I am a reporter for a nationally syndicated real estate section published weekly in newspapers across the country. I’m looking to interview real estate agents, brokers, lenders, attorneys, homeowners association leaders/members, and other housing experts for the following story:
THE BOSS ACROSS FROM THE BEDROOM: This story would examine the advantages and challenges of setting up a home-based office/business (not as a work-from-home employee but as a home-based business owner), including the tax and zoning ramifications, where to situate your office in your home, and other considerations. Below is a list of questions I’m seeking answers to for this story. Please e-mail me back your interest, availability and phone number. My deadline is noon central time, Wednesday, May 14.
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of running a business/office out of your home (not as a telecommuting employee but as a home-based business owner)?
2. What are some major factors that should be carefully considered before pursuing this arrangement?
3. What are the tax ramifications for setting up a home-based business/office? Can this arrangement raise or reduce your personal/business/property taxes? What are some key deductions/writeoffs that you can benefit from? Please give examples if possible.
4. What are the zoning and legal requirements/restrictions? Why do many municipalities prohibit/limit operating a home-based business? Is a license of some sort required?
5. What are the home/business insurance ramifications? Do many insurance companies deny coverage to homeowners who run a business out of their residences, for example?
6. What about a home-based business where clients come to visit your home office—how will you need to prepare for that, and do most municipalities allow this and to what extent?
7. What tips can you provide as to where one should locate a business/office in a home? What are the best room(s)/area(s) and why?
8. How can this decision affect the home’s resale value or impact your ability to sell your home in the future?
9. Who are the best candidates for this arrangement (e.g., people who can designate a private room free from distractions, etc.)?
10. Any other thoughts, tips, suggestions on this topic that I failed to ask about?
11. What is your full name, title, company, and location where you are based?
Keywords
size, cambria, family, serif, font, 0pt, home, business, office, arrangement, ramifications, estate, story, setting
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