Many people choose entrepreneurship for the opportunity to live and go where and when they like. If this means owning homes in multiple states for you, you have your work cut out for you. However, if you take the time to plan your logistics well, you can enjoy multi-state living without experiencing a paper-thin bottom line.
 
Today, Daren Cullen shares a post that can help you make the most of two or more living arrangements.
 
A schedule is a must.
When you’re trying to run a business, your employees need to know where you are. For this reason, one of the first things you must do is establish a schedule of where you are, which is especially important if your homes are in different time zones.
 
Have a registered agent.
If your business is an LLC, you are likely your own registered agent. However, if you are not always in the same place, it can help to have a registered agent in each city. This is an individual who can participate in the decision-making process while you’re away. They’ll also be the one to get notified of any legal or tax action taken against you. Do your research before you appoint someone, as laws may be different from one home state to another.

Shop around for services.
While it might take some work off the cuff, you’ll also want to put some energy into shopping around for common services that will travel with you from state to state. This might include things like net-based television services or online counseling so that you do not have to pay different rates in different states.
 
Make big purchases that will move with you.
Some things that we think about being stationary, such as our security cameras, tools, and exercise equipment, may be better off purchased once and relocated as needed. Before you spend the money on health and safety products, read some reviews that were not written by the manufacturer or paid influencers. This way, you know that you’re getting a quality product that will last and can stand up to the demands of moving.
 
Common Costs You Might Run Into Owning Two Homes In Different Cities
While you may not incur all of the following costs, it’s good to know what you can expect for assorted expenses and states around the country.

• Storage. Denver has a lot of self-storage options that range in price from less than $100 to $200 or more per month.
• Electricity. Bend residents can expect to spend around $106 per month on electricity, which Energy Sage notes is 33% lower than the national average.
• Health insurance. If you purchase health insurance in Washington, you can spend upwards of $422 per month; the same “gold” plan may cost a single adult more than twice that if purchased in New York City.
• Housekeeping. If you have one home in Orlando and one in Seattle, you can expect housekeeping to cost between $14 and $20 per hour, respectively.
• Rideshare services. A homeowner without a vehicle in Omaha can expect to pay around $.96 per mile for an UberX.

There are many costs associated with owning a business and a home in multiple states. But, with a bit of planning, like choosing a registered agent, knowing the cost of storage and other expenses, and careful budgeting in the form of buying your healthcare in the cheapest state, you don’t have to worry about how your living arrangements will impact your business’s profits.
 
If you are thinking about relocating to Central Oregon, Daren Cullen wants to be your realtor. As a certified residential Specialist, Daren has the skills you need to help you find your new home, even if you’ll only be here part of the year.

Image via Pexels

Extroverts, rejoice! Summer is here, and it’s once again safe to gather with family and friends. But after nearly two years of spending time solo and working remotely, you may be realizing that your current space isn't exactly dinner party-ready. Here's how to choose a new home that's ideal for entertaining, presented below by Realtor Daren Cullen.

Renting vs. Buying
Is it better to buy or rent? It's the age-old question, and in this era of historically low mortgage rates, the answer is, buy if you can! Learn more about your mortgage options, and get pre-approved for a loan before you officially begin your home search. While conventional mortgage rates are outstanding right now, you may qualify for an FHA or VA loan with even more favorable terms. Make sure you utilize websites that can help you keep current and learn more about 15 year fixed mortgage rates today.

Open Concept Floor Plan
Imagine kids playing board games at the table, adults watching football in the family room, and a few chefs in the kitchen. With an open concept home, you can all be together while engaged in different activities. A spacious floor plan allows the inviting smells of the kitchen, the warmth of a fireplace, and the sounds of soft music to permeate your entire main level. Before you host your holiday gatherings, add some festive touches to the living areas, and have the fireplace cleaned and serviced.

Outdoor Living
Entertain guests year-round by choosing a home with indoor-outdoor flow. A large backyard with a deck is the perfect place to barbecue in the summer or sit around the fire pit on crisp fall evenings with a mug of hot cocoa or mulled wine. Add a hot tub, and your guests can even relax in comfort while it snows! Great outdoor space provides unlimited options for themed parties or larger gatherings.

A Gourmet Kitchen
They say the kitchen is the heart of the home. But as any host knows, it's also where all your loved ones seem to congregate during gatherings. If you host gatherings frequently, avoid a cramped or galley-style kitchen, which can cause traffic jams. Instead, choose a home with a spacious kitchen, even if it's a little out-of-date. You can always upgrade a few key appliances to stainless steel to provide a cohesive, modern look your guests love.

Bonus Space
Loft or basement, finished or unfinished — look for homes with some type of bonus space, and build the perfect party zone. The possibilities for a bonus room are endless: a pool table, air hockey, a wet bar, a cinema-quality home theater, an arcade, or even a mini-bowling alley. With an amazing bonus space, your home is sure to become the preferred hangout for kids, teens, and adults alike.

Ready to Make Your Move?
In this competitive real estate market, you need a local expert with the right experience to help you find the perfect home for entertaining. Contact Realtor Daren Cullen to help you start the journey to your dream home in Bend.

Image via Unsplash