speaking from someone who has tried a LOT of work at home stuff, there is a lot that you have to consider. First of all, a work at home job does not pay the same as a work outside of the home job. They are virtually all commission based, even if you are not selling something, it is based upon what you have done., not hourly. there is just no way for a company to REALLY monitor what hours you are working. There are a few exceptions to the rule, like running an in-home daycare or doing medical transcribing, however, you need to go through licensing or have a degree to do those.
Also, basically anything is going to require a fee of some sort. Sometimes it is to help get all your materials to get started, sometimes it is a membership, sometimes it is for a website. But it is basically the norm and nothing to be afraid of unless it is something crazy, like hundreds of dollars, or an every month fee. Look at it the same way as having to buy special shoes or a uniform for a work outside the home job. there is always a fee somewhere! lol. you just want to make sure it is actually FOR something. start up costs are crazy if they arent FOR something. if it is refundable, even if its just for a short time, that is a plus too.
I work from home with a wellness company now and i love love love it! but i know that it is not for everyone. It is pretty simple, its not a get rich quick thing, but i bring in at least a couple hundred bucks each month and that really helps our family out. I just talk on the phone and work on my computer and i really enjoy it. I know its not for everyone though, because i know some people arent comfortable talking on the phone. (you can check it out at http://www.PerfectWorkForMoms.com if you want) Whatever it is that you chose or decide to do, remember that it is really up to you! to be successful at a work at home job or career you need to have a lot of patience and self discipline to make it work! i hope you find what is perfect for you!