Leveraging assets in order to finance a new venture is very common and often times that means leveraging one's home. The risk in doing so is that a default on the loan would likely amount to the loss the house, so it's not a risk everyone is willing to take. However, if you've put together a thorough business plan, including a detailed financial plan addressing a worst-case scenario, then you're certainly reducing the risk.

Consult with a financial adviser to ensure your funds are in order before investing in the start up!