Step 3: Where will you do business?
Step three in starting a business in Atlanta is deciding where you will do business. Do you work from home on your computer? Do you meet clients or customers face to face? Do you need a place to keep supplies, equipment, and inventory? Let’s answer these questions so you can find your ideal business location.
Situation #1: I don’t think I need a separate location to do business
If you are opening a digital sales or consulting business, then you may be able to do the majority of your job from your home office. If you meet clients or customers in the field to deliver products or talk about projects, then you might need to join a co-working space so that you have a dedicated environment for those meetings. You want to avoid “places with Wifi” like Starbucks to meet clients as a long term solution.These places are great when you are just starting out, but long term you want a consistent location on your own terms. Is this your situation?
Situation #2: I might need a physical location for my business
Do you need a dedicated location to meet customers, but you do not need a storefront for sales? Maybe you need an office. An office might be useful for businesses that need space, have multiple employees, or have technical production needs. An office is also a great way to show customers that you are legitimate and professional.
Situation #3: I definitely need a storefront/office for my business
If you sell products or services to the public, then you might need a storefront. A storefront allows you to interact with your customers or clients on a daily basis. A storefront also requires a great deal of additional upkeep and organization. Your storefront is the face of your business, so it is extremely important to plan well if you intend to open your doors to the public.
Which situation best defines your business? Once you decide, you’ll need to find a location and get all the proper permits and meet zoning requirements. Later in Step 9, we will show you how to find property and obtain your permits. Don’t worry about signing a lease or buying property yet. The key in this step is to figure out what you need for your business. Do you still have questions? Comment below, send us an email, and let us know how you made your decision. We are here to help you in any way we can, that’s our mission.
Here’s some great information from the City of Atlanta’s Zoning Enforcement Division.
https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/city-planning/office-of-buildings/business-licenses-zoning-enforcement-division
You are eventually going to need a Zoning Verification Letter, which can be obtained here:
https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/city-planning/office-of-buildings/zoning/zoning-verification-letter
Jump back to Step 1: Write A Business Plan HERE
