Leveling Up - How To Choose Your First Office

So, your hobby became your side-hustle, which became your work from home business.  Now, you’ve outgrown the spare bedroom and need to look at getting a space to make your business dreams a reality.  

Finding your first office is very exciting and it can be easy to get carried away and then find yourself in an expensive, unsuitable space.  

There are many reasons other than a lack of space that might make you want to move to another office.  You might be too far away from clients or find working at home isolating.  Maybe you have kids and can’t focus on your work when you need to.  

Whatever the reason. When it comes to finding that perfect space, keep the following things in mind. 

Assess your current space

Working from home certainly has its advantages.  It’s cheap, there’s no commute, and it gives you the ultimate flexibility in your working life.  

Depending on why you need to change locations, then you could look at adapting your existing property.  If it is just a matter of space and you own your own home, a remodel, or even a garden office with dedicated telephone systems and IT could give you the creative space you need to be able to switch off from other distractions in your home.  

This might be the most expensive option in the short term but will quickly recoup its costs in the savings you make in other areas.  It may also add value to your property if you ever sell it.  

Co-Working Spaces

Some people thrive working from home but it can be very isolating.  That’s where co-working spaces can be a great idea.  A co-working space is a place where you can rent a desk for a period of time and they will provide internet, refreshments, and other little extras.  Depending on the location you choose, you can pay on an ad-hoc basis or have a rolling contract where you work there a day or two per week.  

Not only will you be getting that much needed social and professional stimulation, but it’s also great to have a change of scenery every now and then.  Chances are, you’ll be working next to people in the same situation as you and you’ll make professional contacts and even friends in your new co-working environment.  

Incubator Spaces

Leasing your own space can be costly and bring with it a lot of time-consuming admin.  This is where incubator spaces (or serviced offices) come in handy.  You select the size of the office you need and pay for this only.  The management company takes care of everything else such as reception services, meeting rooms, internet connection, and facilities management.  

This is a good option if you need a particular location and are thinking about hiring.  The terms are often very good, allowing you to be flexible. When choosing your location and building, try, and find somewhere that will let you expand the amount of space you need as you continue to grow.