If you own your own business, or just need to move out of the home office, renting office space can take your professionalism to the next level. But renting an office full-time can be very expensive, and requires a serious commitment in the form of a lease. So the most important question to consider before renting an office is: do I really need an office for 40 hours a week?

 

In the Internet age, where telecommuting and online collaboration have become commonplace, the answer is often no. An office might be something you only need a handful of hours a week, or perhaps you just need to use a conference room occasionally to meet with your team.

 

If this accurately describes your situation, then why bother with renting an office? There’s a far simpler and more cost-effective solution: a virtual office.

 

A virtual office isn’t like virtual reality – it’s real office space with a professional business address. The difference is, it’s kind of like a la carte office space; use it only as often as you need it.

 

There are dozens of virtual office buildings and office suites that offer monthly, weekly and even hourly office rentals, so you can rent out the office only as long as you need it. These offices usually come fully furnished, with high-speed Internet access, telephone lines and even break rooms for your convenience. And many virtual offices even have conference rooms available for use as well.

 

So why should you choose a virtual office over a full-time office rental?

 

No long-term commitment

 

Small businesses are often fluid and constantly changing, so why lock yourself into a long-term lease if you don’t have to? With a virtual office, you can rent as long as you need, even if you only need an office for a day. And if your needs change, there are long-term rentals available as well. It’s as flexible as you are.

 

No worries, just work

 

Furnishing an office requires time and expense. You’ve got to get a desk, chairs, phones, a printer, computers, etc. With a virtual office, it’s much simpler. Do you have a laptop? Great – sit down and get to work! It’s as easy as that. The office is furnished; the utilities are ready to go. All that’s missing is you.

 

Pick a virtual business address that fits your needs/style

 

Do you hate the hustle and bustle of the big city? Can’t stand the traffic into San Francisco? Don’t bother with it! There’s great virtual office space available everywhere, including the suburbs.

 

As you can see, there are many ways a virtual office can be a better investment than a full-time office. It’s versatile, easy and reasonably priced. For a fraction of the cost of a lease, you can start working in your own professional workspace today with a virtual office.