While it might seem counterintuitive to launch a business at the same time you’re looking to make a move, if you time things right, it could be a great strategy, especially if you’re starting a home-based business.

Plot out your business needs before you start shopping so you’re sure to find a good match for your professional and family needs. Search Engine Spot can be your best resource when you’re ready to launch your company’s digital media strategy.

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Get Pre-Qualified

It’s much easier to house-shop when you know exactly what you qualify for. A reputable bank or mortgage lender can help you by assessing your credit score, your debt-to-income ratio, your available cash on hand, and the potential value of your existing home if you have one to sell. This will give you a clear picture of how much you can borrow, what you need to put down, and what type of loan product works best for you. Getting this step out of the way will also position you to make a fast, strong offer when you find the perfect house.

Start Looking Online

While a good real estate agent can be worth their weight in gold, you might want to start your search by yourself, online. This will give you a good idea of what types of homes (and price ranges) are available in your preferred geographic region. Keep in mind your business needs while browsing. According to Homes and Gardens, you’ll want dedicated office space, preferably in an area of the home that’s far removed from everyday family activity. Homes with finished basements, casitas, or mother-in-laws quarters may also work. 

Work With a Realtor

A real estate agent can be helpful in a number of ways. They may have access to early or “pocket” listings before the general public, and they can do some sleuthing on your behalf. For example, if you will frequently see clients on-site in your home-based office, you might be in violation of some homeowner association community rules and standards. In communities with a lot of new construction and tract homes, a realtor will also know which builders are known for featuring home offices in design plans, which can help you narrow your search.

Pack and Move

It can be a bit tricky timing your purchase of a new home and moving out of your existing home, so you may need to plan for short-term transitional housing and property storage. A good full-service moving company can likely aid you in all steps of the process. When you pack, keep personal items, important papers, and work products and supplies on you at all times. If you have to store belongings, make sure each family member has their necessities with them. When you get into your new home, setting up your workspace should be a top priority.

Get Your Business Off the Ground

If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to develop a business plan and a marketing strategy. This will help you chart all of the operational elements of your business, identify your competition, and establish a plan of action and a budget. Will you hire employees? Use independent contractors or freelancers? What kind of upfront investments do you need to make in terms of software, supplies, inventory, or equipment? Having a solid business plan developed will be helpful if you need to apply for small business financing.

Develop a Marketing Plan

Once you’ve done your research into your target demographic and your competitors, according to Inc., it’s time to decide how you’re going to set yourself apart in the marketplace. Will you offer better, or different products or services? How about price points? How will you reach and stay connected to prospects and customers? While advertising strategies will differ from one company to another and will be based on your budget and your audience, the most cost-effective way to reach a wide audience is through digital marketing.

Establish an Online Presence

Your business should have a dynamic website that’s responsive and interactive. If you sell products online, you’ll need professional photography, compelling descriptions, and an easy-to-use shopping cart feature. Being visible on top social media platforms is also essential, and you need to be a regular, strategic contributor. Email marketing can be another effective tool, especially if you’re providing prospects with compelling information, discounts, or specials. Make an effort to track the success of different platforms through data analytic features so you know what’s working, and what’s underperforming. 

Don’t Discount Grassroots Efforts

Of course, while digital marketing is effective, inexpensive, fast, and has a wide reach, there’s still something to be said about grassroots efforts. Engage family, friends, and colleagues to be your ambassadors and help increase your visibility with positive chatter. Network and build alliances by joining chambers of commerce or other industry associations. Attend events and workshops, volunteer as a speaker, and start establishing your presence. These inroads are more personal than mass digital messaging, and in some cases, they can be even more valuable.

Find a Work-Life Balance

Once you’re settled into your new home, everything is unpacked and your business is up and running, it’s important that you seek out that somewhat elusive work-life balance. Wherever possible, set regular working hours. When you’re done, close your office door and leave your business phone behind. When you live and work in the same place, it’s easy for worlds to collide and overlap. Try and make that the exception rather than the rule. Keeping your professional and personal lives separate will help you be more productive when you’re at work and more present when you’re at home.

Buying a new home when you’re operating a home-based business is a big undertaking, but it has exceptional benefits. No commute, flexible work schedule, and home office tax deductions, to name a few perks. Organization and time management are key, but once you have a system in place, it’s all engines go!

Search Engine Spot offers a range of services, from digital marketing and SEO to social media direction. Visit the site to access tools and resources and reach out via email for a consultation.

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