[Mcaleer]

Ok, so I enjoy computers a lot, and web design. So I've decided to start a small reseller hosting for some extra money.. but I'm not sure what I do about registering it anything and I have no clue what to do about taxes... need as much info as possible please.. thanks

[SBU]

Correct me if I am wrong, you want to purchase unique domain names that you think others would find value in so they can then be resold to them at a higher price? If this is the case I first must share my opinion on the industry and how I think it discourages small business development on the web because businesses that legitimately need those names have to pay hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars to acquire them.

Anyway, it is quite simple. You buy them from a domain host and then you sell them. I know Godaddy.com has an auction and a list for reselling domain names. But I repeat, I do not encourage this practice.

[Mcaleer]

No I'm selling web hosting for people who want websites

[Clough]

Part of what I do on the Internet, is I build websites for some of the groups and friends with whom I am involved at no cost to them. But, I do use the places where you can build a free website in order to do that. It has worked out well enough, that I am thinking of advertising to charge for such a service to others. Like one, initial fee for setting up the website for certain things, and then additional fees if they might want me to maintain the website for them. Is hosting websites like that something that you had in mind?

I'm just looking for a little further clarity as to what you are wanting to do and how you are going to be able to do it. My apologies for the confusion here!

Thanks!

[Mcaleer]

What I mean is I'm opening a webhosting business where people can purchase hosting to create websites. Im not sure what to due about starting it like about tax and registering the business

[SBU]

For business registration first visit your states Seceratary of State (SOS) website for registration info and then go to your city hall to more info on local registration. As to tax info, it really just depends on what kind of business you are going to have. If it is going to be a sole proprietership, LLC, s-corp, or if you are going to partner with a friend, it will all go on your personal income tax. However, you may be required to pay an estimated tax amt every quarter. If you select an LLC or s-corp I know you will also have to file a biannual report (unless that is just the case here in Iowa). All that info can be found at IRS.gov and at your SOS website. Hope this helps, sorry for all the confusion.

[tomterm8]

I would recommend starting by purchasing a reseller account, for example from hostgator. This will allow you to sell a few accounts without much risk, and without taking on a lot of the technical burden. After that, getting a cheap dedicated server at around $200 a month will give you a lot of flexibility.

The real problem is finding a niche market. It's hard to compete against people who can afford to sell you a months hosting for $5.