If you prefer working from home to working in an office, you aren't alone. Half of America's workers say they would prefer working from home over going to an office. In addition to the convenience of not having to commute, most people report that they feel more productive working from home.
When you first start working from home, you may simply end up working at your kitchen table or on the couch. It's important to create a dedicated office space, however. According to Stanford University, not setting aside a work-specific space is one of the most common productivity pitfalls people working from home face.
Whether you're buying a new space or simply revamping an existing room in your house, this guide from Plutio reveals how to create your perfect home office.
Find the right space for your office
If possible, set aside a dedicated space in your current home for working. If you're tight on space, get creative. You can tuck a desk into the corner of a guest bedroom, for example, or into a nook under a staircase. When selecting a space, make sure it's free of distractions and well-lit. Natural light enhances productivity and boosts morale. You can also make use of smaller spaces by using a standing desk, which eliminates the need for an office chair.
If you simply don't have room in your home to squeeze in a workspace, it may be time to upgrade your property. A Realtor can help you find your dream home. Before you buy a house, prepare by checking your credit score, determining your budget, and getting pre-approved for a loan. Redfin provides a comprehensive overview of the steps you should take to ensure a streamlined and stress-free home buying process.
Get the equipment you need to work at home
To ensure your comfort and convenience when working from home, you need to equip your office with the right furniture. You will need a desk and chair (unless you've opted for a standing desk) as well as storage space for documents. Prioritize ergonomic pieces that support spine health. For example, if you're buying a desk chair, look for one with lumbar support for the lower spine. Time points out that back pain is one of the most common complaints among Americans working from home, so avoid falling victim to an unsupportive setup.
You may be able to claim some of this investment as a tax write-off if you own your own business. Towards this end, consider formally establishing a business entity like a Limited Liability Company (LLC). SmartAsset explains this provides tax advantages, plus just as it sounds, it protects your personal assets in case of liability issues.
Design a space that fosters productivity
With the basis of your office setup in place, you can take care of the finer design details. You want to create a workspace that feels comfortable and fosters productivity. For example, if you plan to have other people in your office space, such as clients or vendors, accommodate them accordingly.
Keep in mind the practicalities of the situation; you should have an extra seating space as well as sufficient parking. You may even want to designate a separate bathroom in the house as the "office" bathroom for guests to use. And remember, as you outfit your workspace, keep your receipts since you can typically write these expenses off on your taxes.
With these tips, you can find, buy, and design a home office that is uniquely suited to your requirements. You will spend hours in your workspace every week, so you want this space to fit your needs and personality. Take the time to make it perfect.
With Plutio, you can manage all your business tasks and projects efficiently with just one app. Sign up for a free trial or book a demo with us today!
