Virginia Woolf was right: to get anything done, we all need a room of our own. Take your new business seriously by setting aside space that’s well-lighted, neat, comfortable and quiet.

If you’ll be working at home, you need a room or at least a designated area where you can work without disrupting or being disrupted by the rest of your household. Those whose home offices meet the IRS’s tests of exclusivity (the room is used only for business) and regularity (it’s used often, not just occasionally, to generate income for your trade or business) can often take a home-office deduction. Check with a tax professional to make sure your business qualifies.

Will clients come to your home? Place the office so customers can get there without traipsing through private areas. Your office needn’t be fancy to impress them, but it must be neat and professional-looking.

Check out your area’s zoning laws and restrictions too. You may need a variance to legally conduct business in your home, particularly if your home business generates traffic with incoming clients or frequent deliveries.

If you take the plunge into commercial space, location is a major consideration. Look for a location that’s not only affordable, but also convenient for customers. Easy parking is a must. High visibility with room for signage is also a must if you cater to walk-in clients. Talk to your local chamber of commerce and Small Business Development Center for advice on desirable locations.

Wherever your business is located, make sure it’s covered by insurance. For a home office, consider a rider to your homeowner’s policy. It will cover your equipment and protect you from liability in case a client is injured on your property. If that’s not available or you have an outside office, get a business owner’s policy.