmings. Why did I allow myself to be pigeon-holed! Why? It`s something I`m always on guard against! Lured by his kind and easy-going manner, Rich has easily disarmed one of my most powerful defenses!! Aaaarrgh!
Now I must take this moment to point out that I had a swinging-door chad-- far less absolute than the lesser valued dangling chad. My orginal entry should be discounted and allow me yet another opportunity to cast my vote. I am other!
Other, I am!
Well?
(Should I have included "Bed and Breakfast"?)


folks, if you click "other," please post what you would have selected as your top choice. it would be great to see what people would pursue!
i voted for import/export. businesses in this niche take advantage of huge shifts in opportunity and untapped opportunities at that! also, i like that, at its core, it`s a business that would connect me to people overseas (exotic ring to it), and possibly involve travel to those locations (very exotic ring to it).
rich
I`m all about technology. I`m drawn to the challenges, to the solutions. The risks are huge but so is the payoff.
Rich,
The recent increase in listing and selling fees for eBay Stores has discouraged many sellers due to a significant increase in operating costs with a considerable reduction in profitability. eBay also eliminated the search results cross-promotion of store listings, thus reducing visibility of eBay Store items. eBay`s marketing focus has shifted to their new "eBay Express," launched this year.
Many eBay sellers are now considering other alternatives (including up-and-coming sites with no listing or selling fees), although most will wait until after the holiday sales season before making any significant moves to other online-auction sites.
The above changes may be why the "eBay Store business" has not received any votes.
Linda

I chose other.
I felt that "Service" should have been in there somewhere. I provide a service for people, by photographing them. I feel its the best business to start because once you establish the tools needed, it`s pure profit for your time. I have very little overhead... and its pretty simple and straightforward!
Yvette
I agree with Scott, I have seen lots of businesses struggle through growing pains but when the kinks are worked out the process starts to flow I don`t believe I`ve seen happier individuals. Manufacturing is the backbone of every economy including the
Rich,
My vote was for online retail.
Linda

Hi Rich,
How does one go about starting an import/export biz. Can you send me some information? I`m really interested in this biz idea.
Thanks, Trace

