Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

Simple Ways to Be More Productive While Working from Home

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Working from home sounds ideal until distractions, interruptions, and blurred boundaries start to affect your focus. If you are adjusting to a home-based routine, the good news is that a few simple habits can help you feel more organized, more productive, and less stressed. Here are 6 practical ways to make working from home work for you.

Set Up a Dedicated Work Zone
Choose 1 spot in your home that is your work area, even if it is a small corner. A consistent workspace helps your brain shift into work mode faster. Keep it tidy and stocked with the basics you need each day, like a notebook, chargers, water, and a few snacks. The goal is fewer reasons to get up and lose focus.

Keep a Simple Daily Schedule
A routine creates momentum. Start and end your workday at consistent times and block your day into work segments. If you no longer have a commute, use that time for something that supports your energy, like a healthy breakfast, a short walk, or reviewing your top priorities for the day.

Get Ready Like You Are Leaving the House
You do not need formal business attire but changing out of sleepwear matters. It signals that your day has started and helps you stay in a productive mindset. If you have video calls, choose an outfit you feel confident in so you are not scrambling at the last minute.

Use the Right Tools to Stay Connected
Working from home does not mean working alone. Pick 1 or 2 communication tools you will use consistently for calls, video meetings, and quick updates. Keep your calendar current, confirm meetings in writing, and set reminders so tasks do not get lost in the shuffle.

Create Do Not Disturb Time
If you share your home with others, boundaries matter. Set clear hours for focused work, and communicate them. A closed door, headphones, or a simple sign can help. If silence is not realistic, consider soft background music or noise cancelling headphones to reduce distractions.

Take Breaks That Reset Your Brain
Nonstop work usually leads to less output, not more. Build short breaks into your day to stretch, step outside, and get fresh air. Even a quick reset can improve focus and reduce stress. A more balanced day supports better performance and better sleep.

Working from home can be a great fit when the right habits are in place. If you want help building a routine that supports your goals and your lifestyle, we’re happy to share what we have seen work best for our clients.

Why Home Offices and Flexible Spaces Top Buyer Wish Lists

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What started as a temporary solution during the pandemic has now become a permanent lifestyle for millions of people. Remote work, hybrid schedules, and flexible careers have transformed not just how we work, but how we live. Today’s homebuyers are looking for more than bedrooms and kitchens. They want functional spaces that support productivity, privacy, and comfort. A dedicated home office or flexible space is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity.

Why the Home Office Matters More Than Ever
The traditional spare bedroom with a desk in the corner is not enough for many buyers today. Home offices are expected to provide a true work environment. That means natural light, strong internet connectivity, and quiet areas away from household distractions. Buyers are paying close attention to floor plans that include built-in offices or dens, as well as properties with enough square footage to create a separate workspace. For families where more than one person works remotely, dual office setups are increasingly in demand.

Flexible Spaces and Multi-Use Rooms
Not every buyer wants or needs a single-purpose office. Many are asking for rooms that can adapt to different uses. A flexible space might serve as an office during the day, a guest room on weekends, or a homework area for kids in the evenings. Features such as sliding doors, built-in shelving, or multipurpose furniture allow one room to serve multiple functions. This versatility has become a selling point, especially in smaller homes where space must work harder.

Technology and Connectivity Expectations
Technology is another driving factor in today’s housing choices. Buyers expect reliable high-speed internet and strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home. Homes with pre-wired ethernet connections, soundproofing, and designated charging stations stand out in the market. Smart home features, from automated lighting to advanced HVAC systems, also appeal to remote workers who spend more hours at home each day.

Lifestyle and Well-Being Considerations
A home office is not just about work, it is about lifestyle. Buyers want spaces that promote balance and wellness. Large windows, views of the outdoors, and even access to patios or balconies can make a workday feel more enjoyable. Some buyers prioritize proximity to gyms, walking trails, or quiet neighborhoods to support a healthier work-life balance. The idea is to create a home that supports both productivity and relaxation.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, it is important to think about how a home will support your work needs today and in the future. Ask yourself whether the floor plan offers space for one or two offices, whether the internet infrastructure is reliable, and how easily a room could adapt as your lifestyle changes. For sellers, highlighting office-ready spaces and showcasing flexibility can attract more interest and potentially increase value.

