Tips for Setting up a Home Office on a Budget

Having a dedicated workspace is important to most freelance writers. Setting one up should not cost a fortune. You don't need to completely redecorate or invest in fancy furniture, and you don't need to hire a professional to do the job. Here are some simple and affordable do-it-yourself home office tips:

1) Make the most out of the space you have.

Many freelancers don't have an entire room to dedicate to the cause. If you have a guest room that is rarely used, or a bedroom for a child who is away at college, consider making part of this room your office. You can leave the bedroom set where it is, or move it to one side of the room. Sectioning off part of a living room or bedroom works, too. Lots of freelancers even take over a small section of the basement. Rearrange where necessary.

2) Save money by being creative.

If you can't afford a new desk or other new office furniture, get creative! I spent no money creating my office space. My desk is actually an old dresser. Turned on its side, it makes a great desk. I use the inside space for storing books. My filing cabinet was given to me a neighbor on his moving day. Before I got that, I used an old square plastic crate for my files. If you get creative, you can make just about anything work. My make-shift office is so comfortable that I've never bothered to redecorate even now that I can afford to.

3) Ask around for freebies or second-hand deals.

If you need a desk, a sturdy table works just as well. You can use a small conference room table your local business or school might be getting rid of. Often people who are moving are trying to get rid of tables and desks. Ask neighbors to keep you posted on any furniture they're trying to sell or give away. You'd be surprised how many people would rather give it away to you than have to pay the garbage service to haul it away for them.

4) Shop around for bargains.

If you have to make some investments, for a desk or other furniture, you can shop around to avoid paying retail prices. Flea markets and garage sales aren't your only options. Kmart, Target and Walmart all have basic furniture now, and it's cheap! It might not last as long, but it's worth more than you'll pay. If you have an Ikea store near you, try there. You pay less because you have to put everything together yourself. Save on delivery costs by taking it home with you. You can get discount office supplies at big stores like Office Max or Office Depot.

5) Personal touches help.

Your office doesn't have to be pretty, but a few personal touches here and there can help boost your mood. After all, you're probably going to spend a lot of time working in your office. Hang a decorative calendar on the wall, or invest in one of those funny or inspirations day-by-day desk calendars. Even just adding a desk photograph of your kids or framing and hanging pictures your kids have drawn on the walls can keep you inspired.