Have you decided that your home is no fit for your small business idea? Whether you need an office, a workshop, or a client-friendly business space, moving into a new home is a great way to ensure your home business won’t clash with the rest of your household. But, of course, moving and starting a business at the same time is no easy feat. To help you navigate the process without losing your mind, QualityHow is here to share some helpful tips!
Look for Business-Friendly Home Features
When you’re ready to start house hunting, look for homes that will be suitable for both living and working. Get clear on your house-hunting criteria ahead of time.
Do you need an office with a separate entrance for business guests? What about a detached workshop where you can build products without disturbing your family? Whatever the nature of your business, make sure your new home will accommodate your plans easily.
Remember to think about non-business-related home features that will make your work-life easier. For example, you might want to be close to a school so you won’t have to take a lot of time out of your workday for drop-offs and pickups. Make sure the surrounding neighborhood is quiet and free from constant distractions. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in your home office, make sure the room has good natural light and a pleasant view.
Once you know what you’re looking for, you can start the homebuying process. Make sure you know what to expect at every step. For example, checking your credit score and calculating how much you can afford will give you a better idea of your mortgage qualifications. Even better, seek a mortgage pre-approval for a more accurate price range.
Plan Your Move Far in Advance
Since you’re juggling a startup and moving at the same time, be sure to plan your move far in advance. The earlier you start checking items off your moving checklist, the better. Now is a great time to declutter your home and get rid of things you no longer want or need. The last thing you want to do is spend time and money moving a bunch of boxes that won’t even get opened in your new home!
A couple of other moving tasks you can handle in advance include:
- Requesting time off from work for your moving day.
- Researching and choosing a new school for your kids.
- Booking movers for your move date.
- Ordering packing supplies.
- Researching internet plans in your new location.
- Scheduling the transfer of your utilities.
Real Simple also suggests packing your off-season clothing, equipment, and decorations now since you won’t need these items before your move. Having a few boxes packed and ready to go can save you time and stress as your move date draws closer.
Prepare the Launch of Your Business
As you prepare for your move, start working your way through your business startup checklist as well. Conducting market research is one of the first things you should do. This is how you will gather information about your potential customers as well as business competitors already operating in your industry.
You’ll also need to write a business plan, access funding, register your business, choose a business structure, and put together a remote team. Keep in mind that operating a business from home does not absolve you of the responsibility to obtain business licenses and permits. You can typically find information about your licensing requirements on your city website.
Moving into a new home and starting a business at the same time is far from impossible. If you need to move into a home that’s more accommodating to your business, go for it! With careful planning and good research—and a top-notch real estate agent—you’ll sail through the moving process and get your business off the ground before you know it!