yes, we`re importing Arabian horses as a side business. they ney and whinnie!!!
i will hunt down an expert in import/export and get some perspective here on the site to help everyone. we also imported the "More Balls Than Most" juggling kit from the UK - you may have read about that in the Costco article that ran in August.
but still, i don`t consider myself a guru on the matter and will find someone who can guru us to no end.
i consider it a topic of great import.
cheers. Maggie
I chose coffee house (actually it would be a coffee house – bookstore). Not because it’s what I do – at the moment I’m a consultancy and service provider. Not because it’s something I’m likely to do next.
But because it’s Friday afternoon and I’m in a “what-if” mood. What if there were no obstacles or economic realities to starting a business. What if I could have a place where a steady stream of interesting people came in, had some coffee, perused some great books, and regaled the owner with interesting conversation?
And the importer-exporter types helped me plan my next exotic adventures. And the restauranteurs kept me up to speed on great food and wine – and brought samples. And once a week everybody played board games and ate great dips with funny names imported from
Well you get the picture.
....Keep us posted on the import/export guru...cheers. MagdaC`mon everyone, what happened to building an information business? Although consultancy is part of the information business, you need to consider that information has very little overhead and very high profit margins (thanks to the internet).
With information, you can simply sell an e-book or audio course, which may take you some time in the beginning, but people can download it over and over again with you keep the money (minus hosting to keep your site up).
Something to consider everyone!
Well Rich,
I voted for online store, but after reading all the posts, I was reminded of my one true passion and should have chosen OTHER. My all time passion is severe weather and the ideal business would be a Stormchasing Tour business. My husband and I, both with meteorology backgrounds, have thrown around this idea for years, but we have never pursued it.
Tornado/Severe weather tours in the spring and fall, Desert dustdevil tours during the summer? What do you guys think?
CG
i reckon joining affiliate is one of the easiest way to earn income..especially for those with minimum capital..
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I believe having a "Primary" home business for residual income for life but a member of some "affiliate" programs for quick income as well as residual income is best.
If you don`t have a Primary business you may not have residual income and in the longterm could hurt one financially. Check this info. out about Mastering your Primary http://rschlieper.masteringyourprimary.com
Ron
For anyone interested in learning how to develop a bed and breakfast when you already have oodles of money (a very common scenario
) here`s a new reality show to check out:
A new project coming to Oxygen - cameras follow Tori Spelling and her husband Dean McDermott as they purchase and renovate a bed and breakfast in Southern California, and await the birth of their first child.
I voted for Multi Level Marketing.
I have found that when you have established a big downline; many are expert marketers and make you ongoing income. It`s even better if you have 2 levels or more. If your downline make most of your income you have low advertising costs so profit level is high.
I was a big ebay junkie but its crazy fees and what I consider a SERIOUS conflict of interest with its paypal program.
I have lost over $4,000 due to chargebacks issue. I am a honest guy when it come to delivering the goods. I sold mostly computers that I built and I lost that money on 4 high end Alienware wanna pc.
As soon as they paid.. I would ship it via the good ole Post Office very nicely professionally shipped too. The thing is my post office is open 24 hours and I did it on a same day u pay the same day you ship. Because that how I define customer service for my business.
These clowns I mean fraud not only did a chargeback with paypal but they act like they didnt get the item and they did as I did have proof but ebay wouldnt let me get the fees. I really dont want to get into it as my lawyer is handling that.
But I got collection agencys involved. U got to be very smart to include that clause in the terms of agreements.
Now I accept only postal money order or cashier checks. But I also change the parameters of whom can bid or who cant bid.
eBay has imo gotten too greedy for its own good. I am sure Meg is a good CEO but she is out of touch and stuck with a 20th Century mentality.
Rich - thats because Ebay has got the majority of that market locked up. Its like starting a new search engine company from scratch and competing against Google. Sure it could be done...but how long will it take to catch up to the technology and be able to turn a profit?
P.S. Good show Tuesday here in Santa Clarita!! - Jimmy
I was a big ebay junkie but its crazy fees and what I consider a SERIOUS conflict of interest with its paypal program.
I have lost over $4,000 due to chargebacks issue. I am a honest guy when it come to delivering the goods. I sold mostly computers that I built and I lost that money on 4 high end Alienware wanna pc.
As soon as they paid.. I would ship it via the good ole Post Office very nicely professionally shipped too. The thing is my post office is open 24 hours and I did it on a same day u pay the same day you ship. Because that how I define customer service for my business.
These clowns I mean fraud not only did a chargeback with paypal but they act like they didnt get the item and they did as I did have proof but ebay wouldnt let me get the fees. I really dont want to get into it as my lawyer is handling that.
But I got collection agencys involved. U got to be very smart to include that clause in the terms of agreements.
Now I accept only postal money order or cashier checks. But I also change the parameters of whom can bid or who cant bid.
eBay has imo gotten too greedy for its own good. I am sure Meg is a good CEO but she is out of touch and stuck with a 20th Century mentality.
What a great opportunity to exploit and fix the problem with a newer business model that is in it for the right reasons!! - jimmy
Rich - thats because Ebay has got the majority of that market locked up. Its like starting a new search engine company from scratch and competing against Google. Sure it could be done...but how long will it take to catch up to the technology and be able to turn a profit?
P.S. Good show Tuesday here in Santa Clarita!! - Jimmy