Finding the Right Fit
As a real estate professional, I have seen the demand for home offices grow dramatically in recent years. Whether you want a dedicated office, a flexible multi-use room, or simply a home with the technology to support remote work, the key is to find a property that matches your lifestyle. Work from home is no longer temporary. For many families, it is forever. And the right home can make all the difference.

Functional Home Offices for the Modern Remote Worker

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As remote work becomes a standard part of life, the traditional home office is undergoing a major transformation. What was once a corner desk or spare room has now evolved into a personalized, stylish, and functional space. Homeowners are getting creative, designing offices that not only cater to their work needs but also reflect their unique personalities and styles.

Creative Home Office Transformations

Some of the most imaginative home offices come from thinking outside the box—literally. For instance:

  • Attic Retreats: Attics, often underutilized, are being converted into cozy workspaces. With sloped ceilings and skylights, these spaces offer a peaceful, secluded environment ideal for productivity.

  • Closet Offices: Known as “cloffices,” closets are being reimagined as compact workspaces. With a desk, shelves, and clever lighting, these small areas become efficient and stylish offices.

  • Nook Designs: Homeowners are maximizing every square foot by converting corners, hallways, or under-stair spaces into sleek workstations.

Features That Spark Creativity

Designing a home office goes beyond just picking a desk and chair. It’s about creating a space that inspires productivity and makes work enjoyable. Here are some popular trends:

  • Standing Desks: These ergonomic desks promote better posture and keep energy levels high throughout the day. Adjustable versions allow for flexibility between sitting and standing.

  • Vibrant Colors: Bold color schemes, like bright yellows or calming blues, set the mood for focus and creativity. Adding an accent wall or colorful decor pieces can transform the vibe of your workspace.

  • Personalized Decor: From family photos to motivational artwork, personal touches make the space uniquely yours. Incorporating elements that resonate with you can boost morale and creativity.

  • Functional Additions: Custom shelving, cable organizers, and storage solutions keep the space tidy and efficient. Meanwhile, adding plants or natural elements brings freshness and a calming atmosphere to the room.

Maximizing Space for Productivity

One of the challenges of designing a home office is maximizing space, especially in smaller homes. The solution lies in multipurpose furniture and smart layouts. For instance:

  • Floating Desks: Mounted directly to the wall, these desks save floor space while providing a modern aesthetic.

  • Foldable Furniture: Desks and chairs that fold away are perfect for dual-purpose rooms, allowing you to reclaim the space when the workday is over.

  • Room Dividers: For those working in shared spaces, dividers can create a sense of privacy and separation, even in open-plan areas.

Inspiration and Creativity

The beauty of these creative home offices is that they show what’s possible when you think beyond traditional designs. Whether you have a large room to dedicate or a small nook to work with, the right combination of functionality and style can turn any space into an inspiring work environment.

Highlighting imaginative designs not only sparks ideas but also demonstrates how anyone can create a workspace that reflects their personality, meets their professional needs, and enhances productivity.

The rise of remote work has changed the way we view our home environments. A thoughtfully designed home office isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. By infusing creativity into your workspace, you can create a setup that supports your career and complements your lifestyle.

 

Is It Time To Create A Home Office: What To Know

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Is It Time To Create A Home Office: What To KnowOffice work has changed significantly during the past few years. With many people working well from home, numerous employers are becoming open to the possibility of allowing their employees to work from home permanently. With many people looking for ways to be productive from home, it is critical to create an environment that is conducive to being productive. How can homeowners make this happen?

Make Small Changes First

It is difficult to make major changes in a small home or condo; however, there are still small changes that can be made. For example, many people use a drop-down shelf or a narrow table as a work from home desk. Then, with a task light and a monitor, it is easy to create a functional home office. It is even possible to repurpose a formal dining room table, by turning it into a home office.

Repurpose An Entire Room

Those who own larger single-family homes might be able to make bigger changes to their homes, repurposing an entire room and turning it into a home office. For example, it might be possible to turn the guest room into a home office, making it a guest room during the evening and a home office during the day. Then, homeowners might want to install a Murphy bed that can fold out and create a guest room during the evening.

