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Consider sharing space
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February 7, 2000: 1:16 p.m. ET
If you are moving from a home office, think about this affordable alternative
By Jane Applegate
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NEW YORK (CNNfn) - Dear Jane: I am a freelance copywriter and editor who has been working at home for 10 years. Lately, I feel like I need to get out of the house and rent office space, but I'm afraid of the added expense and making a change. Any suggestions?
Working at home has some great advantages, beyond saving money on rent. Flexible hours and being able to work in your sweat pants are great perks. But, at some point, many folks need to get out of the house.
Rather than renting your own office, I would suggest trying to share office space with a compatible business in your city or town.
Place an ad in the local business journal or weekly newspaper, extolling your merits. Be specific about what you are looking for in terms of square feet, whether or not you need office furniture, a receptionist, phone service or high-speed computer lines.
Ask everyone you know to tell people that you are looking for affordable office space. When you find some options, check out the neighborhood in terms of safety, parking, traffic and the potential commute.
Make sure you can afford the rent, and try not to sign a long-term agreement. You also want to make sure the tenant has the right to sublease space. You don't want to get all settled and then be thrown out by the landlord!
You might also consider renting space in an office center like the ones run by Headquarters Inc. and similar firms. These companies provide turnkey office space and services to small business owners.
Having an outside office will probably encourage you to work a little harder and take on more projects to help pay the added expenses. But, that could be very good for you and your business.
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ApplegateWay
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