Hanover’s Perspective
Simple Steps for Moving Your Business Out of Your Home
Have you decided to pack up your home office and move your business to a more professional location? Here are some simple steps for moving your business out of your home:
The First Rule of Real Estate: Location, Location, Location!
The best location for your office is dependent on how you can best service your target customer base. If you haven’t already performed a market analysis, now is the time. The Hanover Economic Development Office can offer business counseling and guidance, but it may be necessary to hire professional help.
You will also need to perform a cost analysis for rent, tenant fixtures, leasing fees and regulatory requirements like licensing and taxes for each location. Consider the neighborhood as well. Both Hanover County and the Town of Ashland offer incentives for certain businesses to move to specific areas such as within technology zones. If commute is an issue, you can look for office spaces near your home.
Co-working spaces offer a flexible and affordable alternative to traditional office spaces. Most co-working spaces, such as the Dominion Resources Innovation Center in Ashland, offer shared amenities such as free printer use, conference rooms and mentoring resources.
Size Up the Office Space
When looking at the office space itself, make sure you have enough room to accommodate your equipment, employees and a portion of your projected future growth. If you are entertaining clients in your office, also think about needs for a conference room, handicapped access or a location near public transit.
Double Check Your Expenses
Once you have a space in mind input the new costs associated with that space. Utilities for office spaces vary. Ask about the cost for heating, electricity and natural gas, internet availability, water and sewer before signing a lease. Ensure that your business profits and growth can cover new overhead expenses and that you are getting a good deal for the location and space.
Be Sure to Comply with Zoning Laws
Some types of businesses require specific zoning. Be aware of zoning restrictions of your new business location, contact the Hanover County Planning Department to learn about regulations important to your business.