Are you planning on starting a home-based business, or looking for a brand new space to run your small business? If you have a garage, converting it into your dream office could be the best decision. If you are wondering how to transform a garage into a home office, here are some tips that will make the project easier to handle.
Before you start renovations, there are some critical steps that you should follow to ensure that the project is a success. Follow these top tips for transforming your garage into an amazing workspace.
Complete all critical paperwork for your business
Newly launching your company? Be sure to finish all necessary paperwork prior to starting renovations on your garage. Although not critical for various forms and licenses, this is helpful for a variety of reasons.
First, completing all paperwork and applications helps with staying organized. When moving everything from one space to another, things can easily get lost. If everything is taken care of prior to your project, this will not be a concern. Also, it will give you the time and distraction-free environment to research everything needed for your business. For example, if you are looking into the benefits you get when you register your business LLC — such as tax advantages and limited personal financial liability — you can do so without feeling rushed. You can also give yourself the time to research state-specific rules and regulations. Finally, if you are running a food-related business, you’ll fully understand what specifications your garage needs to meet for inspections prior to meeting with a contractor.
Decide if you are going to use your garage for any other purposes
Another wise move is to assess whether you’ll be using your garage for any other purposes — or a total conversion. Space constraints can lead to the need to reserve a corner for storage or other uses. Take inventory of the items you currently have stored in your garage, and decide if they can be placed elsewhere (such as an attic or public storage facility).
Work with an experienced builder
Once you’ve sorted out the basics, it is time to contact an experienced builder. From pre-construction to post-construction, they can help you manage every stage of the project.
After contacting your chosen builder, they will work through elements such as budgeting, communication, and timelines. They will also collaborate with you to understand your needs and preferences so that they can create an exceptional design for your new home office.
Plan in advance: choosing a solution like VOIP for business, for your telephony, not only reduces your monthly cost, but also does not require any hard wiring, which will reduce your construction cost.
Add functional and decorative elements
Depending on the complexity of the build, completing your garage renovations can take anywhere from several weeks to several months. As soon as you’ve wrapped up the design and construction phase, you can begin to add both functional and decorative elements to your new dream home office.
First, decide on a wall color. This includes a primary color and accent colors. Next, make your new home office as functional as possible. Beyond various elements that were designed during the building stage, add more shelves, storage, and office equipment. Don’t forget to select a multifunction device that fits your space and needs: if your space is limited, you might opt for a tabletop multifunction device like the Canon imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX C357iF; if you prefer a stand-alone device, however, the Canon imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX C3835i might be a better choice.
Finally, add decorative touches that make the space your own.
Measure your new office for tax purposes
Don’t forget to measure your new home office for tax purposes. Self-employed individuals who work from home can deduct the square footage of their office space on their personal income taxes. If you have questions about this, consult with your tax professional.
A garage is an amazing space to use for a spacious dream office. No matter your industry, you can construct a functional and stunning room that meets all of your needs.