Working from home is a privilege that allows us to have many freedoms that we don’t when tethered to the confines of a cubicle. But getting a home office set up can be an expensive endeavor if you don’t spend your money and time wisely. Today’s tips from Elbow Room can help you upgrade your space without sinking your entire paycheck into a home remodel.

Invest In a Monitor With a Built-in Speaker

There are many different pieces of office equipment that can serve a dual purpose. A monitor with built-in speakers is one of these. Having your speakers built into your desktop monitor comes with the added benefit of having less clutter on your desk, which means your office is that much easier to keep clean.

Have a Work-Only Space and Keep It Clean

If your desk is currently in the corner of a bedroom, it’s time to carve out a space dedicated to your 9-to-5 endeavors. Having a work-only area helps you separate your professional and personal lives, which can make you more efficient and present in both.

Ensure your home office is tidy. Prior to commencing your cleaning task, find out more by seeking online sources providing professional cleaning tips and comprehensive evaluations of cleaning supplies.

Invest In Quality Furniture

One of the biggest expenses that you will incur outfitting a home office is furniture. But don’t just choose pieces based on price or aesthetics alone. Look for furniture that is both comfortable and ergonomic. Your chair should be adjustable to reduce back pain, and your desk should be level to your elbows. The Creative Bloq blog offers tips on how to pick the perfect seat.

Move to a Window

Incorporating natural light into your workspace is not just about illumination; it's essential for maintaining a balanced circadian rhythm, which fuels your energy levels from morning until night. By positioning your work area near a source of natural light, like a window or a glass door, you can harness this energy. This strategic placement not only brightens your space but also supports your wellbeing, helping you to remain energized and focused throughout the day.

Document Major Upgrades

If you do find it necessary to update your home to accommodate your work, make sure that you take before and after pictures and hold onto receipts and other documentation. And choose your upgrades and additions wisely. Your realtor can help you make choices that improve your property’s value. Remember, a home office is a highly coveted amenity that will help your home sell faster and for more. While you may spend money here, you may see a high ROI.

Grab the Paint

Painting the walls (and even old furniture) is one of the quickest ways to spruce up an office space. If you have a flat-top desk, you might even consider painting part of it with chalk or dry erase paint so that you have a spot to take notes without wasting paper.

Keep a Cooler

Unless your office is directly next to the kitchen, you may find that it boosts your productivity to keep a small cooler next to your desk with bottles of water and light snacks. These can be life (and sanity) savers when you’re stuck on a call and need a quick drink.

Shop at Salvage Stores

Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and many other charities across the country often have a vast selection of office furniture and equipment at a huge discount. Don’t be shy about saving money by visiting your local salvage store.

Keep a Smart Home Device in the Office

Beacon Audio Video Systems suggests making sure that your office has a smart home device, such as an Amazon Alexa. This can help you check the weather, leave yourself voice memos, or even find synonyms for words when you’re stuck on an email, all without switching tabs and getting distracted. 

Look Into Standing Desks

Standing desks in home offices offer a myriad of health benefits, primarily by promoting better posture and reducing the risk of sedentary-related injuries. These innovative desks encourage movement and allow users to switch between sitting and standing positions, which can prevent the stiffness and back pain often associated with prolonged sitting. By facilitating a more dynamic work environment, standing desks also contribute to increased energy levels and improved focus. Additionally, the adjustable nature of these desks makes them ideal for creating an ergonomic workspace, further helping to prevent repetitive strain injuries and other work-related discomforts.

As a remote worker, you are now using your personal space to manage your professional days. There are plenty of improvements you can make, from adding a monitor with built-in speakers to choosing the right furniture, that won’t break the bank. And, if you choose your larger updates with care, you may just find that you make your money back with interest when it’s time to find a new place to call home.

Transform your backyard into a luxurious extension of your living space with Elbow Room's turn-key solutions for studios, offices, guest suites, and more. Start designing your dream space today and enjoy all-inclusive pricing, hassle-free permitting, and personalized options tailored to your needs at Elbow Room.