How would you like to have a dynamite home business that experienced massive profits? I am here to tell you it is possible. Starting a successful and profitable home based business is easy as pie. That is if you follow a 2 simple precautions.1. Choose the right business. This might sound silly. However, this is the biggest mistake that people make. And, it is the number one reason home businesses fail. Thousands of home based businesses go out of business simply because of this one issue.2. It is critical that the would-be business owner complete a Business Plan. Starting a new business without one is placing the entire investment on a crab table. Believe it or not many people honestly believe that a 90 day plan or some quick start outlined summary along with a few how-to’s is somehow a business plan. Forget that. Without a well written Business Plan a new business is doomed be it at home or not. And, again this is the one of the biggest reasons home based businesses fail.Considering starting a new home based business? Get in line and join the ranks of hundreds of thousands who are turning to this work alternative. However, instead of turning into a depressing shirt losing statistic, it’s time to begin taking the steps necessary to get these 2 major steps completed.Getting started: How to select the correct business? A business that will be a pleasure to work and provide a generous income? And, how to write a good effective business plan? A plan that will launch the new enterprise into a profit making success?There are literally hundreds of simple work-at-home businesses just pick one. They can be divided into 2 categories. 1. Your very own business with your own product or service 2. Work as in independent contractor for a MLM Network Marketing company and sell the company’s product or service. Each has advantages and disadvantages.Go with your very own, simply select a business that is your passion, something that you really enjoy. For example, if you’re an exercise nut and you love to workout. Start a personal trainer service. That might be your cup of tea. If you’re a computer whiz/ geek, a computer service (the geek squad) or a web designer might be just the thing. Or, if you like animals consider a doggie daycare, grooming or walking service? Each one of these businesses can be run from home successfully.Other businesses include: child daycare service, floral/plant service for offices and hospitals, pooper-scooper service, answering service, vending machine service, homemade soap, lotions and potion, mobile windshield/tire repair service, dress maker, alterations, researcher, freelance writer, business card and letterhead designer, courier, shut-in/shuttle service, landscaping service, carpenter, pool cleaning service, garage sale and flea market vendor, private investigator, typing service, interior decorator/designer, wedding consultant, hot lunch/snack vendor, pet grooming service, catering service, media production, flower arrangements, graphic artist, mobile nail technician/ hair stylist, mobile message technician, advertising consultant, companion service. And the list goes on.Then there is Multi-level-Marketing (MLM) often called Social Networking? There are literally hundreds of MLMs and they are growing. MLMs offer the work-at-home entrepreneur ready made products and/or services. No need to manufacture, test market, develop or invent. No need for company branding. However, on the down side, MLMs have been shrouded in negativity. Many people tend to think MLMs are pyramid schemes or something totally negative. And, rightly so.Many illegal pyramid schemes have hidden behind the mask of of being an MLM. This charade has confused and robbed thousands of unsuspecting investors and consumers. Today MLMs are legal and they are truly and honestly the best way to earn a fantastic (residual) income. However, you should still be on your guard.How do you tell the difference between a legitimate MLM and a rip off Pyramid Scheme? Exactly what should you look for? Do your homework. It is important that you know how to tell a good deal from a hook. Honestly, there are hundreds of excellent, powerful and legal MLMs with quality products and services out there.Now that you have an idea of what you would like to do. It is also very important to complete a business plan. A bona fide business plan. A plan that you could take to a Bank or an accountant. That would not be a 90 day plan/Quick start outline. It is a well thought out and well prepared document.A good Business Plans considers operating costs, ‘target market’, investment, rate of return, schedules etc. Are there actually people out there who need what it is you want to sell or provide (service(s)?. Where are they and how will you find them?For example, your passion is making baby booties. You decide to go into your home business making baby booties, let’s call it the Baby Bootie Bonanza. Exactly how much is it going to cost to start up and run your business for one year?. I mean all costs, EVERYTHING (SUPPLIES, MARKETING, SHIPPING, PHONE SERVICE, STORAGE, ETC.)! What is your target market and how are you going to find them. And more importantly how much will that cost? Without a target market your new business will not be around long. And let’s not forget your rate of return. What is your rate of return going to be? When will you realize it? HOW MANY BOOTIES DO YOU HAVE TO SELL to realize a profit? A Business Plan will include all of this information and then some.This is where the rubber meets the road.