• Section: Money Guide - Category: Home Business
• Written by Kitara R. Wilson

Owning a business is the ultimate American dream. Being your own boss represents a type of freedom that isn't obtainable with a traditional nine-to-five. But knowing you want to be your own boss isn't enough to change your current reality. You have to know what type of business you can realistically go into. It should make sense for you and your interests, and it should be an affordable investment that won't put you into deep debt.

Most people who toy with the idea of starting a business look to franchises, and for good reason. Franchises are turnkey systems that allow owners to jump right in and follow the formula that has already been laid out. The downside to franchises is that they usually come with hefty price tags. While there are some franchises priced under $10,000, the average franchise in the United States sells from anywhere between $20,000 and $30,000. Big ticket franchises are priced upwards of $100,000, and these figures are just the franchise fee alone. Tha

t doesn't include other startup costs including construction and retail space (depending upon what type of franchise you buy into), legal fees, supplies, insurance, payroll or marketing and advertising. So if you're an average person living paycheck to paycheck, coughing up that kind of money isn't an option.

Others consider businesses they can start from scratch based on an existing skill they already possess. For example, a young woman who is very talented at styling hair and transforming a woman's appearance would consider attending cosmetology school and opening a beauty salon. While a promising business, the problem is that even though it doesn't require an upfront franchise fee, it does require the purchase or lease of retail space to conduct the business, all of the initial startup fees mentioned earlier plus paying for a license to conduct business.

With such financially-limiting options for the average person, getting a slice of that American Dream Pie seems hopeless. But it isn't. There is an affordable way to be your own boss, set reasonable hours and experience financial freedom without the large investment. It is through the direct sales/network marketing vehicle.

A model that has been in place for over 100 years, direct sales, also known as network marketing, is a viable option that was embraced by 15.2 million people in 2006 according to the Direct Sellers Association. Here are 10 reasons why direct sales/network marketing is so attractive:

1. AFFORDABLE - In most company structures, the investment to start your own home-based business is usually less than $1,000, with the actual administrative cost of getting started with the company a lot of times being less than $100. Where the additional cost factors in is with starter kits depending upon the type of business you invest in. Companies that specialize in nutritional supplements or beauty and skincare products for example, have varying levels of starter kits that range in price.

2. FINANCIAL FREEDOM - Unlike the traditional work model, you set the standard for your financial future. By leveraging your efforts with the efforts of others, financial independence is attainable faster, with virtually no limits.

3. TAX BREAKS - When set up properly, home-based businesses benefit from the many tax laws designed to help home-based business owners. A CPA or another professional who specializes in this area of business tax can guide you properly.

4. GREAT GROWTH POTENTIAL - While building your business you will undoubtedly acquire new skills that will be helpful in both your personal and professional life. Everything from honing leadership skills to mastering the art of listening are all positive byproducts of being a business owner.

5. CREATE GREAT RELATIONSHIPS - Owning your own direct sales/network marketing business is a great way to meet new and interesting people. In this business you'll have a lot of fun while cultivating new friendships and forming lifelong bonds.

6. RESIDUAL INCOME - This is the secr

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