Are you tired of the daily grind and dreaming of starting your own business from the comfort of your own home? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the top home-based business ideas for 2017, giving you the inspiration and guidance you need to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Whether you are a stay-at-home parent, a recent retiree, or simply craving the freedom of being your own boss, we have got you covered with a wide range of opportunities that can be started right from your own living room. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of home-based business ideas for 2017!
Online businesses
eCommerce store
Starting an eCommerce store is a great way to tap into the growing trend of online shopping. With the increasing popularity of platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, setting up your own online store has never been easier. You can sell physical products, digital downloads, or even offer services through your eCommerce store. The key to success in this business is finding a niche market, providing high-quality products or services, and implementing effective marketing strategies to attract customers.
Freelancing
Freelancing has become a popular choice for individuals looking to work from the comfort of their own homes. Whether you are a writer, designer, developer, or marketer, there are plenty of freelancing opportunities available online. Platforms like Upwork and Freelancer connect freelancers with clients from all over the world. As a freelancer, you have the freedom to choose your own projects, set your own rates, and work on your own schedule. The key to success in freelancing is building a strong portfolio, delivering high-quality work, and cultivating positive relationships with clients.
Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a business model where you earn commission by promoting other people’s products or services. As an affiliate marketer, you can choose from a wide range of products or services to promote and earn a percentage of the sales you generate. You can promote these products or services through your own website, blog, or social media platforms. The key to success in affiliate marketing is choosing the right products or services to promote, building a loyal audience, and implementing effective marketing strategies to drive traffic and generate sales.
Service-based businesses
Virtual assistant
As a virtual assistant, you can offer a wide range of administrative, technical, or creative services to clients remotely. This can include tasks like managing emails, scheduling appointments, social media management, bookkeeping, and more. The demand for virtual assistants is growing as more businesses and entrepreneurs are looking to outsource their tasks to save time and increase efficiency. The key to success as a virtual assistant is developing strong organizational and communication skills, offering high-quality services, and building a strong network of clients.
Social media management
With the increasing importance of social media for businesses, social media management has become a highly sought-after service. As a social media manager, you will be responsible for creating and implementing social media strategies, managing social media accounts, creating and curating content, engaging with followers, and analyzing social media metrics. The key to success in social media management is staying up-to-date with the latest social media trends, creating engaging and shareable content, and effectively communicating the brand’s message.
Graphic design
If you have a knack for design and creativity, starting a graphic design business from home can be a lucrative option. As a graphic designer, you can offer services like logo design, branding, web design, print design, and more. With the increasing demand for visually appealing and professional designs, graphic designers are in high demand. The key to success in graphic design is mastering design software and tools, developing a strong portfolio, and staying updated with design trends.
Consulting businesses
Business coaching
Business coaching involves providing guidance, support, and advice to business owners and entrepreneurs to help them achieve their goals and overcome challenges. As a business coach, you can specialize in specific areas like marketing, sales, leadership, or overall business growth. The key to success in business coaching is having a strong business background, excellent communication and coaching skills, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by businesses.
Marketing consulting
Marketing consulting involves helping businesses develop and implement effective marketing strategies to reach their target audience and achieve their marketing goals. As a marketing consultant, you can provide services like market research, brand development, social media marketing, content marketing, and more. The key to success in marketing consulting is staying updated with the latest marketing trends, having a deep understanding of different industries and target markets, and being able to develop creative and strategic marketing solutions.
Financial consulting
Financial consulting involves helping individuals and businesses manage their finances, make informed financial decisions, and achieve their financial goals. As a financial consultant, you can offer services like budgeting, investment advice, retirement planning, tax planning, and more. The key to success in financial consulting is having a strong background in finance, staying updated with the latest financial regulations and trends, and being able to develop personalized financial plans for clients.
Creative businesses
Handmade products
If you have a passion for crafting and creating unique products, starting a handmade products business can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. You can create and sell handmade products like jewelry, candles, home decor items, clothing, and more. With the increasing demand for personalized and unique products, there is a market for handmade products both online and offline. The key to success in a handmade products business is creating high-quality products, developing a unique brand, and effectively marketing your products to attract customers.
