If you are the creative type who loves DIY projects, and are looking for a way to start your own business, we might have just the perfect solution for you.
Have you ever thought about starting a handyman business? A handyman business is a great way to turn your skills and creativity into money, while also having the chance to determine your working hours and be your own boss.
This business modal is a very popular one, as many people are too busy to do repairs, painting, and other works around their home.
“But, how can one start a handyman business?”– you may say. Well, we thought you’d never ask. In this article, you’ll learn the most important things to consider when starting your handyman business.
Tips on Starting a Handyman Business
Be aware of your skills
First and foremost – evaluate your skills. When you are aware of what jobs you can and cannot do, you will get a clearer vision of what services you can provide. Of course, you will learn more skills along the way, and will be able to offer new services, but at the beginning, stick to those that you know how to do best.
Now, what you also want to do, when choosing your services, is to check your town’s regulations on a handyman business. For example, you may need a special license for doing electrical works or plumbing.
Speaking of licenses, you probably don’t need one right from the start for providing small services such as painting, and small repairs around the house. However, in case want to develop/grow a successful and reputable business, you will need a license for providing certain services.
Who are your clients?
Starting any business is not an easy task, let alone a handyman business. However, it’s important that you set up boundaries and stick to them no matter what. Meaning, you will be tempted to accept some poorly paid projects just to get things started.
Of course, accepting few of these would not be such a bad thing. However, you don’t want to accept too many of these projects, because, later on, it will be hard to get paid the money you actually deserve. In addition, potential clients will soon find out that your projects are low-priced, which is not something you would want, IF you plan to have a successful business.
So, right from the start, decide who will be your target clients because that will be a foundation for growing your business. Although you shouldn’t expect to have big and interesting projects from the start. Oh, no. There will be months of hard work, numerous small projects, dedication, and sweat, before you get to the project you really want to do.
However, don’t think that you should never accept the small, “meaningless” work. Quite the opposite, you should accept them because they might lead to big and profitable projects. When clients are pleased with your work, they will gladly call you to do the important projects for them.
Make a business plan
With a business plan, you will know what to expect from your business, and will track all the expenses and projects more easily. In addition to a business plan, you will need to set the prices of your services. Of course, for that, you will have to know the cost of your competitor’s services. Here’s a helpful guide on setting up the price of your service, so you may want to take a look at it.
Don’t buy too much
The next thing you want to consider before starting a handyman business is the tools. What tools have you already bought? Â Which ones you have to buy? Just to point out, don’t buy all the tools you think you will need in the future, because you will spend all your money. Instead, be smart and buy the tools as required, according to your projects.
What about your work clothes? We suggest you invest in a quality and durable uniform, as you will wear it for the better part of the day. Also, you should buy a tool belt. Oh and don’t forget to buy work shoes, because the last thing you need is a pair of uncomfortable boots.
Advertising
The last thing is to advertise your services. At first, while your business is still new and you need to find clients and basically have no meaningful references, you can give your business cards to your friends, family, and leave them at local hardware stores. In addition, you can get an ad in the local paper, or post flyers at the local stores.
And there you have it – the things to consider when starting a handyman business. Hopefully, this article was helpful to you and you’ve got a better understanding of what it takes to start your own business. Good luck!
