When bootstrapping a business, you need to save money wherever possible. One fantastic way to do this is to use your garage as Ground Zero for your business. After all, even Apple got started in a garage so it’s not like it’s a bad idea.
How successful your business will be is another matter, but if you want to make sure you are spending your money on growing the business and not on somebody else’s rent, then this is a good way to hedge your bets on your business.
In this article, i will give you several things to think about when you are getting ready to start a home based business out of your garage:
1. Have Some Security
The worst possible scenario when building a business in your garage is for somebody to break in and steal your equipment, money or anything else that your business relies on to get off the ground. Especially in the beginning when you are running on some very tight margins and not making much money at all.
It pays to have a smart security system complete with a motion detection camera that connects you via your computer or smartphone remotely. You can monitor what is happening when you are away from home to make sure that nothing is out of place.
There is an added benefit that you can also open your garage door remotely to allow your packages to be delivered and left inside the garage and then closed as soon as the delivery is made so you don’t run the risk of them being stolen.
Vivint home security is one of the most popular systems that can keep your business safe and secure.
2. Make Sure the Business is Suited for your Garage
Just about any home based business can be done in a garage, but certainly not all of them. Obviously if you have clients that you need to work with then having face time in your garage might not be the best idea. Also, if you are going to be manufacturing things then it will need to be inspected and given the go ahead by the local authorities.
Most people using their garage for a business are simply using the space to not disrupt the house too much with a home office. You can be a software developer or even an Etsy crafter, but it has to be something that doesn’t require anything too resource dependent that may not clear the authorities.
3. Set Up your Own Space
If you use your garage for its intended purpose, i,e, to park your car, then you’re going to have to make sure that you set up a separate space within the garage. Not only for your respiratory health, after all there will be lots of fumes, but also for productivity.
When your desk and essentials for running the business are overrun by other garage stuff, then you won’t be able to work well. Clutter is very stressful and can really set you back.
Make sure to divide up the garage and even put up a temporary wall in one corner if you are able to so it does feel like its own space.
4. Know When to Move Out
A very nice problem to have is when your garage based business needs more space. There is a moment when you will need to make the call that you have to upgrade your space. If you don’t do it on time, you risk your business failing. If you realize the time is right then you will be able to actually grow your business.
It may mean a larger space to create or fulfill orders, or it could be because you need to hire some employees. But, if your business is ready to grow, you can’t let the garage be the thing holding it back.
