I'll have to read Deborah's post to learn about this. I certainly respect her position on things. My take on the topic is that, while not always necessary, a home office is certainly nice to have. I especially wish that I had a door to shut.

— Laura

I respectfully disagree. I think having a separate "place" is essential to help keep your work life balance in check. Having everything on your kitchen table will just always keep you connected and never feel like you're done with work for the day. I enjoy the luxury of a separate finished room in my basement with a bathroom right next door. I have everything arranged and organized so I don't feel cluttered. In the evenings, I am upstairs with my family and don't even think about work all that much. If having a separate room isn't feasible, then I wouldn't rush right out to secure an office space somewhere. Use what you have and make it work.

— Tony

I think that, when you live in a major city like Vancouver, where a 2 bedroom condo goes for half a million dollars and a fixer-upper house can cost as much as a million, it isn't always possible to have a dedicated home office. I'm sure it's the case in other major cities. So I'd hate to think people are holding back on their consulting dreams, just because they don't have a spare room in the basement. I have a dedicated home office now, but, with the pending arrival of my next child, I may give it up this space some time next year. I survived for many years without a home office and I'm sure I could do it again.

— Andrea

Good Point Andrea! It is definitely a luxury.

— Tony Rose