Photo via Pixabay by Markusspiske

These days, more and more people are turning to working from home. With so many advances in technology making it easier than ever to start a business or side gig, Americans are finding that it’s beneficial to have a distraction-free workspace at home to get the job done. Finding the room for it, however, is another story. You may need to consider building an external structure rather than converting a room in your home; not only will this give you more privacy, it will allow you to customize the space and keep your business life separate from your personal one.

Fortunately, there are several options when it comes to creating an office space, and they don’t have to break the bank. From building a small structure on your property to adding onto an existing space, there are many ways you can expand your home office. The key is to start with a solid plan, especially when it comes to budgeting for materials and the work itself. Some jobs are DIY, but where complicated work–such as installing electricity–is concerned, it’s best to hire a pro.

Build externally

Adding onto an existing space is one option, but building externally can help you keep your personal and business lives separate, as well as give you some privacy to work in. Working remotely can get complicated when you have a family to take care of as well, but with a space of your own to work in, you won’t have all the distractions and interruptions that you might if you were inside your home. Consider factors such as how much room you’ll need, whether you can wire it for a phone or Internet service, and what materials you’ll use. These are all considerations to make when coming up with a budget, as well.

Adding on

Adding an extension to your home can be a big job, but if you know you’ll be using that space for years to come, it may be worth it. Think about your specific needs before making any decisions, and consider how long you’re going to be in your home. If there’s a chance you might sell it down the road, an addition can add value and possibly get you a higher sale price if it’s done right.

Remember to think about a budget; in general, home additions average around $100 per square foot. Consider the materials that are already used in your home when it’s time to start construction so that everything will be uniform.

Think about the future

If you’re a small business owner and work primarily on your own, you’ll probably only need a modest-sized space to conduct your business in. If you have employees, however, or if you believe you’ll have them in the near future, it’s important to consider how much room you’ll need. Building a new structure comes with a lot to think about, including finding the right location and complying with zoning and construction laws, but it might be advantageous for your business to have a place of your own. You’ll need to do a little research to find out more about the laws in your area when it comes to the property itself–and what it can be used for–as well as the building.

There’s always a lot to consider when you tackle a home project; whether you’re adding onto your house or building a new space, the job will be a big one that requires a lot of patience and careful planning, especially when it comes to finding contractors and other help. However, preparation is key and can help you reduce stress while you create the office of your dreams.