But since some businesses aren't well-suited to a home-based business environment, the big question is what kinds of businesses work well in a home environment. Even better, which home-based businesses can be started quickly with relatively few startup resources?

Right out of the gate, you need to know that home-based businesses aren't for everyone. A home-based business can easily spiral out of control, especially during the startup phase of a rapidly growing company. However, if you believe you are up to the challenge of home-based entrepreneurism, it's important to choose a business that has a successful track record in the home-based arena. With that in mind, here are five great business ideas that can be launched from home without draining your savings account.

Tutoring

Demand for tutors is at all-time high as parents jostle to boost their kids' GPAs before they are thrown into the competitive college application process. Although you don't need much startup capital to launch a tutoring business, you do need to be proficient in at least one subject area, preferably math, science, or a foreign language – the most sought after subjects for tutors. With weekend and evening hours, and hourly fees ranging from $25 to $75 an hour, it's possible to continue working your full-time job until your tutoring business takes off.

Light Delivery & Errand-running

Time is money and there are a lot businesses willing to pay someone else to run small errands like picking up material from the printer. If you already own a car, the work is easy and the reward can run in the neighborhood of $10 an hour – not bad if you consider the possibility of working several deliveries simultaneously. To get started touch base with local businesses and advertise yourself with 24 hour a day contact information.

Tax Preparation

If you have even a little accounting experience, you may be primed for a tax preparation and bookkeeping service. Startup costs will include a computer, printer, and tax preparation software, but with the right preparation and marketing initiatives you can be raking in $25 an hour or more all day from January to April.

Cleaning Service

You can take advantage of the fact that no one likes to clean by making cleaning the focus of your home-based business. Before you launch, you'll need to decide whether you will specialize in residential or commercial cleaning. Even though many cleaners advertise both, cleaning businesses usually concentrate their expertise in one area. Another key to success is to learn how to clean things that are difficult or especially revolting to most people (e.g. windows or swimming pools).

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is often done on location, making it an ideal fit for a home-based business. If you enjoy massaging, get the appropriate license or certification and set up shop. In addition to certification costs, you will need to purchase a minimal amount of supplies and equipment. However, at $100 an hour, you can potentially recoup your investment and turn a profit in no time.