Eight steps for selecting office space

Advertiser Staff

• Calculate how much space you need before deciding where to locate your home office. Take into account how many computers, printers, fax machines, file cabinets and other equipment and furniture will need to fit into the space.

• Be flexible and think creatively. Even a walk-in closet or an alcove under a stairway can be used as an effective home office.

• Think twice before putting the office in an unused attic or basement. These locations might be too dark, too damp or require additional heating, electrical outlets and connections for phones or high-speed Internet called broadband.

• Consider that electronics can generate a lot of heat, so a small space without adequate ventilation might not be appropriate.

• Consult with family or housemates. Ask yourself and the people you live with questions such as these: Would an office area in a bedroom corner inconvenience a spouse? Should the office be off-limits to children?

• Consider situating your home office away from distractions. For example, if you have a lot of street traffic, put it in the back of the house away from the noise.

• Consider locating the office in a common area, such as a corner of the dining room, kitchen or family room if it's going to be shared by family members. That makes it accessible to adults who might use it to reconcile finances, while giving them a chance to keep an eye on the kids who will use it to write school papers or play video games.

• If you use your home office as a location to meet with clients, consider adding a separate door to the office. It's more professional and might help avoid the embarrassment of having your blue-haired, nose-ring-pierced teenager greet an important customer at the door.