Tools and Supplies for the Home Office

Desk or Writing Table

A generous writing surface makes work easier. If you use a table, you'll need storage for supplies and files. You can make a functional desk with a sheet of plywood and two filing cabinets.

File Drawers

Either drawers in your desk, or a separate cabinet. Boxes the right size can work, too. Consider whether you need legal- or letter-sized drawers.

Telephone

Consider a wall-mounted model to save desk space. Post emergency numbers (fire, police, poison control) right by the phone. Do the same for every phone in the house.

In Box

For items you haven't looked at yet.

Out Box

For items to be mailed, or given to someone else.

To File Box

For items to be filed (not too much later, please).

Waste Basket / Recycling Box / Paper Shredder

A big wastebasket will work wonders for helping you stay organized!

Writing Utensils

• Pens, ballpoint, fountain or felt-tipped (various colors)
• Pencils and erasers
• Highlighters
• Thick marker for marking boxes
• Ruler
• Letter opener
• A container to hold the above, unless you'd rather keep them in your drawer.

Address book or card file (and extra cards)

Even if you keep addresses on your computer or portable electronic organizer, it's wise to keep hard copies of important contact information.

Calendar or Appointment Book

Paper or electronic. A large wall calendar works well for organizing a busy family.

Specialized Record-Keeping Books

Account books, check registers, etc. as needed

Stationery Supplies

• Business-sized stationery and envelopes
• Mailing envelopes of various sizes
• Postcards
• Notecards
• Sticky notes
• Return address labels
• File folders and labels

Stamps

A dispenser roll is handy.

Stapler

Also a staple remover, extra staples.

Labels

For files, shelves, doors and more.

Clock

A wall clock will save desk space.

Magnifying Glass

For that pesky fine print.

Correction Fluid

Even if you're computerized, there may be times you'll need it.

Tape

Scissors

Rubber Bands

Paper Clips and Binder Clips

Pencil Sharpener

Binders

Hole Punches

Three-hole and single-hole.

Shelves

For books and binders.

Have a ROUTINE for handling papers. Develop a routine for handling papers and stick to it. This is critical for effective paper management, in either a home or business office.

Nearly every piece of paper in your life can be managed by putting the paper, or the information on it, into one of seven places:

1. To Sort tray (Don't let it stay there too long!)
2. Wastebasket or recycling box
3. Calendar or appointment book
4. To Do list
5. Address / telephone file
6. Action file
7. Reference files

If you don't know you have it, or you can't find it, it is of NO value to you!

-- Article by Elisabeth Archambault, editor of Real-Estate-Agents.com

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