[clapsoewmred]

I actually run and operate two successful online businesses and am currently starting a third, so it is certainly possible. The only problem that I can see are the startup costs. If you're going to be selling any items, it's going to need to be an E-Commerce website that is capable of handling transactions via credit card. You could simply use paypal if you wanted to avoid having to set up a Merchant account, but it limits you since there are those that do not wish to use paypal to pay.

The easiest way to start up a business is simply to sell an item(s) that have a market, and people currently need. Simply think of a cheap, marketable item (lets say, Zippo lighters just as an example), and contact the manufacturer to see the minimum order needed to purchase at wholesale. If you do not want to set up a website (which can be pretty expensive if you want it fully customizable), you could simply use eBay or amazon as your primary vehicle or selling. In your case, this might actually be the easiest method since it won't involve any heavy up-front costs. Be wary, however, because the competition on eBay is pretty fierce.

If you do decide to build a website, learn the in's and out's of Google and Yahoo keyword pay-per click advertising. It takes a bit of trial and error, but there's no greater way to make your website visible than these avenues. I pay about $80 a day in advertising on average, but the sales that it provides me with far outweigh the costs involved. Most of all, try to have fun, since you'll be learning a great deal along the way!