Work From Home Survey: Best Place for a Home Office
Since COVID-19, remote work has become more popular than ever before. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the number of people making home improvements to create a comfortable and productive workspace. With many telecommuters now prioritizing a dedicated office space within their home, we conducted a survey of homeowners across the country to identify the best places for a home office.
This survey aims to explore how people are adapting their living spaces to accommodate remote work and to provide insights into the latest trends in home office design.
What’s the Ideal Location for a Home Office?
Our latest survey of home office renovation trends reveals that 75 percent of people prefer a home office that is separated from the rest of their living space by a door or is located on a different floor of the house.
Telecommuters are trying to maintain professionalism on Zoom calls, and a workday can become more difficult with typical household distractions. Home renovation trends reveal that the most sought-after home office designs make it possible to keep personal life separate from work life.
For half of all homeowners, a guest room is a top spot for a home office, and a basement office is the second most popular choice.
What’s the Best Place for a Home Office?
- Guest Room: 51%
- Basement: 17%
- Living Room: 10%
- Dining Room: 8%
- Attic: 7%
- Kitchen: 7%
More Men Prefer Basement Offices Than Women
When we look closer at the data, we see that there is a gender divide about the location of home offices. At a rate of two to one, men are more likely than women to set up their workspaces in the basement.
Ratio of Men to Women Who Prefer a Home Office in the Basement
- Male: 66%
- Female: 34%
Of the people who prefer basement offices, 66 percent are men. Men’s preference for a home office space in the basement is similar to location preferences for a man cave. Whether using the basement for work or personal time, utilizing the lower level of the home provides respite from other household activities.
Unlike a guest room, a basement office typically has a door and a flight of stairs separating it from the personal space of the house. This can mean the space provides a quieter and more focused workday, and soundproofing can even be added to the basement ceiling.
Plus, converting a basement doesn’t come with the same issues of using a small space for a dedicated work area. Using the lower level for a workspace means there’s room to add comfortable seating, a mini-fridge, filing cabinets, and a secondary standing desk.
Before Finishing Your Basement Home Office
Before transforming your basement into a home office, it’s essential to prioritize waterproofing. This step is crucial for creating a functional and comfortable workspace.
Basements, by their nature, are prone to dampness and moisture intrusion, which can lead to issues such as mold growth, mildew, and even structural damage over time. These problems not only pose a health risk but can also damage office equipment, furniture, and important documents. Waterproofing ensures a dry and healthy environment, free from moisture-related concerns. It also helps in maintaining a consistent temperature, which is vital for both comfort and the efficient operation of electronic equipment like computers and printers.
What would it take to update your basement and make it a safe and healthy home office area? Get help from a pro with a free inspection from your local basement waterproofing experts.
How Does Home Office Location Affect Real Estate Value?
When converting a spare room into a home office, there isn’t much structural change needed, and there’s no impact on the home value or square footage.
However, converting a basement into a home office can increase your home’s value while also improving the livability of your home. A single guest room won’t solve the needs of family members when parents and children are telecommuting.
Plus, a finished basement is a good option to add long-term value to your home. According to Motley Fool, a finished basement can increase your property’s value by 70 percent.
During the coronavirus pandemic, square footage has become one of the most sought-after home features. According to Realtor.com, “Folks are seeking enough space to accommodate being home around the clock, say real estate experts. An extra 300 square feet for a dedicated home office never sounded so good.”
Before Embarking on a Home Office Renovation Project
Home office renovations have become increasingly popular as more people work remotely. Renovating your home to create a comfortable and productive workspace can help increase productivity and improve your work-life balance.
However, several factors must be considered before embarking on a home office renovation project.
- Assess the structural integrity of your home before beginning any renovation work. Address any foundation or structural issues to ensure the safety and stability of your home.
- Check your home’s electrical and plumbing systems to ensure they are up to code and can handle the increased demand that a home office may require. Plan to place electrical outlets, internet connections, and other necessary infrastructure for your home office.
- Consider the design and layout of your home office to ensure it is conducive to productivity and comfort. This may include factors such as lighting, ventilation, and ergonomic furniture. Consider the location of your home office within your home and any privacy concerns that may arise.
- Create a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending. Factor in any potential increases in property taxes or insurance premiums that may result from a home renovation project.
A home office renovation can greatly improve your productivity and overall well-being. You can ensure a successful and rewarding renovation project by carefully considering these structural, infrastructure, design, and cost factors.