When starting a home-based business, some people have the luxury of an unused room which they can convert into an office. This provides a private area away from the distractions of home and family, and keeps your computer and other office equipment out of your living space. However, if you don't have a spare room, and you lack the financial resources for renovations, don't despair. Read on to learn how you can create an efficient workspace in any home.

1.You don't have to give up your guest room to have an office where you can see clients, if you replace the bed with a pull-out couch or day bed.

2.If your house has a landing, there may be enough space to set up a work area there, allowing you to keep it out of your living area.

3.For the living room, bedroom, or family room, attractive furniture is now available to suit every dcor which allows you to put your entire desktop computer behind doors and out of sight when working hours are over for the day.

4.You may convert your dining room to an office by placing the table next to a wall and using it as a desk. The table can still seat up to three people when cleared, and can be moved out from the wall for a larger group.

5.Even if there is no space available to designate as your office, a laptop computer will allow you to work in any room. Keep your small office supplies in a briefcase or other portable unit that you can easily carry from room to room.

6.A filing cabinet or other storage unit on casters can be kept under the table or close at hand while you are working, and wheeled out of the way when you are finished.

7.A bookcase or shelves will provide plenty of storage, and baskets or other attractive containers can hold small office supplies and prevent your workspace from taking over your living area. A closed cabinet for larger office supplies is also a must.

8.When space is limited, a multifunction machine that serves as a printer, fax machine, scanner and copier, can be a great benefit.

9.A free-standing privacy screen can be used to reduce distractions and interruptions from other family members, particularly if you will be seeing clients in your "office."

10.For additional home office ideas along with inspiring color photographs, read "Activity Spaces: Inspiration & Information for the Do-It-Yourselfer" by Laura F. Gross.

When creating your home office, you will need to consider not only the space available but the nature of the work you will be doing. Not everyone needs a large tabletop where they can spread out papers, but if you do, that may determine where you can set up shop. You will likely require access to electrical outlets and telephone jacks, and proper lighting is essential for any type of work. If you will be spending considerable time on a computer, it is imperative that your set-up be ergonomically correct to avoid repetitive stress injury or other computer-related ailments.

This may be one of many challenges you will face as an entrepreneur, but with the above tips and a little creativity, you too can have a home office!

About the author:

Janet Barclay, Organized Assistant, offers a variety of services to support the home-based business owner. Visit www.organizedassistant.com for a free subscription to The Organized Assistant Resource, a monthly ezine dedicated to Maximizing Your Time and Space.