As the rise in entrepreneurship and freelancing has redefined the concept of work, many people are moving away from traditional offices. Working from home has been a popular choice, but the line between personal and professional often becomes blurred, leading to frustration and burnout.

Coworking spaces, where you share facilities on a neutral site with people from other companies, provide a cost-effective and flexible solution. Are coworking spaces the answer for you? Our real estate agents share seven things to consider when making your decision.

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1. Management
   While you may be your own boss when it comes to work, the management team calls the shots at a coworking space. In the best-case scenario, you and management will have a long and mutually beneficial relationship, so take the time to find a person or team with whom you're compatible.
   
   You may find it's better to go with a smaller, independent facility than with a larger company or chain. With the latter, the decision-maker is usually remote, leaving matters in the hands of a local manager who only has the power to enforce policies. Smaller companies often have on-site managers, which allows you to develop a closer relationship. This can pay dividends when maintenance is needed, or you want to request a little flexibility in your arrangement.
   
   
2. Access
   You should be able to use the space during your peak working hours. Keep in mind that access doesn't always correspond with facility features. For example, some places may offer 24/7 access, but front desk or cafeteria services are available only during conventional business hours.
   
   Security is another aspect of this factor. Unless you don't mind lugging your materials back and forth all the time, make sure it's safe to leave work and supplies in your space if you want to take a break or run out for lunch.
   
   
3. Reliable WiFi
   Let's face it. Poor WiFi service pretty much destroys the whole point of working remotely. Imagine creating a major presentation or making a big pitch via Zoom and having your WiFi service crash. Don't settle for management saying WiFi service is great. They're not going to tell you anything different. Test it out yourself, checking different parts of the building to ensure consistency.
   
   
4. Ambiance
   Everyone has their own particular work style. Do you prefer a serene atmosphere with live plants, elegant decor, and lots of natural light? Maybe you favor a minimalist aesthetic, outfitted with simple furniture and few distractions? Time is money, so you want a coworking space to maximize your productivity.
   
   Don't forget about things like room temperature and lighting. After being in the space a while, are you feeling too warm or too cold? Is the lighting too dim to see or so bright that it's annoying? Your overall target should be a level of comfort that allows you to work but doesn't lull you into laziness.
    
5. Design
   Design gets down to the nuts and bolts of your actual workspace. Many facilities offer one of three different types of desks:

• •  Hot desks are first-come-first-served, meaning you are left to grab whatever is open at a particular time. Much like airline seats, hot desks are sometimes oversold, so you're not necessarily guaranteed a spot.
    
    
  • Fixed desks are just like they sound. You reserve a specific desk to use exclusively, but "exclusive" applies to you, not the desk itself. The facility may rent out a desk to one person for mornings and another for afternoons.
    
    
  • Finally, cabins or suites are similar to conventional offices. Cabins are used only by you and anyone you designate. These are particularly appropriate for anyone who will be meeting clients or working with a team.

6. Amenities
   This is the real wild card in the equation. You'll find a seemingly endless range of options to cover everything you might want or need. The trick is to balance your wish list with your budget, so you don't end up losing money instead of making it.
   
   Amenities can be grouped into categories of work-related and luxury perks. Here are some features that can help improve productivity:  

• • Copy machines
  • Monitors
  • Printers
  • Conference rooms
  • Shredders
  • Office supplies
  • Mailing and shipping service
  • Screens and projectors
  • Computer mouse, power cords, and other peripherals 

Luxury perks may include:

• • Coffee bar
  • Cafeteria or kitchen
  • Gym
  • Kids' playroom
  • Outdoor patio
  • Lounges

7. Desirable Location
   Yes, the number one rule of real estate still applies here. No matter what other advantages a coworking space has, a lengthy and inconvenient commute or lack of available parking can counteract them. With public transit options becoming more plentiful, make sure stops are nearby. If you'll be meeting clients in the space, take into account whether the location is easily accessible for them as well.

Tired of that long, boring commute? Northern New England is the perfect setting for both work and play. Whether you're looking for a family home, office space, or vacation getaway, contact us at The Masiello Group to learn more.