Use The Attic Or Basement

It might be time to finish the attic or basement, turning that into a home office. These are usually large spaces that can be used for more than one purpose. For example, it might be possible to use this space as a home office for two people. Consider investing in great lighting to avoid creating a cave-like work environment. It is possible to turn these locations into fantastic home offices with the right tools.

Consider Building An Addition

Finally, some homeowners are also thinking about building a home office instead. It might be time to add an addition to a single-family home, particularly for those who are going to be working from home for the foreseeable future. There are plenty of remodeling projects that could create a functional, comfortable home office.

Does Your Home Have What Buyers Are Interested In?

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Does Your Home Have What Buyers Are Interested In?If you are looking to sell a home in the current market, then you know that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many people look at the world and this includes their home.

Therefore, buyers need to think about whether or not their homes have what buyers are looking for. While this is a hot market and sellers could quickly end up with multiple offers for their homes, they are more likely to get a higher offer if their home has one of the key features that buyers in today’s market will love.

A Home Office

Without a doubt, this is one of the most popular features today. With the pandemic changing the way people work, workers are spending more time at home than ever before. Everyone is looking for a way to be productive at home and this means having a home office. A home office is essential because it gives those working remotely with a place where they can seclude themselves in their own home and be productive. At the same time, if there is an emergency, they can still respond quickly. Buyers today are looking for a home office.

More Space To Accommodate

Lots of families are looking for ways to accommodate their loved ones and this means more space. For example, many schools are still operating virtually. This means that the kids are at home during the day and will need their space. In addition, elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable in today’s environment, so many families have welcomed their elderly family members as well. Homes with the space to accommodate these desires are going to be more popular.

Powerful Internet Access

While this is something that can be adjusted if necessary, powerful internet access is important. Think about everyone who is going to be putting a drain on the home’s internet connection. People are streaming TV more than ever. Kids need to be able to pay attention to their lectures. Those working from home are going to have video conferences. Having strong internet access is a must.

Sell A Home With These Features

Anyone who is looking to get the most for their home should keep these features in mind. They can drive up a home’s value in the current market.  

Top Tips For Having A Home That Is Also Your Office

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Top Tips For Having A Home That Is Also Your OfficeTelecommuting has significantly changed the housing market. More people than ever before are working from home. Younger people are especially likely to do this and become part of what is called the “gig” economy. Many are working as freelancers or starting online businesses.

Advantages Of Working From Home

There are many advantages to working at home. It is less stressful. There is no commute. This saves money and is better for the environment. There may be lower income taxes because currently, the IRS allows a tax deduction of the expense of a home office. 

Homeworkers find clients online. They also can work from anywhere that has an Internet connection. There may be an opportunity to have a working vacation and keep their online presence going. They can maintain business efforts, perhaps at a reduced level, when also taking some time to enjoy themselves.

Staging A Home With An Office

Staging a home for sale is a useful technique used by real estate agents and homeowners. Staging beautifies the home to make it ready for viewing. This may improve the sale price when selling a home.

Staging may also help sell the home quickly by making it attractive to more potential buyers. Staging includes cleaning the home to make it spotless and strategically decorating the rooms to make them look nice.

One way to increase the attractiveness of a home is to have a room that is set up as a home office. If possible, choose a room with a view. It should be bright and comfortable, to entice buyers who want to work from home.

Buying A Home With An Office

When looking at homes for sale consider buying one that has an extra room or space that can easily convert to a home office. Think about the home design if you will live and work there. The office room needs to be in a quiet part of the home that creates a working environment where there are fewer chances for disturbances.

It is important to be serious when working at home. It is best to have a routine that encourages proper work habits in the home office space. Also, be able to leave the home office at the end of the workday. Avoid the temptation to overwork and set time limits for working hours.

If you plan to have business guests or clients come to your home, you may need to get commercial insurance. Talk this over with your insurance agent.

Summary

A home with an office is highly desirable. Consider retrofitting your home with an office when staging it for sale. For buyers, think about the possibilities of having a room for a home office when viewing homes for sale.

If you are in the market for a new home or interested in listing your current property, be sure to contact your trusted real estate professional.

