- 15 million home-based businesses in the US, with a significant increase due to the pandemic and technology
- Popular home-based businesses include graphic design, web development and programming, virtual assistance services, online teaching, and writing/editing services.
- The best home-based businesses right now include an online store, freelance writing, catering, and coaching.
- Renovation essentials for each type of business include safety features, office/storage space, furniture & equipment, lighting & ventilation.
- To succeed in setting up a home-based business, it’s essential to consider the necessary renovations for creating a comfortable workspace.
Starting a home-based business is a great idea to earn extra income or replace your traditional 9-to-5 job. It allows you to work on your schedule, save time and money on your commute, and have more control over your income. However, choosing the right business can be tough with so many options available. Here’s what you need to know about home-based businesses, the best ones, and the renovation options you must make to accommodate them.
Home-Based Businesses in The U.S.
It’s estimated that the country has about 15 million home-based businesses. This massive increase is attributed to technology, which allows people to work from anywhere with an internet connection. Popular home-based businesses include graphic design, web development and programming, virtual assistance services, online teaching, and writing/editing services.
Moreover, the recent pandemic has forced many businesses to close. However, some of these businesses decided to re-open in the comfort of their homes, further increasing the number of home-based businesses.
The Best Home-Based Businesses Right Now
When it comes to the best home-based businesses, a few stand out from the rest. Here are some of them:
Online Store
It’s estimated that online sales have reached nearly $1.8 trillion. This is why starting an online store is a great way to earn money from home without needing a physical storefront. You can sell almost anything online, from clothing and jewelry to digital products like software and ebooks. Creating your e-commerce website may seem daunting, but with platforms like Shopify, Squarespace, or Etsy, you can easily set up your store and start selling quickly.
Renovation Essentials
You don’t need to renovate your home for your online store. You can handle the operations of your online store in the comfort of your room. However, if you want to store some of your items, you might want to consider renovating. Firstly, you must ensure your home is safe and secure for any business. This includes having proper fire alarms, smoke detectors, and other safety features. You might also want to look into creating an office space or storage area if necessary. Finally, it’s important to ensure that your home is properly lit and ventilated so that you can work comfortably.
Freelance Writing
If you are passionate about writing and can craft compelling content, freelance writing can be a lucrative home-based business. You can write articles, blog posts, social media content or even ebooks for clients. Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer are great platforms to find clients looking for freelance writers. As you build your portfolio and reputation, you can charge higher rates and work with more established companies.
Renovation Essentials
Like an online store, you might not need to renovate when starting a freelance writing business. However, you may consider creating an office space and setting up the right equipment. This includes comfortable furniture, a laptop computer, a good internet connection, and any other items necessary for your work. You should also look into having proper lighting in your workspace so that you can work comfortably throughout the day.
Catering
One market in the food industry that has been growing in recent years is catering. With businesses and events moving online, there is a huge demand for caterers who can deliver food to customers’ doors. You can start your own catering business by creating an online presence, building a team of employees, and getting the necessary permits from local health departments.
Renovation Essentials
If you pursue this venture, you must also renovate your home. First, start with your kitchen. It must have all the necessary items, such as a large refrigerator, oven or range, and food preparation tools. You may also need to consider creating an area for storage. This can include shelves or cupboards to store ingredients. If you don’t know how to do this, consider hiring a kitchen remodeling service. This service can help you transform your kitchen into a versatile workspace that meets all your catering needs.
Online Coaching
You can start an online coaching business with specialized knowledge or skills. From fitness and wellness coaching to business or career coaching, there is a market for almost any niche. You can create video courses, webinars, or personalized coaching packages. Udemy or Teachable are excellent platforms to host your courses, while social media and forums are great for finding potential clients.
Renovation Essentials
When creating the perfect environment for online coaching, you’ll need a comfortable workspace with good lighting and ventilation. You’ll also need tools such as a webcam, microphone, and headset. If you plan on hosting webinars or video conferences, ensure your internet connection is fast enough to support these activities. Consider setting up a separate space from your home and building a home office.
Graphic Design and Web Development
If your skills include graphic design, web design, or development, you can create a home-based business offering these services. There is a high demand for graphic design and web development, and you can start by offering your services for free to build your portfolio and gain experience. As you gain experience and referral clients, you can charge higher rates. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are great for finding clients looking for these services.
Renovation Essentials
For graphic design or web development, you’ll need a comfortable workspace conducive to creativity. Invest in a quality laptop and consider setting up a dual-monitor system. Additionally, have the right software for designing, coding, and testing websites and the necessary tools, such as Adobe Creative Cloud Suite and Microsoft Office Suite. Ensure your internet connection is stable so that you can work without interruption. Finally, invest in a good chair and furniture to create an ergonomic workspace.
No matter the business you choose, it’s essential to consider the renovations necessary for setting up your home-based business. With the proper preparation and research, you can create a comfortable and productive space to help you succeed.
