H. - Its great you put it out there and you're getting a lot of advice. I have had my own business for 2 years now and tried a few before I found this one. As you are considering your options you'll need to consider a few things:
1) Do you want to sell products (ie. be a distributor)?
While there are great businesses out there where you have to sell product, you have to consider that you will have to invest your own money on these products, store them at your house and resell them. This also includes bookkeeping responsibilities, taking payments, throwing parties, etc.
2)Is it an MLM? This effects the compensation structure significantly. Usually, when you work, you are making more money for the folks above you than for yourself. Also, if someone below you does better than you they breakaway from you. So you did all the work with training and support then they breakaway and you no longer benefit from their efforts. Lastly, in most MLM structures, you can buy your way into higher levels. Its volume based so you can spend your own money buying more of your product so that you can hit a higher commission level. This last one is the key reason why so many MLMers go deep into debt and never really earn a profit!!
3) How solid is the company? Do they publicize earnings for their independent business owners? If not, red flag to stay away!!
4) Do they have an infrastructure (ie. team) in place that will train and support you along the way? This is so important!!! Especially if you've never done a home business before. If you don't have a solid support system to tap into, it can be your demise. Even if you are the sharpest tool in the shed.
Not sure where you are located but I am in NE Ohio and I have built a solid team and business in this area. (as well as all across the U.S.). I have never sold a products, I never spend any of my own money, and our team and company is rock solid!! This is not an MLM. If you're interested you can check me out at the following:
www.SucceedLikeMe.com and www.GoGreen4Health.com
I'd be more than willing to give you all the details of my business to see if its a good fit for you. Or, if you just need some advice, I'm willing to do that as well!
Good luck!
D.