In many ways, a home-based business is just like any other small business: a service or product is provided to customers in exchange for payment. And, just like other businesses, a home-based business will need a positive reputation (goodwill), a customer base, and possibly, inventory. Sometimes, it's easier, faster, or more economical to buy those aspects of a business rather than building them from scratch. When it does make sense, buying a business can be a quick way to get yourself up and running.