If you’re preparing to jointly Launch Your Startup and move homes simultaneously, you’re in for a lot of work. But if you thoroughly prepare and approach it the right way, you could also set yourself up for the most exciting adventure of your life. There’s a lot of planning that should take place upfront, so the first task is scheduling and setting up milestones for both the startup and the move. This is where using an online template for a monthly planner comes in handy; you can input your tasks from a “10,000-foot view” and refer to them on any internet-enabled device so you stay on track.
Home-based businesses are becoming more and more popular as technology advances, allowing entrepreneurs to do everything they need to work from home. However, you must ensure your home accommodates both working and living — otherwise, you won’t be able to position your business for long-term success while maintaining a high quality of life. Here is some advice presented by Red-hound.com on how to handle the process of launching a business and moving homes.
THE BUSINESS SIDE
Let’s start with some practical tips to consider as you prepare to get your home-based business off the ground:
Prepare a Business Plan
You won’t get very far with your business (or score funding from investors) without a detailed business plan. Business Link suggests developing a business plan that includes your mission statement, product/service descriptions, target audience, distribution strategies, marketing strategies, financial projections, and any other relevant information. This will serve as your business’s blueprint and guide for the next several years.
Determine What to Outsource
You will not want to attempt doing everything yourself. If you do, you’ll risk burnout and make it harder on yourself to achieve success. Consider what tasks and projects you thrive on the most, and find freelancers to handle the rest. For instance, you can find affordable, reliable web designers, mobile app developers, virtual assistants, and more via freelance job boards. And you can even compare rates, delivery times, and other factors when choosing between candidates.
Get Legal
There are several steps you’ll need to take to ensure that your home business is legally sound. This includes selecting a business structure, registering your business name, drawing up any necessary contracts, and obtaining any necessary permits or licenses, among other things. Take care of these tasks early in the process. You can even form an LLC online using a formation company, which can help take some of that responsibility off your shoulders.
Start Marketing
Your branding (e.g., name, logo design, colors, etc.) is what people will associate with your company. Start creating your branding elements as soon as you can, even if it’s before you finish your product development. Then, promote heavily via social media, email marketing, brochures, and other marketing channels.
THE MOVING SIDE
Now, let’s discuss a few quick tips for moving homes while you have all this going on:
Determine Your Needs when jointly Launch Your Startup
You want your work life and family life to flourish. Keep that in mind while you’re exploring potential homes in your area of interest. Make sure you have ample space for a home office that will allow you to work productively.
If you can’t find a home on the market that will meet your needs, consider building a custom home. This route typically requires a little more money upfront, but, as Upscale Living points out, it can prove a better long-term investment when you factor in lower costs of upkeep and resale value. Plus, you can design the home exactly as your family (and business) needs.
Work with a Real Estate Professional
The home buying process is not something you want to do on your own. Find a reputable real estate agent with experience in your desired location. Working with a local pro can significantly reduce your stress and enable you to quickly find a home that suits your needs and budget.
Make Moving Easy for Yourself when jointly Launch Your Startup
Start planning your move as soon as possible so that you don’t have to rush through the process. Hire professional movers to carry the loads for you — literally! You can even have them pack your belongings. When unpacking in your new home, start with the kitchen and bedrooms so that you can have access to the essentials while adjusting. And of course, begin setting up your new office so that you can keep your business moving forward! Yes, starting a business and moving homes is going to be challenging. But if you plan and prepare, as well as get the right help when you need it, you can avoid becoming overwhelmed and position your family for a better life. Consider the tips above, and remember that it will be worth all the time and energy you’re putting in now.