Art and crafts
If you have artistic skills, starting an art and crafts business can be a great way to turn your passion into a profitable venture. You can create and sell your own artwork, handmade crafts, or offer services like custom art commissions. With the rise of online marketplaces like Etsy and the increasing interest in handmade and unique products, there is a market for art and crafts. The key to success in an art and crafts business is continuously honing your artistic skills, developing a unique style, and effectively promoting your artwork or crafts.
Photography
If you have a talent for capturing moments and creating visually stunning images, starting a photography business can be a rewarding choice. You can offer services like portrait photography, event photography, product photography, and more. With the increasing demand for professional photography for personal and business use, there is a market for skilled photographers. The key to success in a photography business is mastering photography techniques and equipment, building a strong portfolio, and effectively marketing your services to attract clients.
Health and wellness businesses
Fitness training
With the growing interest in fitness and wellness, starting a fitness training business can be a profitable venture. You can offer services like personal training, group fitness classes, online fitness programs, and more. As a fitness trainer, you will help clients achieve their fitness goals, improve their overall health, and lead a more active lifestyle. The key to success in a fitness training business is having a strong fitness background, obtaining relevant certifications, and providing personalized and effective training programs.
Yoga instruction
Yoga has gained immense popularity in recent years, making yoga instruction a promising business idea. As a yoga instructor, you can offer group classes, private sessions, workshops, and retreats. You will guide students through yoga poses, breathing techniques, and meditation, helping them improve their physical and mental well-being. The key to success in a yoga instruction business is obtaining yoga certifications, continually advancing your own yoga practice, and creating a welcoming and peaceful environment for your students.
Nutrition consulting
With the increasing emphasis on healthy eating and balanced lifestyles, starting a nutrition consulting business can be a rewarding choice. As a nutrition consultant, you will help clients develop personalized nutrition plans, educate them on healthy eating habits, and provide support and guidance to help them achieve their health goals. The key to success in a nutrition consulting business is having a strong background in nutrition and dietetics, staying updated with the latest nutrition research, and effectively communicating nutritional information to clients.
Educational businesses
Online tutoring
Online tutoring has become a popular choice for students seeking personalized and convenient educational support. As an online tutor, you can offer tutoring services in various subjects and levels, helping students improve their academic performance. With the advancement of technology, conducting online tutoring sessions has become easier than ever. The key to success in online tutoring is having deep knowledge in the subjects you are teaching, being patient and approachable, and developing effective teaching methods suited to online learning.
Language instruction
As globalization continues to grow, the demand for language instruction has increased significantly. If you have language proficiency in a foreign language, starting a language instruction business can be a lucrative opportunity. You can offer language lessons in person or online, catering to individuals or businesses looking to learn a new language. The key to success in language instruction is having native or near-native fluency in the language you are teaching, using interactive teaching methods, and providing cultural insights along with language learning.
Teaching courses
If you have expertise in a specific field, whether it’s computer programming, photography, writing, or any other skill, you can start a teaching courses business. With the rise of online learning platforms like Udemy and Teachable, creating and selling online courses has become accessible to anyone. You can create video tutorials, written materials, and interactive assignments to help students learn and master the subject. The key to success in teaching courses is having in-depth knowledge and expertise in the subject, creating engaging and informative course content, and effectively marketing your courses to attract students.
Home-based franchises
Cleaning services
Home-based cleaning services have gained popularity as people are looking for professional cleaning assistance without the hassle of hiring and managing employees. As a cleaning service owner, you can offer residential or commercial cleaning services, customize cleaning plans, and build long-term relationships with clients. The key to success in a cleaning services business is providing high-quality and reliable cleaning services, offering competitive pricing, and marketing your services to attract clients.
Senior caregiving
As the population continues to age, the demand for senior caregiving services has increased significantly. Starting a senior caregiving business allows you to provide companionship, assistance with daily activities, and personal care to elderly individuals who prefer to age in their homes. The key to success in a senior caregiving business is having a genuine passion for helping elderly individuals, obtaining relevant certifications and training, and building trust and rapport with both clients and their families.
Pet care
If you love animals, starting a pet care business can be a fulfilling and rewarding choice. As a pet care provider, you can offer services like pet sitting, dog walking, grooming, and training. With the increasing number of pet owners who need trustworthy and reliable care for their furry friends, there is a market for pet care services. The key to success in a pet care business is building a strong reputation, providing exceptional care to animals, and continuously updating your skills and knowledge in pet care.
