I have mixed feelings about working with local clients. There are a few pluses...
With local clients, I don't have to always be virtual. Honestly, it is nice to get out and meet people face to face once in a while.
In some ways, local clients are easier to find. I can go to a local networking group or look up potential clients in the Yellow Pages.
A lot of home business owners aren't comfortable with the "virtual" concept, and prefer to work with someone they can meet with in person.
On the other hand, them not being comfortable with a virtual assistant can be a drawback.
They may have unrealistic expectations of how you work, and might even ask you to drop off a project in person, or come by and do some work in their office, instead of your own.
If you do accept local clients, make it clear to them how you work. If they want to meet with you, or want you to drop off some work in person, it's OK to add travel costs to their bill. In fact, that should even be part of the contract you have them sign, so they'll know that upfront - and that will hopefully deter them from even asking.
Most importantly, set guidelines that apply to all clients, whether they live 5 minutes away, or in Timbuktu.
Remind them that you are a Virtual Assistant, therefore you work virtually. Let them know that your work will be transmitted electronically, by courier, by fax or by mail so they don't abuse your locality.
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