I'm not breeding yet, but it is certainly a dream of mine when hubby finally retires from the military and we settle into a permanent home. But here are my thoughts about the issue...from the point-of-view of someone who is looking toward future potential as well....
As with ANY entrepreneurial endeavor, those with the right combination of business savy, work ethic, guts, and luck can succeed as much as they wish to. For MOST of us, it's simply a hobby that we hope will pay for itself because we love the animals so much. No matter what your ultimate goal is, success IS possible if one is willing to work hard enough and smart enough.
My advice is to take the time to really learn and absorb as much as you can. I've been doing this for years, and still feel like an utter newb on many levels. But the slow, deliberate process of learning will help you to refine and define what YOU really love and are most passionate about. It will also help you to build genuine relationships with other members of the community and you can build a good, solid reputation even before you begin trying to sell anything. You'll also learn who to trust and what red-flags to avoid.
Be very, very patient when it comes time to spend some money. Make sure you're working with a trustworthy person and not just jumping on the first exciting "deal" that comes along. Also, make sure you're planning your acquisitions carefully to build toward the projects that fascinate you the most. Most importantly, QUALITY animals make QUALITY offspring. Be patient and watch diligently for the very best examples of the morphs you love. Rather than just buying up the first lesser or pastel you see just because it's "the morph"....look for the ones with the most pleasing patterns and vibrant colors that will have the greatest chance of producing exceptional offspring. You'll never regret passing on an ordinary pastel...but you might someday regret not spending a few extra dollars on that amazing one that made your heart race.
Good luck!!
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