If you are really serious about building a long term income (residual income)and making money at home, a home business is the answer.That being said one must do their homework before making a decision.There are many legitimate companies available but there also many who fail in their first year or two. How do you make a decision? The following are the things I have learned to look for.Some of these I have learned the hard way!

Established Company
At least 5 years old and debt free

Product
Something that people are familiar with and already using. This is extremely important because most companies with a strong compensation plan and residual income potential will require you purchase a product auto ship.(As it should be-if youre not using the product how can you expect others to.)

Fair and Equitable Compensation Plan
The big key here is the residual income plan. Its not the short term income that matters as much as the long term residual plan. How much will I be earning 1 year or 3 years from now if I follow the duplication of the plan.

Duplication,Training and Support
There must be a plan in place that you can follow step by step. I don't mean the garbage hype that says we do all the work for you".Successful home businesses take an investment of time, effort and yes some financial commitment.There are some wonderful tools available that help to build your business.Different companies have more available than others but in my opinion there is no such thing as 100% automation. The most important question most prospects will be asking is "How am I going to build this business?I am not a sales person." The correct answer to this question should be" Exactly how I found you." For instance with the business I'm presently building I purchase leads who have already been to my website and requested more information. When I receive this lead I know that they have seen my site.They automatically receive an e-mail from me stating that I will be calling them.They also receive 5 more e-mails over a 10 day period. In my back office of the website I have a prepared script to read when calling these prospects.I'm not calling them to sell them but to interview them to see if this a person I want to be in business with.Do they qualify to work with me? If I feel that they do I will invite them to a conference call which my company holds 5 times a week explaining how the business works along with product information. This is a plan that is proven and easy to duplicate. A responsible sponsor will ensure that you understand and should help you learn to duplicate. This is not only the key to your success but in the long run theirs also.

That being said do not make the mistake of many and totally discount those prospects with no internet access or who are computer illiterate. I have had many business partners who have found success with holding meetings. This worked years ago and still does. Business partners are provided with a DVD and show this to their prospects.Immediately after watching this DVD they listen to a conference call.In my present business their prospects are able to try the product during this process.Again this is something that anyone can duplicate.