Most businesses start from home. Think Steve Jobs, who started Apple in his garage, or William S. Harley, who launched Harley Davidson in a friend’s shed.

You don’t have to be a freelancer or sole trader to work from home either; there are numerous limited companies that you can start and run from the comfort of your own home.

Looking for inspiration? The UK’s leading company formation agent, 1st Formations, brings you their top suggestions below.

Sell Homemade Products Online

If you’re a creative entrepreneur who enjoys bringing projects to life, selling homemade products online could be the ideal limited company business idea for you.

Handprinted textiles, custom-made jewellery, and unique glassware are some of the most popular items in this industry, which has boomed since the pandemic and is on track to grow steadily over the next decade.

A key reason for this is the increasing attention to sustainability. Made-to-order goods are more environmentally friendly than mass-produced items, and materials tend to be more responsibly sourced.

On top of that, selling unique products that people can’t find elsewhere will give you a competitive advantage.

If you are passionate about this area, starting a homemade goods business from home is quick and easy. Sign up for independent seller marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon to get started.

Build Apps, Software, and Websites

Tech-savvy individuals could find fulfilling and lucrative business opportunities in building apps, software, and websites for other professionals. You’ll need to be skilled and experienced in coding and web design to create an attractive and trustworthy limited company in this industry.

You’ll also need great communication, collaboration, and time management skills to meet clients’ needs and deadlines.

The great news is that you can quickly start this business from home. All you need is a computer and suitable software, which you likely already have if you are interested in web development.

Many companies (especially small ones) often outsource these roles as it’s cheaper than hiring permanent staff.

Your potential earnings will vary based on location; however, according to Indeed, London-based developers earn upwards of £65,000 a year. But remember that as a limited company owner, you set your prices.

Produce Written Content

There is an increasing demand for high-quality written content. Artificial intelligence (AI) solutions like ChatGPT have become incredibly popular in recent years, but one of their major drawbacks is the absence of a human touch.

So, companies and other professionals seek skilled writers who can produce on-brand, SEO-optimised content. If you have a background in content writing, this could be the perfect way to start a limited company from home.

For example, you could produce blogs, website copy, or social media content. You only need a laptop and a portfolio to show your skills to new clients.

Offer Financial Services

Financial support like bookkeeping and accounting are other types of services that companies often outsource. This business is a little trickier than the others on this list, as you need specific qualifications like a certificate from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT).

Well, you don’t strictly ‘need’ them, but future clients are unlikely to pay for your services if you are not qualified. However, with the right credentials under your belt, starting a finance-based limited company could be incredibly rewarding.

If this sounds like a good option, we recommend operating as a limited liability partnership (LLP). This structure offers flexible internal arrangements and tax transparency, making it ideal for financial and accountancy firms.

Start Your Dream Business from Home

Hopefully, these short and sweet suggestions have inspired you. If you’re ready to take the plunge and work for yourself, we recommend registering as a limited company. Unlike the sole trader structure, the key benefits of limited companies include limited liability for the company’s debts, legal separation between the firm and its owners, and significant tax efficiency.

It’s also important to note that limited company directors must adhere to strict statutory filings and other obligations.

For help launching and running a limited company from home, look no further than 1st Formations. As experts in their field, they’ll assist you with your Companies House application, compliance, and more.

Published by Drake M.