Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/291744
26 ASCP Skin Deep May/June 2014 What to know before setting up a home-based practice Have you ever thought about setting up a treatment room in your home? If running a home-based esthetics practice is your dream, it's important to realize it's also a major project that will need careful planning. Working out of your own home has its advantages. There will be no rent to pay, no commute, the money you make is entirely your own, you set your own hours, and you can be your own boss. Federal tax deductions are available, too. But there can also be drawbacks. Let's take a look at the costs and complications involved in this type of esthetics practice. Can You Do It? Before considering anything else, you need to know whether running a home esthetics practice is legal where you live. First, check with your state board (contact details for all state boards can be found at www.ascpskincare.com/resources/legislative.php). If the state board gives you the go-ahead, the next step is to look at what your state and municipal zoning laws say about home-based businesses of any type. This may not be a simple "yes or no" situation. In my own city, a home-based business cannot have more than six customers visiting the business per day. There will almost certainly be rules about what sort of signage you can have (or whether you can have any at all). Other rules may cover business hours, parking, separate entrances, bathroom facilities, handicap accessibility, and more. by Claire Johnston WORKING FROM HOME