text: what are the 5 top home based businesses?   it depends. home businesses being how they are, it is hard to get information on them. so different websites have their own top 10 or top 5 lists, as well as different authors.   dan ramsey in his book "101 best home businesses"  identified the following as the best home businesses according to type. here are a few of them:  best businesses using craft or physical skills - antique restoration - auto detail service - carpet cleaning business - errand/delivery service - housecleaning business  best service businesses  - bed and breakfast operator - caregiver - catering service - senior day care center - tutoring service  best professional businesses - desktop publisher - magazine writer - import/export service - income tax preparation service - event planner