If you want to start a blog, you can start off by using any kind of well-known website provider and then start from there. After that, you can start researching some of the best ways to make money from the blog. At least, that's what I did. It seems to be working pretty well for me
If the general niche is too competitive then choose a micro niche. And YES, you can make money with blogging. The easiest way is by promoting affiliate programs. You can place banners on your website and write reviews on products you understand and truly believe in. Just make sure you disclose the fact that you're promoting affiliate offers and may receive a commission if someone clicks on one of your affiliate links and buys something. All affiliate networks require this and could ban your account and/or refuse to pay you if you fail to do that.