Home-based Real Estate Real estate is a fantastic way to make money while staying at home. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) over 70% of realtors across the country have a home-based work place. With the aid of personal computers, new technological systems, phone, faxes and the internet, a home-based real estate business is a reality. Doing business at home is a great way to spend more quality time with family and friends, while gaining a sense of independence and personal satisfaction. Though setting up a home business is not easy, having a real estate home business has very few drawbacks. For those who prefer a flexible work schedule, a home-based real estate business can be the perfect choice. Home-based real estate is a great way to earn money and one of the most powerful investment tools in the new millennium. A home-based real estate business can indeed be a highly profitable business venture, a bona fide way to earn over $100,000 per year, tax-free. Real estate is not just about buying and selling homes or property, it is much more complex and multifaceted. There are many different areas of real estate such as residential real estate, commercial real estate, Seller Agents, Exclusive Buyer Agents, Dual Agents and Transaction Brokers. The most lucrative real estate job these days is surely the home-based real estate appraiser. Real Estate Appraisers The main job function of a real estate appraiser is determining the value of a property or structure. Real estate needs to be assessed and evaluated prior to its sale, when refinancing, getting a home equity loan or insurance and in the event of foreclosure or bankruptcy. Real estate appraisers are also needed for investment decisions and other decisions with regard to the sale of a property. A real estate appraiser's job description includes checking real estate records, inspecting and measuring property details, and calculating the value of a property based on local and industry guidelines. The potential customer base for real estate appraisers include banks (when they grant a mortgage or foreclose a home loan), lawyers who are involved in estate distribution or property dispute cases, individuals who are selling or buying a home, persons contesting real estate taxes, government officials who reassess property, and insurance carriers prior to property damage settlements. To become a real estate appraiser one needs to contact their state's licensing division for license and certification information. Credentials are very important in this business and can be acquired through professional training and experience. If you are interested in setting up a real estate appraisal home business, you need to create work samples to show potential clients and prove your credibility. As with any other business, networking is very important as one needs to develop personal contacts with mortgage companies, investors and banks to be on their list of approved estate appraisers. Joining the NAR is a way to get your home business noticed and taken seriously. Potential earnings for a real estate appraiser per year can reach up to $75,000 for residential appraising, and commercial appraisals can bring in around $100,000 per year.