Starting a business is an exciting adventure. Your paid off home might be just the right location with low overhead cost. Use your home as a business if it is zoned appropriately, is visible, accessible and comfortable to your clientele.
Zoning Laws
Property is zoned for commercial and residential uses. A residential home cannot be used as a business without a change in zoning ordinances. Some conditional use permits allow home businesses if certain criteria are met, including providing a minimum number of parking spaces or running a paper-only business that does not require regular interaction with the public. Confirm zoning boundaries at your local town or city clerk's office.
Codes
Building codes exist to promote and maintain safe living and working environments. Your house might require costly upgrades and improvements to comply with a business building codes rather than those of a single-family home.
Finances
When starting a business, it is a good idea to keep overhead costs, such as rent, low. Certainly using your house fits this category. Keep improvements at a minimum to avoid having to take out a mortgage on the property to get your business up and running.
References
Writer Bio
Jennifer Dermody started writing in 1992. She has been published in "Running Wild Magazine," "The Green Book" environmental bid journal and local publications in the areas that she has lived all over the world. She is currently a licensed Florida real estate agent. Dermody earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Regis College in 1993.