There are a lot of home based business scams on the internet and in your local paper today. Here are a few tips that you need to know to avoid home business scams!

First, always be aware of hype. If a program promises to make you a million dollars overnight, obviously that is highly unlikely. Remember the old cliche - if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Look for reputable programs that promise to show you how to make an income. Anything from a few hundred dollars to replacing your job aren't unreasonable expectations, and with certain products and training programs you can even see a six figure annual income. Which brings us to the next point...

Try to find a home business program that offers extensive training. Sure, lots of programs promise to show you how to "work the business" - but you need to look for real, quality training that provides skills that you can transfer to other programs, businesses, and professions. If you can use the skills elsewhere, chances are they have a good quality training program that is worth investing time into.

Look for a product or service that you would actually want to buy. If no one wants to buy what you're selling, you'll have an awful hard time making any money with it. Despite what a lot of the fancy sales letters would have you believe, you won't make all of your money just by selling the opportunity. You have to sell the product as well to make any kind of a real profit. Real, reputable companies will view the business opportunity (which could also be known as a distributorship or franchise) as another way of selling their product - NOT as their sole source of income. Beware of companies who talk about their product as an "add on" to the business, not the main reason for the business.

Finally, look for unbiased reviews - and lots of them. If someone says nothing but good things about the opportunity, chances are you are looking at a sales pitch thinly disguised as a "review". Look for credibility, as well. If there are income statements, support, and pictures of the individual on the site that is a big plus. See if you can contact them, and as them for their honest feedback about the program. You'll probably get a lot of sales pitch from the people you contact, but there will be a few honest individuals who will offer up their advice.

Follow these tips, and you're likely to find a business opportunity that works for you - while avoiding the scams!