I choose other because I`m an original thinker: How about an honest opinion website. Do I look fat in this dress? Am I a loser. Heck yea ... Please laugh I work graveyard and this was so entertaining for me.
How about a Funded Sponsoring Franchise business? This program has been very lucrative for me and was free to sign up. A Franchise, you know, like McDonalds or Taco Bell or a Gas Station or Car Dealership but without paying the $1000`s it takes to start one.
30,000+ Franchises To Be Given Away For Free In The Next 2 Months. Full Details at http://RSchlieper.PayItForward4Profits.com
RS
No "catch" yourNAMEinDotCom, no "catch"! One can remain a FREE Member and NEVER pay a fee, however, if one wants to start earning some extra monies one can upgrade (but NOT necessary) at a minimal cost and if a member already has a home based or other business with a website that URL can be plugged into our system to be included for new referrals who might be looking for a primary business.
If you really want to check it out, and again it`s FREE with no obligation, simply click the link PIF4P and sign up - it`s FREE - to get access to our Success Guide and why not, it`s FREE. Nothing to lose but so much to gain...
RS
R,
So much weight gain! I don`t want to be tied down to old news franchises. Give a new idea once in a while. Personally I hoped that the Ultra Gloss and Joe Happy lines would be in the line-up. I`ll show you an original, and you show me marketing techniques to gainshare with qualified franchise marketeers. Message me. I have 9 unique products waiting for your unique approach to mlm direct buy sales. Sincerely, ~daniel~
I may have voted Ebay a year ago. While online retail is the direction I`m headed I`m (however fortunate or unfortunate) now charged with the task of moving a large customer base over to our new site http://ProLineSportsNutrition.com Any suggestions that I haven`t already thought up would be appreciated.
The fact that Ebay Stores now takes 15-20% of gross sales (after it`s all said and done) could be a reason for zero vote count!
I voted for "other" as in franchise. I think it should be up there. Many of the franchise opportunities that exist today are more than mere licensing opportunities, and many provide a wealth of resources and support for both online and brick and mortar operations. In addtion, much of the work has been, and is being done for you.
Being on the franchise creation end, it is a tough nut to design a turn-key solution for universal use. My pilot is in place and the kinks are not as gnarly as I suspected they would be, so there is great hope for national presence...coming soon!
On a side note, I do agree that the `pricing out" of regular folks from the ebay venue is getting worse. Companies such as BigCrumbs.com have positioned themselves on the "better" end of the ebay operation, and they are certainly helping to ease that pain-point.
I too let my store go, and kicked out the original offering of ebay stores included in my franchise formula due to the lack of profits derived from reasonable effort.
Best of luck to all you folks!
I selected online retail. For a few reasons. 1. Minimal overhead expenses 2. More Creativity 3. Higher Profit Margins
Hey, you should try a new TV & Internet business with very little over head. And you don`t have to do any advertising. The company spends over $50,000,000 a year for your business. Very low start - up cost. its under $700 for the equipment. All you do is turn on the equipment when you get home, or if you are at home, and wait for the customer to call you and place the order of the product they want from TV infomercial. (soon, dozens of products) Take their order, then up-load it to the company and make your commission. Very simple and worth checking out.
Call Nelson at 347-404-7489 Or go to: www.itvVentures.com/nelson and click business opportunity.
It would be Network Marketing for me. One that contains a number of other areas you mentioned such as "online retail" (I don`t want to store any thing in my basement or garage) and technology (especially now the digital age is taking off big time). These combined with good products, a good company with good management and cash rich and finally a grade A support system.
I noticed that there was a big gap in MLM and online retailing. However, I think the wave of the future is going to be with the internet. Unless you have a great drop shipping agreement with a trustworthy organization you run the risk of carrying inventory that might not move. I was leaning towards the online retail but have shifted to running my own internet business.
Good luck.
I voted "other". I have a plan in development for an online community resource directory for spanish speakers and also a membership club/alternative workspace for mobile professionals who want to work.play.relax
AcmeData: I have a store on cafepress.com (http://www.cafepress.com/thegiftboutique)
I can`t say anything negative about cafepress because I haven`t really marketed my store but it is fairly easy to use and fun too. As far as money, I haven`t made any but I haven`t spent any either. I am planning to use their site and products to market promotional items for some of my clients.
Anyway, there`s my 2 cents!
I`d like to add:
"Online Membership/Subscription" business!
Hello!! Been a while since I`ve been here, but I need to be making this a regular stop. :) And, plan to.
I voted online retail, but what I think for me is most desirable is online service. Meaning, providing a service online, not selling internet service. Close to online retail, has the same pros, at least as far as overhead goes, but, to a degree, even less overhead as there isn`t any product to buy and resell. Regardless of whether you`re drop-shipping or stocking the items, the item has to be paid for. Although I guess you could include e-books, etc. in online retail,then there`s very little to no cost involved.
Personally, one form of online service that I`m referring to is online "local" advertising. This is something I`ve spent the past 8 months developing, and just went live with at the first of the year, targeting a specific business type, and promoting their businesses online, to local people.
So far, it`s not grown by leaps and bounds, but I do think the concept is sound. I`m in the process now of getting my LLC set up, getting my independent contractors agreements done, etc. When this is finished, hopefully in about a week, I`ll be ready to finish up the plan to start approaching, or advertising for, resellers in other areas of the country.
What do I love about online? The low overhead, VERY low startup costs compared to brick and mortar, and, if done right, can be very successful in a short time.
i voted for import/export. businesses in this niche take advantage of huge shifts in opportunity and untapped opportunities at that! also, i like that, at its core, it`s a business that would connect me to people overseas (exotic ring to it), and possibly involve travel to those locations (very exotic ring to it).
rich
It seems that a huge majority is moving to online retail. I suppose if competition doesn`t bother you, or you have the perfect niche, then that`s o.k. I prefer something solid, with the internet as a support system.
Yes, I am currently going through the brick and mortar nightmare, and it is a nightmare dealing with architects, city regulations, etc. My new business sort of requires that I have a fixed place - unless we want to play gypsy and move around a lot.
But I have been a web programmer for over 10 years and find that online retail only works well in certain cases.
Such as: