Can you make money from a free website?

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I have heard more cons then pros about using free websites for any business adventures that one may have. Although, I have tried a few, I am always torn between staying with them or just paying for one. I wouldn't mind paying for one if I new a good one, but with just starting out, I would like to make a little money instead of spending a lot of it. What I was wondering is: Can you really make money using a free website. (As you might have guessed "I haven't" as just yet). And if I pay for one....What am I looking for to buy?