Starting Your Home Business On A Skinny Budget

Any business has costs involved when things are first getting started, and a home business is no exception. While you certainly must spend some money to get your home business off the ground, it is possible to make things work on a reduced budget if you are willing to get creative with your efforts. This article provides some helpful advice for starting your home business without spending a fortune.

When starting your home business, you will likely need office supplies and furniture. This might include a fax machine, computer, desk, chair, filing cabinet or other such items. While you will certainly want to buy some of these items new, a great source for many of them can be found at local garage sales. Many individuals sell office items such as desks and chairs at garage sales for a loss, meaning you can reap the rewards. Garage sales also offer wonderful negotiating opportunities. Take a look at your Sunday circular and find a few that are close to home in order to make this a viable option for you.

For items that are best purchased new, consider the Internet to be your friend. You can find Internet deals on things like computers, printers, fax machines, telephones and other such required office supplies. Internet retailers often do not need the same number of staff as brick and mortar stores, allowing them to keep their costs low and pass savings on to consumers. Always compare prices between your local stores and Internet outlets before making any purchasing decisions for your new office.

Another great way to save on things you know you will use a lot of is by buying items in bulk. Several office supplies, such as paper, envelopes and mail packaging materials can be purchased in bulk. Any crafty items you might be using for your business venture can also be purchased in bulk. Take a look at the things you will use the most in your home business, and buy a larger supply of those items when it makes financial sense to do so. This can save you 50 to 70 percent versus buying smaller quantities, making it a smart decision when setting up your new business.

Finally, look for ways to advertise your business without spending a lot. Advertising is important for any start up business as it will draw in customers and get your product name out there. While there are many advertising opportunities available if funding is unlimited, there are also a good amount of free or inexpensive opportunities to be had too. Consider using Facebook and Twitter to advertise your business, post ads on sites like Craigslist. Put up flyers in your local coffee house, laundry facility or community rec center and never discount the importance of word of mouth advertising too. This is a great way to begin establishing your client base with limited funds, and it can certainly help you to get your business off the ground.

There are always costs involved in starting a home business, but you can minimize these costs if you are willing to put in a little time and effort. Follow the advice outlined here to make the most of your limited dollars when getting your new business off the ground.