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Working from home can be a blessing or a curse, depending on whether or not you have the right tools and workspace to accommodate your needs. If you’re running a small business or are thinking of starting one from home, there are a few things you’ll need to think about in regards to your office area. You might even need to go bigger and buy a new home altogether. If you’re looking to make a move, FSBOHomelistings.com can help you buy or sell without the need for a realtor.
Consider how much space you need
Buying a new home with the intention of running a business from it requires a little more thought than a normal purchase. You’ll want to consider how much space you need to work in as well as what your storage requirements are, especially if your business includes physical inventory. If you have employees, even just a couple, think about how much room is necessary for everyone to get their jobs done safely and efficiently. When you have a list of features you want in a house, check out FSBOHomelistings.com for homes that are for sale by the owner.
You might also consider building a new home. This is a great way to ensure that you’ll have everything you want and need in a space, but the process will be more time-consuming than buying and will affect the time frame for selling your current house. Read up on the details and make sure it’s a viable option before committing to a build, and talk to a realtor who can help you through the process.
Renovate to create the office of your dreams
Building or buying may not be right for you. If your current home has great bones but needs a little facelift, consider renovating to create the perfect workspace. You might knock down a wall to make some room, or turn an unused basement space into an office your friends will be jealous of. You can even convert your garage into an area for your business that allows for privacy and zero distractions. Just keep in mind that your city may require permits for structural changes. Renovations can also affect the value of a home, so it’s best to consult a realtor who can help you make decisions.
Other permits you may need include a business license or sales tax permit, which allows you to collect tax on the items you sell. You may also want to consider forming an LLC, or Limited Liability Company, which comes with several tax benefits and helps you keep your business and personal incomes separate. Filing for a New York LLC through an online formation service will help you avoid attorney fees, but read up on the process and familiarize yourself with the rules before you proceed.
Redesign to get the most out of your office
Running your business or LLC from home means you may need to think about new design choices that will save space, keep you organized, and stay on budget, and it’s also important to consider the tax requirements for writing off expenses. Look for furniture that has built-in storage and upgrade your devices so you have the best technology for your business needs. A new laptop or tablet doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg; you can easily find cheap deals on a variety of best-selling devices. Don’t forget to shop for a comfortable and affordable desk chair; read reviews and compare prices to find the perfect seat.
Creating the perfect home-based business won’t happen overnight, so it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to plan and budget. Weigh all of your office space options carefully before committing, and look online for deals that will help you save money on your journey. With the right space and the right tools, you’ll be on the path to success.
If you plan to buy a new home soon, consider the DIY route and avoid hefty realtor fees by using FSBO Listings to locate the perfect house!
