Virtual business addresses aren’t just mail collection points. They give you a legitimate physical location to put on your business cards, email headers, and other promotional tools. You can register here, giving your small start-up a new location without physically relocating to that area. You can think of it as the perfect cost-effective stepping stone.
You get time to build your brand and work with new clients via this new prestigious address while still operating out of your hometown. The companies, investors, and suppliers don’t have to send correspondence to your residential address, and you get to preserve a work-life balance. If this venture proves to be worthwhile, you can then add additional virtual locations to your list or work on setting up a physical presence in that area.The best companies offering these virtual office spaces have options in towns and cities in every state in America. Therefore, you have a host of options when expanding your home business into another market. The question is, which direction should you take? Here are a few options to consider.
1) California
Let’s start with an obvious one. People have appreciated the romance of venturing out West since the days of the Gold Rush. There is still an allure here, especially with so many potential customers out there ready to do business with you. There is something for everyone out there, whether you want to set yourself up on the coast or nearer the desert. A virtual address here screams prestige, especially in the health, beauty, and entertainment industries.
However, the scenes of San Diego and the Bay Area could be better suited to your niche.2) Pacific Northwest
The West Coast isn’t just about the Californian shore. Once you venture north, past the redwoods, you enter a market to rewards greener values, free-spirited thinkers, and interesting tech. Seattle is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country and perfect for small companies looking to expand. If that goes well, you might also consider other Washington locations. The range of options for these reliable virtual addresses means you can tailor your choice based on the local economy and demographics. Or, if you’ve simply dreamt of running a home office in Portland, you can dive in there.
3) Florida
If you’re more interested in expanding further along the East Coast, perhaps from a more low-key base closer to the Appalachians or Mississippi, Florida immediately comes to mind. Florida is a daunting place for a physical relocation – even if there are great tax breaks – so a new virtual address could be a stepping stone in the right direction. There are lots of choices for locations out there. Miami is often cited as a top city for relocation these days because of its economy and international businesses. However, Tampa is also thriving as a city of choice for millennials and young families.
4) Eastern Seaboard
If going south feels too risky because you can’t see yourself relocating there, how about something up in the northeast? This region is full of incredible cities and established communities with their own distinct personalities. Spreading out into one of these urban markets from somewhere upstate New York, Ohio, or Pennsylvania makes a lot of sense. New York will always stand out from the crowd because of the different boroughs and the energy they bring. Or, perhaps you can increase brand recognition in Boston or Philadelphia. A virtual business address here lets you dip your toes in the water before taking any bigger leaps with your home business.
5) The Midwest
The instinct for start-up businesses in the Midwest is often to dream big out East, such as New York City. However, you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to grow a business in a thriving city in the area. Students with start-ups in Ohio college towns, for example, can progress in baby steps. Start in cities like Colombus, which is on the rise, and then consider other cities in neighboring states. Those further out in Iowa and Wisconsin can break away from rural life to somewhere more vibrant. Chicago is the crown jewel in the area by far because of its size, reputation, and economy. If you can get established here, it doesn’t take much to expand into Madison, Indianapolis, or anywhere you want in the Midwest.
6) Texas
Last, but not least, there is Texas. Anyone who wants to broaden their range into a southern territory or build a business in a bigger Texan market is spoiled for choice. The major cities in this state go through different phases of popularity and engagement. For a long time, Austin has been the place to invest and start a new business. It is a young college town with a good eye for tech and culture. However, Houston is hot on its heels with its own thriving tech and energy scenes. Anyone keen to make it in the state where everything is bigger can start here and maybe add to the list over time. We can’t rule out Dallas or San Antonio here either.
Making The Most Of Virtual Business Services In These Markets
Whichever location you choose within these markets, you need to be sure that you find the right company for your home office. This means signing up with someone who provides all the right services to make the venture worthwhile. In addition to a secure onsite location for mail collection, there should also be simple redirection and other mail-handling services. The best companies remain accessible and efficient by staying in touch via apps and online profiles. They will let you know what mail you have via images and notifications, and you can tell them what to do with it next.
So, take your time to think about which region works best for your business moving forward. Then you can start browsing cities and locations and pinpoint something perfect for your needs. Over time, you should see your brand thrive and be ready to either find a third location or make that physical move to the city.