More and more entrepreneurs are starting businesses out of their homes. It allows you to have your own workspace, make your own schedule, and save money on overhead, among other benefits. However, as your company grows, you may realize that you need more space for inventory, equipment, employees, and/or clients.
That’s where upsizing your home comes in. Below, you’ll find some practical information and advice for home-based entrepreneurs who are ready to purchase and outfit a new home that accommodates a spacious, productive workspace for their businesses.
What Do You Need?
First of all, you want to ensure you find the right kind of home. Remember you not only want the home to accommodate your business but also to allow your family to live comfortably. Think about what you need in a home, and think about what you will need in the future as your company continues to grow.
For example, what is the ideal square footage and layout? How much space will you need for your office? Do you want to be located in a rural or urban area, and what kind of neighborhood are you looking for? Once you start to put together the details, an experienced realty team can help you get the ball rolling on your house hunt.
Planning Your Office
After you find the perfect home, you’ll need to quickly get your office together so that you can keep your business running smoothly. If possible, start planning out the space before you move in. Make sure you pick a room in the home that will allow for plenty of space for day-to-day operations. You’ll need space for equipment, inventory, and whatever people will be coming in and out of your office.
Also, think about how you can maximize your potential through your office design. For instance, as HMC Architects suggests, since natural light is known to boost productivity and well-being, establish your primary workspace near a window. And try to keep your workspace separated from the primary living areas of your home so that you can minimize distractions.
Another consideration is that you’ll want your office to be decorated and furnished so that it inspires you to work day in and day out. For example, while you can always paint your walls a fun color, installing wallpaper will really make a statement. There are durable peel-and-stick options these days that incorporate beautiful, elegant designs. They’re also made to allow for fast and easy application, removal, and repositioning. And if you go with print-on-demand wallpaper, then you can customize the design to your tastes.
If you’re going to be facilitating other team members, you’ll need to ensure everyone has adequate space for a desk and other equipment, and you might consider allowing them some say in the overall aesthetics of the office. If you’ll be getting regular client visits, then make sure you have attractive seating, decor, and other elements that make for a comfortable experience.
If your home-based business is ready for more space, that’s a great thing! Just make sure you thoroughly plan and prepare as you look for a new home. Figure out exactly what type of home you need in order to work and live comfortably, and put time and energy into planning out your office to a T.
This is a guest blog post, written by Amy Collett, of Bizwell.org.
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