TWENTY BRILLIANT IDEAS FOR A HOME BUSINESS

1. TYPING. Many people still don't have access to a computer, and even if they do, many are not confident enough to lay out or type a letter themselves. Offer your services to people who want a one-off letter written to a lawyer or offer your services as a work-from-home typist to small companies. You could even offer to pick up and deliver letters once they are signed.

2. LAUNDRY. Not as labor-intensive as it may sound with today's appliances. Pick up and deliver the laundry of busy people. Offer to take dry-cleaning in for them as an added extra. If you don't want to offer the whole laundry service, you can also make money just doing ironing or picking up dry cleaning.

3. PET WALKING. Walk someone's dog during the day when they don't have enough time to give it the exercise it deserves. Sometimes pets just need a bit of attention during the day. You could offer to go to people's homes and feed their caged pets while they are on holiday, too.

4. PET GROOMING. If you are confident at grooming your own pet, why not offer the service to other pet owners? Invent a name for your company, pack up your brushes and scissors, and jump in the car - mobile pet boutique!

5. CHILDMINDING. You will have to get the appropriate registration for this, but if you are at home with your own children, then this could be for you.

6. SELL THINGS ON EBAY. Start by getting rid of your unwanted goodies, then pick up things from charity shops or garage sales - one man's junk is another man's treasure.

7. HOUSE SITTING. Many people who travel need someone to look after their house while they are away, to deter burglars, look after the budgie, water the plants etc.

8. PHOTO SCANNING. Lots of people would like their photos transferred to CD or DVD, but don't have the necessary equipment or know-how to do it. Offer this service in the local newspaper or online.

9. HOUSE DOCTORING. Families who want to sell their houses often can't see the way it looks to outsiders. Walk round their property and write a review of their home as seen from the buyers point of view.

10. DE-CLUTTERING. A lot of people would like their home to be clearer of clutter, but can't decide what to throw out. A fresh pair of eyes and the chance to talk through emotional issues is often what is needed.

11. HAIRDRESSING. Obviously, you would need to be trained to do this, but it's a wonderful business to do from home. You could even have

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Good small businesses to start from home?
We want to hear your view. Write now!