Finding the Perfect House for Your Home Business
A Home Business Article Contributed by Alyssa Yerga
Keep Your Business at Home
If your home business is outgrowing your house, you may be tempted to think about moving your business to a new location. It makes sense since you'll be gaining more space, more customer traffic, and more parking. The move may make it possible for you to expand in ways you simply couldn't before. But moving your business means you'll have to pay rent for the space, in addition to the mortgage on your house you were paying before.
No matter how well you're business is doing, the hundreds or perhaps thousands of dollars you'll be paying out for rent is going to significantly cut into your profits.
Instead of looking into commercial buildings or strip malls, consider a move. A new house may be able to fill your home business needs, and save you the added expense of rent. Take a drive around your town and you'll see, lawyers, insurance brokers, seamstresses and many other businesses successfully run out of homes. So, rather than just heading out to look for a place to move your business, consider looking for a place to move.
Zoning Law Impact on Home Business
Look into your city or town's zoning regulations before you go too far in your search for the perfect house. Most allow for "no-impact" businesses to be run out of the home, but there may be restrictions that will apply to you. These restrictions range from who your employees are (in some cases, only family members allowed) to how many employees you have.
Zoning laws may also take into account the aesthetic look of your house, the signage you are allowed to display, and equipment you are allowed to have (any equipment that emits large amounts of noise, vapors, movement, or harsh glare is probably going to be prohibited). They will also keep an eye on the number of commercial vehicles you have on premises as well as how much traffic you bring into the neighborhood.
While you're researching your town's zoning laws, use discretion. Make calls from outside your home and don't tell them you are considering starting a business. Most towns or cities don't care what you do as long as you don't disturb the neighbors, so there isn't any point in alerting them to your activities.
Perfect House for a Home Business
Don't assume bigger is better when looking for a new home. Though it would probably be nice to have additional space, it doesn't matter how big the house is if the layout isn't conducive to a home business. A smaller house with an area that can easily be separated and closed off from everything else may work better than a larger house that will force the business to be in everyone's way. A house that comes with a large garage or outbuilding that can be converted to an office may be the answer.
The chances of finding the perfect house to live in are small. The chances of finding a perfect home that will work well for day-to-day living and your business are even smaller. Be prepared to compromise and be willing to remodel.
