Is it permissible for me to shorten the prayer if my workplace is at a distance that allows for qasr, while I have not yet inhabited my new rented home, which is located in the work area, because it is still being prepared?

You are permitted to avail yourself of the concessions for travel as long as you have not settled in the place, and have not resided there for four days or more. The fact that you own a house in this country does not prevent you from taking advantage of the travel concessions.