Work no longer needs to be done in an office! These days, we can work from just about anywhere that we please, provided it has a reliable internet connection and a comfortable working environment. And when it comes to your own home, if you don’t have those things, you can very easily make them! More and more modern workers are taking advantage of the possibilities that come along with remote work, and this is something just about anyone can do, even if you don’t have an extra room just waiting to become your new dedicated workspace.
Just about any garage can actually be converted into the home office of your dreams, and it doesn’t have to cost an arm or a leg to do so, either. Even if you wind up having a garage built, creating your very own work area at home can be a lot more cost-effective than you might think. And when it’s finished, you’ll have your very own productivity domain to enjoy, day after day.
Garage Shield shares a few of these easy strategies. They might save you a few bucks or even a bit of a headache when you’re ready to put together the home office you’ve always wanted.
Ensure Your Ability to Keep Connected
One of the most immediate problems you might need to solve when putting together your garage-turned-workspace is connectivity. Since most garages were not exactly designed with wireless — or even hardwired — internet connectivity in mind, you might have to do a bit of IT work yourself to get online. At the bare minimum, you’ll only need to add a router to tap into your home’s wireless network. Alternatively, you can look to your cell phone provider to invest in a hotspot.
Consider Building a Space
If you have a bit of a constructive streak, you might even consider building your own garage for the purposes of having a home workspace. This will be a significant investment, so you’ll want to make sure you pick the right materials for both your budget and level of expertise.
Wood can be more expensive and easier to work with, and it also tends to require more regular maintenance and upkeep. Steel, on the other hand, is arguably sturdier and longer-lasting while also requiring less in the way of recurring maintenance. Either one will make a great choice, but it’s smart to consider your limitations before making a choice.
Remember to Make It Comfortable
You’ll probably realize pretty quickly that most garages, along with Internet connectivity, weren’t designed with regular habitation in mind. In other words, they’re not super comfortable. Additionally, in order to help control the temperature inside your new office, you need to make sure you isolate both the ceilings and the walls; you can hire a local insulation contractor to handle this job. Aesthetics are important, too. Your workspace should reflect your personality and tastes; after all, you’re going to be spending hours of the day in there on a regular basis.
Business Basics Help You Start Strong
If you’re embracing this undertaking with the goal of starting a new business, there are some non-physical elements that are essential to your success. As you work your way through sorting the details of where remember to cover the legalities involved with a new venture. Ensure your location allows for businesses to operate in a residential area, and apply for any permits that might be needed.
Also, decide what business structure is best for your business and register as an LLC with your state so you don’t get into trouble with the government. You can do this quickly and easily through a formation service. Also, you might even need to charge sales tax, depending on what your product or service is and where you live. Speaking of taxes, a dedicated space will allow you to take advantage of certain tax write-offs, so save all the receipts from your project!
A home office is a great way to do what you love in a way that allows you to enjoy doing it. Working at your own pace and on your own time is a great way to stay productive while also balancing the other demands that come with a full life, and having the perfect home office in which to do said work makes it all the more fulfilling and enjoyable.
If you want to ensure that your garage door stays safe and secure, Garage Shield is the solution. To learn how our product can provide protection to your garage and your new home office, get in touch with us by clicking here.