Home Office Ideas For Small Spaces

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Home Office Ideas For Small SpacesDo you think that you don’t have the space for a home office? Maybe you are under the impression that you need an extra bedroom or spare room for a workspace.

An entire room is not necessary for an office. All that it takes is a little bit of creativity to carve out an office space in any home. Here are some home office ideas for smaller areas.

Here are some smart home office ideas that prove you don’t need to have a lot of space to have a home office.

Office Nook  

If you have a small nook located near a window, close off the space with a curtain. This move will allow you to separate the home office area from the rest of the room. Use a subtle pattern on the curtain so that it blends in with the rest of the room. When not in use, you can just close the curtain.

For small spaces, simplicity is the key. So, add just the essentials to your little office nook. A small desk with some drawers for office supplies should suffice just fine.

Secret Under-The-Stairs Office

The space underneath a flight of stairs is valuable real estate that often goes unused. This area can be the ideal spot for a small home office. Just add a floating shelf and a cork board above the desk. A built-in cabinet can be used to add useful storage space.

Spare Closet Home Office

Do you have an extra closet or pantry that you are not using? If so, then you can make that space work for you. There are just a few things that you’ll need to do to turn any closet into an office space. First, take the doors off. This step will add more room. Next, paint the interior of the closet a light color to add brightness to the space. Add some storage shelves and a built-in desk, and you have with the perfect workspace.

Corner Office

Got a vacant corner in your home? Turn that space into a mini office. If you have a corner with a view, that is even better. You can purchase a corner desk pretty reasonably. Add a chair, and a few office accessories and you are good to go. To the make the most of the space, consider adding floating shelves to each side of the corner.

Implement these simple ideas to maximize your space and have an in-home office that you love!

If you have your heart set on a designated office space and you are in the market for a new home, make sure to tell your trusted real estate professional to add it to your must-have list.

 

 

Working From Home: 5 Best Tips To Make It Work

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Working From Home 5 Best Tips To Make It WorkCarving out space for a home office isn’t always easy, but if you have the option to work from home even part of the time, it’s essential to have a space that works for you.

Here are 5 great ways to meet those needs:

Adapt A Closet

A guest room closet with bi-fold doors can become a perfect workspace with the addition of a shelf at the proper height to hold a computer or calculator and proper task lighting. Hang a bulletin board or add open shelving on the back wall. Multiply the functionality with a small cabinet or a portable file rack. The advantage of going to work in a closet is that you can close it off completely without having to do a daily cleanup. 

Grab A Corner From Living Room or Bedroom

Tuck a table desk into a corner of the living room or bedroom, assuming that you can work during the day when others aren’t sleeping or actively “living” in the space. Small table desks serve a variety of purposes, from serving snacks to displaying artwork, and are perfectly adaptable as work space, with a minimum of effort. All you really need is a good lamp and a nearby electrical plug in order to create an office. 

Claim Space In A Wide Hallway

With a space as narrow as about 30 inches and minimal depth, it’s possible to set up a small tabletop and chair to serve your needs for making phone calls, organizing schedules or planning appointments. It may not be ideal, but if space is at a premium it can be functional for short bursts of work at home.

Look For Multi-Purpose Furniture

A home office can exist in a den or dining room that has either a credenza or a tall cabinet with doors. Think about your needs, and seek out furniture that will fill the bill. Traditional period “secretaries” with closed door storage and a fold-down desktop are perfect, but even ramshackle armoires can be repurposed as office cabinets. 

Look For Unused Space

If you have a mostly empty storage room, even if it’s located in the garage, clean it out and clean it up. Add proper lighting, and even a portable heater or air conditioner. Brighten the space with fresh paint and an area rug, find second-hand furniture at garage sales or estate sales, and get creative with accessories. 

Be Aware Of Your Needs

There are two primary requirements for a home workspace, no matter what kind of work you do: storage space for the tools, supplies, files and accessories that you need; and privacy. It’s nice to be able to close the door on your work and “go home,” so the more insulated your home office is from other family activities, the more efficient it will be. Even if space is minimal, it can work for you!

If you are looking for a new home and a home workspace is ideal, be sure to tell your real estate agent that this is on the priority list!