If anyone has even spent 5 minutes over the past month looking at the stock market, housing repossession numbers and job loss numbers, one would rightly think that the dreaded "R" word might be around the corner if it is not upon us already.

When the job market dwindles, pay cuts are feeling inevitable, is this a time that anyone should be looking at a home based business to fill in or replace the JOB void?

There are many reasons why the home based business market is not affected, and the following are my top ten reasons why you should be looking at starting a business and earning from home.

1. Start up costs are low. Many home based businesses give you options to start at less than $50. Unlike a franchise, the home based business offers a low risk but potentially high return on your investment.

2. No experience necessary. Ethical businesses provide on going expert tuition on marketing, follow up and presentations.

3. No need to re-invent the wheel or to get a graphic artist design degree, most businesses offer replicated high quality website presence to their members. Systems are capable of being duplicated, people are not. Most home based business opportunities have done all the leg work for you and have created sample ads, email messages, websites, hold training calls to keep the member working and motivated.

4. It is GREEN, to stay at home and work. Mothers can save on day care and transportation costs. I personally have cooked healthier meals for my family, having the time to balance my time in my business and kitchen.

5. Huge target market. Millions are looking at a business from home as a way to add to their income. 55 million people worldwide have said yes to one.

6. Tax savings implications of having a business. I do not profess to being a tax accountant, but if you are in business to make a profit, a percentage of everything from your heating to cooling costs, to your computer, advertising and even your accountants bill is tax deductible. Please consult a qualified tax accountant for complete details.

7. It is in a growth market. With more and more households owning a computer, the market share is growing globally. Direct selling has increased over 91% over the last 10 years.

8. A home based business is not your parents business. No meetings required, no board to illustrate the pay plan on. Anyone can conduct 100% of their business by using just a phone and computer. It is a respected business.

9. Self reliance and independence. You will not get fired unless you fire yourself. Work your own hours, make your own schedule and goals.

10. The American dream. If you work hard you can achieve anything. The dream is alive and attainable if you work for yourself, but you are no longer required to work by yourself.

Before you jump into a business, make sure you choose a home based business that works and is ethical. Talk to members, check the Better Business Bureau to make sure the business is accredited and attend a training call. Feeling good about the product, company and support will go a long way to ensuring your success.