You're not alone!

Many, many people have wanted their own work at home business. But of course the "dreaming" isn't difficult. Deciding on exactly which and what kind of business to start is the hard part.

But it's easier than you may imagine. It's much easier when you can examine the many choices by looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each.

If you're still trying to decide here are a few factors to consider that might make your task a little easier.

1. Startup Costs

One of the problems with many home businesses is high start-up costs.

No doubt you've seen lots of "business opportunities" that claim you can start for "free." Don't believe it for a minute! There are always costs involved.

You'll want to look for a possible home business that has minimal initial expenses. But veer away from those opportunities where initial costs seem unrealistic. Examine these offers carefully.

2. Time to Become Profitable

When starting a new business it can take days, months, or even years to earn enough to recoup your initial startup costs. Of course the time needed to recoup your investment will also depend on just how great that initial investment was. But in any event you'll want to choose a business that will begin turning a profit sooner rather than later.

3. Ability to Start While Maintaining Your Current Job

The problem with a lot of business start-ups is they put you in an untenable situation money wise. No matter how quickly a new business becomes profitable, there's still a period of time when there'll be no profits coming in. If you need your job to pay the bills, you can't quit your job until your business lets you earn enough money to pay your living expenses. But at the same time your job leaves you too little time to start your business!

The best home based business option then is to find a business you can start and operate part time while continuing your job, until you're earning enough money to quit and devote full time to your business.

4. Operating Costs and Profit Margins

Not only will you need startup capital, you'll also need money to operate the business. Make a realistic assessment of your operating expenses and choose a business that will allow you a comfortable profit margin.

5. Demand for the Product or Service

No matter what other advantages you chosen business has, you'll never be successful unless there's a demand for what you sell.

Don't start a business trying to sell a product or service that too few people want.

6. Continuing Demand and Economic Conditions

Our economy is always changing. Businesses sometimes fail because of changes in the economic "climate."

You could be making good profits one day, and the next day be watching demand for your product "dry up." You would be wise to choose a home based business based on the likelihood of continuing demand for what you sell.

7. Learning Curve

Depending on what business you choose, it could take a long time to acquire the knowledge needed to conduct your business. Look for a business with a short "learning curve" or for one for which you already have some understanding.

8. Income Potential

Every business "opportunity" promises you high earnings potential. But just how realistic are those promises?

Always remember the old adage "If it sounds too good to be true ... it probably is!" Look at every opportunity with a critical eye and choose a business that offers high but REALISTIC earnings potential.

9. Time Freedom

Starting new home business can place a great deal of demands on your time. Lots of entrepreneurs work 10 - 12 hours a day at least, as well as weekends and holidays, getting their business up and running.

Make a realistic assessment of the time requirements whatever business you choose, and make sure you have adequate time to devote to it.

10. Satisfaction

"Satisfaction" is a personal matter, and one you should think about carefully. Whatever business you pick, you're more likely to be successful if you take personal satisfaction in what you're doing, to feel that what you're doing is worthwhile, something you can feel good about and be proud of.

In conclusion, you should begin by making a list of all the potential choices that appeal to you.

Then evaluate each one carefully and realistically based on the likely advantages and disadvantages of each. The best home based business for you is already out there ... you just have to find it!

Best of luck in your search!