srbobc, Author at How to Start a Handyman Business | Free Startup Guide

Should I Specialize in One Type of Work?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

After viewing the long list of projects above, you might be motivated to specialize in one particular type of work. I have been tempted to specialize because it is challenging to do so many different types of work. On some jobs I find myself learning as I go and having to excessively focus on avoiding mistakes or wasting materials. When…

What Jobs Are Handymen Being Asked To Do?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

Here is a partial list of the jobs I completed over a recent 4 month period. I’m sure that you will be asked to do the same types of work: Installed phone extension line Hauled old wood and irrigation pipe to the dump Repaired and replaced broken sprinkler heads Sealed cracks in brick walkway Bleached and stained deck Installed closet…

When Should I Rent Tools Instead of Buying Them?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

A Rent vs. Purchase Case Study: A pressure washer is readily available from an equipment rental yard. The first time I needed one, in order to save on the rental fee, I borrowed a pressure washer from another handyman. He instructed me in all the intricacies of getting it started. After pulling the cord about 20 times and fiddling with…

What Tools Do Handymen Need?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

You don’t need a long list of tools! To get my business off the ground I bought one of the 4-piece, 18 volt cordless tool sets. When combined with the small box of tools I already owned, I was in business! It was that easy. The tools you need will be dependent on the types of work you take on….

Does the Truck I Drive Really Matter?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

Yes! A handyman’s truck should tell the world that they are dealing with a reasonably priced professional. It should indicate to your customers that the owner is clean, organized, efficient, and serious about their work. Buy a good used truck or a basic new truck like I did. Don’t get anything too flashy because it will make you look too…

What About Preliminary Notices and Mechanics Liens?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

Here is a definition for you: A Preliminary Notice contains language which describes the details of the contract and who the interested parties are to the transaction. It also makes a statement to the property owner that a mechanics lien could be placed on the subject property, what the consequences of such a lien placement are, and what their remedies…

Should I Ask To Be Paid in Cash?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

No. And don’t offer a cash discount. Never tell a customer that you prefer to be paid in cash. Asking for cash is bad business and a dead give away that you are cheating on your taxes. If they pay you in cash, accept it!

Should I Accept Personal Checks?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

Yes! Most customers pay by check. However, when in doubt do what the corner merchant does to cover himself. Write the customer’s driver’s license number on the check to prove you checked their ID. In order for the police to help you collect on a bad check, you will need to be able to prove who it was that signed…

What About Billing Customers for Completed Work?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

If it brings you more business, just say “Yes.” This has come up in three different situations. When I’ve done commercial work, work for a property management company or while doing pest repairs for real estate agents. The problem with billing customers on account is the time delay in receiving payment. Commercial accounts often take up to 90 days to…

Will I Get More Business If I Accept Credit Cards?

Posted by srbobc

· April 3, 2012

I haven’t had a single customer ask if I accept credit cards. I don’t think they expect me to. But I do offer the option and I think it brings me more business. There are some compelling reasons to invest the money it takes to have a merchant account. People will often have you do more work if they know…

Should I Specialize in One Type of Work?

What Jobs Are Handymen Being Asked To Do?

When Should I Rent Tools Instead of Buying Them?

What Tools Do Handymen Need?

Does the Truck I Drive Really Matter?

What About Preliminary Notices and Mechanics Liens?

Should I Ask To Be Paid in Cash?

Should I Accept Personal Checks?

What About Billing Customers for Completed Work?

Will I Get More Business If I Accept Credit Cards?

How to Start a Handyman Business

Does a Handyman need to be licensed?

Should I charge by the hour or by the job?

Do I need Handyman Insurance?