By Elena Stewart
If you’re interested in moving and launching a business at the same time, you need to prepare yourself for a lot of hard work. Moving while starting a business will require a lot of time and effort, but it can also transform your career for the better. Today, Succeeding in Small Business will take a closer look at how to tackle everything from buying a home to forming an LLC to marketing your new company!
Buying a new home
You don’t want to rent when you relocate; instead, you want to buy a new home so that you can put down roots in your new community as an entrepreneur. First, determine how much square footage you’ll need to live comfortably and have plenty of room to run your business. Then, Take Charge America notes that you’ll have to decide on a realistic budget based on your income and debts, get pre-approved for a mortgage, connect with a qualified Realtor, and schedule tours of properties listed for sale. Research up-to-date information about the housing market as you create your budget.
If you discover during this process that you don’t have the funds for the home you really want, or that the right house simply isn’t on the market yet, you can always choose to rent in your new desired location first. Check out apartment sizes, prices, and amenities that fit into your budget and plans. You may even be able to save some additional money for a down payment while you rent!
The moving process
Depending on where you’re moving, the house-hunting process can be quite competitive! But in your rush to put in an offer, American Family Insurance points out that you should not forget about taxes and closing costs, and you should still have an inspection conducted. You may also need to find a local storage unit to keep larger items while you move.
Forming an LLC
Perhaps you’re relocating a business that you launched in another state, or maybe you’re building an entirely new business from the ground up! Either way, you’ll need to register your company, since every state has its own unique filing process and requirements. With LLC status, for example, you’ll have limited liability to protect your personal financial assets, and you’ll also get certain tax perks. To save money and time throughout the filing process, use an online formation service rather than hiring a lawyer or filing on your own.
Designing your home office
Will you be working from home? You’ll definitely need a comfortable home office! Even if you plan to rent a brick-and-mortar space, it’s always a good idea to have a corner of your home where you can tackle paperwork and remote meetings. You’ll want to invest in a sizable desk, a sturdy chair, and some type of storage system, such as a filing cabinet or floating shelves. Keeping everything organized will make it easier to run your business.
Marketing your business with a website and business cards
Now that your company is up and running, it’s time to promote your business and start making sales! You’ll want to tailor your marketing efforts to drive the growth of your local customer base. You can start by designing your website with local search engine optimization in mind. Also, set up local online citations so that you’ll be included in business directories, noting your specific service areas, and trying to acquire backlinks from other businesses in your area when possible.
Next, you should supplement your digital marketing with some old-fashioned approaches, like business cards. These are great for expanding your customer base and providing a tactile reminder of the services you offer. If you aren’t sure where to start, look for sites that provide you with several free templates that you can customize.
Going back to school to improve business knowledge
Most small business owners know their craft better than anyone else, but they don’t always have experience in the business side of their endeavor. If that sounds like you, consider going back to school for a bachelor’s in business. Online programs make it easy to take classes despite your busy schedule, and you can focus on the specialty that you most need (and want) to learn. Check this out: you can focus on topics from accounting to marketing, and from business management to organizational psychology. Find what works best for you and go for it!
Make a plan and stay organized for success
Wherever you choose to land, be sure to select a community that’s especially welcoming for entrepreneurs. By doing so, you can make your dreams come true! With these tips, you’ll be able to buy a new home, establish an LLC, and start advertising your business locally.
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Elena Stewart is a certified life coach who specializes in the teachings of Brené Brown, Danielle LaPorte, and Marie Forleo. She successfully transitioned from the corporate world to running her own business, and she now helps others achieve their career goals and dreams.
