Dedicated Office Spaces: Beyond the Spare Room

The need for a home to be remote work ready is now a top non-negotiable. It’s about more than just a desk; it’s about maintaining work-life separation and professionalism for video calls. When getting ready to list, consider these options to maximize intrigue of a work-from-home professional. 

Maximizing Your Home’s Remote Work Ready Potential

• Finished Basements: These spaces are ideal as they often come with inherent soundproofing. Due to being underground and are naturally separated from the main living area a finished basement offers a true retreat. Unless you have some noisey feet running around above you!

• Spare Bedrooms/Guest Rooms: These rooms offer ultimate flexibility! A space-saving solution like a Murphy bed or sleeper sofa allows the room to be a dual threat. The room can be marketed as a guest room by night, productive office by day.

• Closet/Nook Conversions (The “Cl-Office”): For homes with limited space, a large walk-in closet or deep nook can be converted into a minimalist, hidden workspace. These spaces can come complete with shelves and task lighting.

• Pro Tip for Sellers: To attract work-from-home buyers, ensure your listing description highlights some of the follwowing:

  • built-in shelving

  • proper lighting

  • abundance of electrical outlets in the designated work area

  • a space that is already used as an office setting/built to be such

 Reliable Internet Connectivity: A Modern Utility

Strong Wi-Fi is no longer optional. It is as essential as water or electricity in this modern age. Buyers need confidence that their work (and streaming!) won’t be interrupted.

What Buyers are Searching For

• Fiber-Optic Access: If your neighborhood or service area (like parts of Martinsburg or Winchester) offers fiber or high-speed internet, make this a prominent feature in your listing. This is critical for activities that require high upload speeds and low latency. Video conferencing is one such activity that needs high upload speeds.

• Mesh Wi-Fi Systems: Larger or older homes have thick walls that can block Wi-Fi signal. A whole-home mesh Wi-Fi system can ensure complete, reliable coverage without dead spots. Google and Amazon have options for Mesh Systems. 

• Local Infrastructure: Consider checking and mentioning the available Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in your area. This information is invaluable to a buyer when evaluating their remote work setup.

 Soundproofing and Privacy: Silence is a Selling Point

Noise-canceling headphones are a temporary fix; an insulated, private room is a major asset. Remote professionals need quiet for concentration and professional privacy.

Key Features that Reduce Disturbance

• Solid Core Doors: Unlike cheaper hollow doors, a solid core door is a key indicator of a quiet space, significantly dampening sound transfer into the office.

• Insulation: Mention any special insulation used in the walls, High-density materials like rockwool or acoustic foam can greatly enhance sound separation.

• Window Quality: Double or triple-paned windows not only boost energy efficiency but also dramatically reduce exterior noise from traffic or neighbors.

• Strategic Location: An office located at the end of a hallway, on a separate floor, or above a garage provides natural separation and is a huge selling point for professional privacy.

 Multi-Functional Spaces: Designing for Flexibility

The modern buyer wants a home that adapts to their ever-changing life. Bonus rooms or lofts that can double as offices are especially appealing.

Versatile Space Conversion Ideas

• Garage Conversions: If local codes allow, a finished, insulated garage can become a stand-alone studio or office. This can offer the ultimate separation between home and work life.

• The “Shedquarters”: An insulated, electrified, and finished outdoor structure, often a converted shed, is a rising luxury feature that provides a dedicated, separate workspace in the backyard.

• Modular Design: Highlight features like modular shelving, pull-down desks, or cleverly designed cabinetry that allows a room to quickly transition from family use back to a work environment.

If you enjoyed learning about Is Your Home Remote Work Ready?, make sure to check out ERA Liberty’s other blog articles for more real estate, home help, and community happenings.

For all your home buying or selling needs, ERA Liberty Realty is here to help you find your next property in WV, MD, or VA.