Introduction

So you're thinking about starting a home-based business? If so, you're not alone. Filled with hopes, dreams, optimism and energy - not to mention great ideas - thousands of Albertans start home-based businesses each year.

There are three main factors driving this trend to home-based businesses:

• Quality of Life - Many Albertans believe that becoming their own boss will improve their quality of life. They want to spend more time with their families, pursue other interests, or get away from the daily grind of commuting and working out of an office every day.
• Economic Necessity - As both the public and private sectors continue to restructure, many Albertans are looking for new and creative ways of earning an income that supports themselves and their families.
• Technological Improvements - Advances in computer and communications technology have made the home a more feasible, practical, efficient and affordable place to do business.

A home-based business is the best option for many people and may be just right for you. However, as with any life-style or business decision, there are advantages and disadvantages to operating a home-based business.