Event planning businesses
Wedding planning
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task for many couples, which is why wedding planning services are in high demand. As a wedding planner, you will assist couples in every aspect of their wedding, from choosing venues and vendors to coordinating the entire event. The key to success in a wedding planning business is having excellent organizational and coordination skills, building a network of reliable vendors, and creating unforgettable wedding experiences for your clients.
Party planning
From birthdays to anniversaries, people love to celebrate special occasions, and party planning services can help bring those celebrations to life. As a party planner, you will work with clients to plan and execute memorable parties and events. This can include choosing themes, organizing decorations, coordinating entertainment, and managing all the logistics. The key to success in a party planning business is having a creative and detail-oriented mindset, staying updated with the latest party trends, and delivering exceptional experiences for your clients.
Corporate event management
Businesses often host various events like conferences, seminars, product launches, and corporate parties, requiring the expertise of event management professionals. As a corporate event planner, you will work with businesses to plan and execute successful events that meet their objectives. This can include managing budgets, coordinating vendors, organizing logistics, and ensuring smooth operations throughout the event. The key to success in corporate event management is having strong organizational and problem-solving skills, building relationships with key stakeholders, and delivering seamless and impactful events.
Real estate businesses
Real estate agent
Real estate agents play a crucial role in helping individuals buy, sell, or rent properties. As a real estate agent, you will assist clients throughout the entire process, from property search and negotiation to closing the deal. With the growing real estate market, there is a demand for knowledgeable and trustworthy real estate agents. The key to success as a real estate agent is having strong communication and negotiation skills, staying updated with the local real estate market, and providing exceptional customer service.
Property management
Property management involves overseeing the day-to-day operations and maintenance of rental properties on behalf of property owners. As a property manager, you will handle tasks like finding tenants, collecting rent, handling property maintenance, and dealing with any issues that arise. With the increasing number of rental properties, property owners often seek professional property management services. The key to success in property management is having strong organizational and communication skills, being knowledgeable about landlord-tenant laws, and providing prompt and reliable service to both property owners and tenants.
Home staging
Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale with the goal of attracting potential buyers and maximizing its value. As a home stager, you will use design and decorating techniques to showcase the property’s potential and create a welcoming and appealing atmosphere. With the competitive real estate market, home staging has become an essential part of the selling process. The key to success in home staging is having a keen eye for design, staying updated with current design trends, and effectively transforming properties to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
Food-related businesses
Baking and catering
If you have a passion for baking and cooking, starting a baking and catering business can be a delicious and profitable venture. You can offer a wide range of baked goods and catering services for occasions like weddings, parties, and corporate events. With the growing love for homemade and artisanal food, there is a market for high-quality baked goods and catering services. The key to success in a baking and catering business is creating mouthwatering and visually appealing products, delivering excellent customer service, and effectively marketing your offerings.
Food truck
Food trucks have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a unique and convenient dining experience. Starting a food truck allows you to serve delicious and freshly prepared food to customers in different locations. From tacos and burgers to gourmet cuisine, the options for food truck businesses are limitless. The key to success in a food truck business is creating a distinctive menu, providing fast and friendly service, and strategically choosing locations to attract customers.
Specialty food products
If you have a passion for creating specialty food products like jams, sauces, spices, or candies, starting a specialty food products business can be a flavorful choice. You can produce and sell your homemade or artisanal food products either online or through local retail establishments. With the increasing interest in unique and high-quality food products, there is a market for specialty food products. The key to success in a specialty food products business is developing exceptional recipes, sourcing high-quality ingredients, and effectively marketing your products to reach your target audience.
In conclusion, home-based businesses offer a wide range of opportunities for individuals looking to work from the comfort of their own homes. Whether you are interested in starting an online business, providing services, offering consultations, pursuing creative endeavors, promoting health and wellness, providing education, managing events, working in the real estate industry, or entering the food-related market, there are endless possibilities to explore. By leveraging your skills, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit, you can turn your home-based business idea into a successful and fulfilling venture. So, go ahead and take the leap – the world of home-based business awaits you!