The internet has helped to produce a new kind of entrepreneur and business person. Being able to sell online means that a bricks and mortar presence for the business is no longer required, and that also, niche markets can be catered towards.
In turn, this means that a person can carry on their normal job for longer, which is essential in those first difficult years in the life of a new business venture. At some point, though, the decision may need to be arrived at that the next step should be taken.
At this point, it's a whole new ball game. From a merchant account for start ups, to VAT registration and much more, it's probably best to get some form of financial or business advice at the early stages.
Whenever taking this next step, it is important to be realistic. If your online business venture is doing well now, will it continue to do well in the future? Also, how much room is there for growth and development? Some niche markets never earn a proprietor enough income to become a full time venture.
Making the decision to go from a part time venture to a full time living can be a hard one to reach, and a lot of thought needs to be put into it. It is advisable to have enough financial backing to pay your living costs for between a year to six months regardless of how the business does. At least this way you will always have a financial cushion.