Safe Luxury

Officefront vs. Home Office?

I am in the process of starting an errand service company in my area. Just out of curiosity, I have been looking at some office space. Well, today, I fell in love with this one office/store. It is 400 sq. ft. and located right next to a very popular boutique. It is $400 a month, they pay water, I pay electricity (which she says is very low). I had originally wanted to run my business out of my home office but since I found out that my parents are giving me $6000 to start and run my business, I have been toying with the idea of renting an office space. I have been trying to list pro's and con's but I just can't decide and was wondering if y'all would give me some feedback. Home Office Pro's- Free, tax advantages, already set up with my computer, desk, printer, office stuff, etc, location is good Con's- kind of cramped, especially when hubby is on his own computer doing his homework/goofing off, having a home office means not being "out there" Renting Office space Pro's- Space, lots of traffic and potential customers coming through, being "out there", safe area with police patrols regularly, great location Con's- the added cost, will need to buy separate office supplies, printer, desk, store sign etc What do you think? The office space will be available in August, which would give me enough time to get everything together for the grand opening in September.

Public Comments

1. The question is, do you *really* need an office for an errand running business? Are you expecting walk-in clients? Who will actually be running the errands if you're sitting in an office? I personally would say you do not need to rent an office, but should establish an home-office, so you can get the tax write-off of the expenses thereof. Did you write a business plan yet? Did you do a SWOT analysis? (strength/weakness/opportunity/threat) How about cash and expense projections? --- Kasey C, PC guru since Apple II days Saving is great... especially if done by your parents.