cThe growing trend in Australians working from home is contributing to an increasing demand for properties with home offices. However, First National Real Estate CEO, Mr Ray Ellis, says home owners need to think through the process before committing to a fully fitted out home office.
“Traditionally, house hunter lists used to include the “must haves” of off-street parking, ensuite bathrooms and mature gardens,” Mr Ellis said.
“But the home office is slowly making its way on to this list, as the incredible changes in, and growing reach of technology encourage more people seek to work from home, especially working parents and those living in regional and rural areas.
Mr Ellis said that as more Australian firms are also coming to value the flexibility and expanding talent pool of online workers, the home office continues to rise in popularity.
“The home office is playing a much larger role in people’s working lives and so it is important they take the time and effort to ensure it is as comfortable and conducive to productivity as possible, and also that it adds value to their property,” Mr Ellis said.
According to Mr Ellis, home office workers need to consider what facilities they require for their home office, which will depend on whether they operate their business from home, or actually work at home.
“Some people such as builders, will perform their work at a clients, while others such as freelance writers, will conduct it in their home office. Either way, the office still has a function to perform and there is a variety of tips and methods to keep in mind, using the ones that best suit the space, individual circumstances and personal preferences,” Mr Ellis said.
Tips include:
Choose comfortable, functional and appealing office furniture
Streamline cords by using surge protectors and power strips and use zip ties for loose wires to avoid a tangled, sloppy looking mess
Invest in wireless Internet services for a neater, cleaner look and feel as well as a more flexible layout
Let in as much natural light as possible to stay alert, provide good visibility and create a welcoming atmosphere
Select a quiet, dedicated location, away from activity, for improved concentration and focus
Set noise limits and establish rules with other household members
Add personal touches to create a more inviting space, such as adding splashes of color and plants
Introduce personalised items and pieces to maintain high levels of engagement and interest throughout the day
“The most important tip of all is to remember that in your home office, you are the boss of your own space as well as your business,” Mr Ellis said.
“The more comfortable and inviting you make this space, the more inclined you are to want to spend time there and ultimately become more productive.”
A word of caution though from Mr Ellis, who advises home owners to consult their local real estate agent before converting a bedroom for a permanent home office.
“In smaller homes, with only two or three bedrooms, the bedroom may prove more valuable than a home office,” Mr Ellis said.
“In some cases, a home office in addition to the three bedrooms may not necessarily add value to the overall property.
“Sometimes it may be a better option to retain the room as a bedroom, but create a virtual home office with removable furniture so if you ever sell, the new owners have the flexibility of choice as to how they will use the room to best suit their purposes and individual circumstances.”
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Issued by: First National Real Estate

For further information contact: Stewart Bunn, National Communications Manager, First National Real Estate, on 0413 624 317