by: Jeffery D. Zbar

Location is key when creating a home office. Consider these points:

Establish boundaries. This is a place of business, not a hobby shop. Decide where in the home a home office would be most functional, and set up rules about respecting its space.

Privacy and deductibility are important. A dedicated room, as opposed to a corner in the living room or bedroom, provides quiet in a busy household, and often meets IRS requirements for home office deductibility (as long as the office doesn’t serve another purpose after hours). And always consult a tax professional.

See the light. Make certain to have plenty of light, either from windows or lamps.

See the screen. Position the desk and computer terminal so that glare from windows or lamps don’t inhibit the view of the screen. Buy a screen shield to cut incessant glare.

Keep the temperature down. Plenty of ventilation and ceiling fans will help alleviate heat from computers, printers and long work days, and make for more comfortable working conditions.

Stay focused. If the office shares space in another room, position the desk toward a wall or behind a Japanese shoji screen so household activity or the television don’t distract attention.

Stay stimulated. If working in a dedicated home office, where other distractions will be minimized, position the desk to provide outside views to stimulate the mind.