A proper space to work is the key to productivity and efficiency, yet many people with home businesses suffer without an appropriate workspace. If you’re among those who lack a home office, why not create a space that will promote your efforts? Read on as we explore how to design the home office your business needs in order to flourish.
Elbow Room
The first step in designing a home office is to establish how much space you require to do your work. To do this, Business.com suggests not only contemplating what you currently do every day, but also your expectations for the future. Will you be expanding operations or hiring staff? Even a part-time helper would need extra space to work. Will you meet clients in your work area, or send and receive shipments? How much equipment do you need right now, and will that need change in the foreseeable future?
You may need to make some sketches to get a feel for what your dream office might look like, as well as draw up plans that cover what you absolutely must have right now. Include your furniture and equipment with the bare bones of how much elbow room you need for guests.
Weigh Options
Your next step is to evaluate your home and what spaces you could appropriate for use. A spare bedroom is a natural choice, but if you don’t have an extra room, think about areas that are seldom used or that could be used differently. Formal dining rooms can be converted into a more functional, everyday space, garages and basements can make nice offices, and even an outbuilding could be converted into a beautiful place to work.
Build a Budget
Oftentimes your transition is relatively simple. Perhaps you can have that spare bedroom ready to roll with furniture, equipment, and a fresh coat of paint. This is obviously your least expensive and easiest option. But if you decide to overhaul a space, you have more to think about. Basement walls might need finishing, a garage or shed might require insulation, wiring, and drywall, and you might be looking at adding some heating and cooling elements.
Business Insider explains that depending on what is involved, your renovations might be a couple thousand dollars, or they might be tens of thousands. Start pricing things out and get some quotes for your project.
There are many ways to cover costs that fall outside of your savings, like crowdfunding or a loan from a family member. A popular way to pay for remodeling is through a mortgage refinance, which is especially tempting when interest rates are low. Basically, you borrow the equity you have in your home, and roll it into one payment. Exploring a refi FAQ will tell you more.
Determine Details
Along with the location, layout, and potential construction of your new home office, start looking at the details that will fill the space. There are some obvious selections, like a desk, chair, and electronics, but also consider elements that will influence your comfort and productivity. Good air flow, natural lighting, and colors that promote positivity will help you remain energized and efficient throughout your work day.
Move Along
If you simply can’t squeeze out another inch of space for your new home office, there are a handful of other options. Moving to a larger home, or a property with space for an extra building, might be just the ticket, or you could consider a coworking space until you’re ready to transition into something larger.
If moving is a must, keep in mind that a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agency like Cribbin Realty can help you find the perfect place. Make some notes about your preferences and must-haves, and connect with someone who knows the market, inside and out.
Creating your perfect home office space begins with acknowledging your needs. Think things through down to the small details, from gadgetry to wall colors. With your decisions and plans in place, everything will come together in a space that will make you truly excited about your work day.
