10 Steps Before You Start a Home Business

• Who is going to buy your product or service?
• Will you market to businesses, to consumers, or to both?
• What traits do you think your "typical" customer or client will have?
• Is the need for your product or service not currently being met or is it already saturated?
• Is there something about what you have to offer that will allow you to beat your competitors?
• How will you differentiate yourself from your competition?
• What is your value proposition? What is your competitive advantage?

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Index: 10 Steps Before You Start a Home Business

1. Step 1: Decide What Products You Will Sell or Services You Will Provide
2. Step 2: Know Your Market and Your Competition
3. Step 3: Make Sure You Can Perform the Tasks Needed to Run Your Business
4. Step 4: Make a List of What Needs to be Done to Prepare Your Home for Business
5. Step 5: What Restrictions Might Prevent You from Starting Your Home Business
6. Step 6: Plan to Protect Yourself, Your Home and Your Family
7. Step 7: Learn the Risks and Benefits of Each Type of Legal Business Entity
8. Step 8: Determine Your Startup Costs
9. Step 9: Consider Your Breakeven, Your Cash Flow and Your Funding Options
10. Step 10: Gauge Your Family's Support for Your Home Business