Five Small Businesses You Can Start Right Now

In today’s economy, the idea of starting a small business can be daunting. For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the cost of “setting up shop” is prohibitive. Fortunately, there are some small business options that do not require a brick-and-mortar storefront. Before starting any small business, consider these few key questions:

• Am I disciplined enough to work for myself?
• Do I have the confidence to market myself?
• Do I have reliable transportation?

In addition, for most small businesses you should get insurance. As the boss, you hold final accountability. Also, consider getting bonded to increase your marketability. Several of the businesses suggested here involve entering people’s homes. You are more likely to attract clients if they know your background has been checked, as it means you are accountable for anything that goes wrong on the job.

Each of the following suggestions has its pros and cons. Consider your personality, and your financial goals. As with any job, there will be tradeoffs when running a small business. Some people are willing to earn less if they have more flexibility to spend time with their families. Others are willing to invest significant time in growing the business to achieve outstanding profitability. Think about your own aspirations and constraints.

1. Rental Property Cleaning Service:

• Initial investment: Cost of cleaning supplies.
• The downside: Work is seasonal.
• The perks: Vacation communities are a fun place to be in your time off!
• Where to get more info: Contact real estate agencies that handle rentals.

2. Pet Care:

• Initial investment: Negligible.
• The downside: Working holidays and weekends.
• The perks: Working with animals and working outside.
• Where to get more info: National Association of Professional Pet Sitters provides background and tips for potential pet sitters.

3. Errand Service:

• Initial investment: None.
• The downside: Almost always on call.
• The perks: Getting your own errands done; lots of activity and interaction.
• Where to get more information: Read some helpful articles at http://www.ivillage.com/whats-first-step-starting-errand-service/7 before getting started.

4. Vending Machines

• Initial investment: Cost of machine, such as a drink vending machine.
• The downside: Cost of refills can fluctuate, making it difficult to project profit from vending machine sale of products.
• The perks: Flexible hours.
• Where to get more info: vending machine sale sites, such as www.1800vending.com provide lots of information about getting started.

5. Notary Public:

• Initial investment: Cost of training seminar, stamp and seal.
• The downside: Difficult to maintain as sole means of income.
• The perks: Can easily be managed as a second income.
• Where to get more info: Visit your state’s government website for licensing and seminar information.

Jessica writes about a wide variety of topics.  She especially enjoys writing about vending machines. You can learn more about Vending Machines at http://www.1800vending.com