Start-up cost: $300–$500 ($15,000–$25,000 more if you purchase a dedicated delivery vehicle) Potential earnings: $25,000–$65,000 (more in a major metropolitan area) Typical fees: Depends on mileage, but you can set fl at rates for specific types of courier service (such as international adoption paperwork for which couriers typically charge $150–$350 for taking papers to consulates [...]

Start-up cost: $500–$1,000 Potential earnings: $25,000–$100,000 Typical fees: 20 to 30 percent commission Advertising: Yellow Pages, memberships in local business and charitable organizations, local newspapers, Web site with link to Multiple Listing Service and a showcase area for your own current listings Qualifications: Real estate license Equipment needed: Cell phone, computer with Internet access, printer, [...]

Start-up cost: $3,000–$6,000 Potential earnings: $20,000–$45,000 Typical fees: $25–$35 per hour Advertising: Trade publications, networking, memberships in real estate and general business organizations, Web site, banner ads on Web sites for human resource professionals Qualifications: Real estate experience; knowledge of your area’s neighborhoods, attractions, amenities, schools Equipment needed: Office furniture, computer with Internet access, printer, [...]

Start-up cost: $350–$500 Potential earnings: $25,000–$45,000 Typical fees: $25 per hour or quote per job Advertising: Yellow Pages, community newspapers, coupon books, bulletin boards Qualifications: Trade school may be necessary for electronics repair, but otherwise just the ability to fix things Equipment needed: A well-stocked toolbox, cell phone, van Staff required: No Hidden costs: Possibly [...]

Start-up cost: $1,000–$5,000 Potential earnings: $20,000–$50,000 Typical fees: $150–$500 per resume (depending on location) Advertising: Yellow Pages, newspaper classifieds, Web site with testimonials, banner ads on job-search Web sites and career boards Qualifications: Writing ability, attention to important detail, strong organizational ability Equipment needed: Computer with Internet access, printer, and fax, paper, extra computer disks [...]