I started out as DIYer. Then doing some favors for friends. And now I am being ask to do work for other people.
Now as my main business is winding down I would like doing more “handyman” work.
My largest paying project has been a basement and bath finish. But that stretched over a long time.
Most of what I have been doing is some repair/refurbishing work. Typically 1/2 to 1/2 week type of jobs.
The last job included painting 2 doors, reinstalling a sliding closet door that was removed for new carpet and reinstalling a 2nd that required cutting it down and replacing broken hangers, fixing 3 doors that where baddly installed and binding against the frame, and replacing a broken electrical receptacle and box.
Other project have been replacing vanity, replacing miss wired GFCI’s, and repair rotten window.
I want to start advertising for work, but looking how best to frame it.
In my mind handyman can mean two things. One is some that is handy (availble) and happens to have a hammer and screw driver, but not neccesarly handy with tools or knowledgable about what they are doing.
I see the results of those types of “handymem” work.
I am looking for a better work or phrase to describe what I want to do.
One thing that I was thinking about was “small projects done right”. But what is a small project.
While I could do a deck or bathroom remodel my skills are such that I would not do one and be competitive.
But something like upgrading a bath with new vanity, painting, and light fixture is the type of job that I can do, do well, and also be competitive.
I don’t know if the general public has the same concern for the work handyman as I do. I see local and national franchise that do use handyman in their name.
Replies
I say call yourself a handyman - you'll get calls to do everything from install a drip system in someone's potted plants to build custom cabinets, and plenty of small remodel projects too. I think the main thing is to advertise enough to where you can pick your projects, and turn down the ones you don't want.
Had a acquaintance that did a business called Carpenter on call, did alot of handyman stuff and alot of punch out for builders. Another source would be realtors, that could recommened you to new clients buying or customers trying to sell that need a fix here and there to market thier house.
"Another source would be realtors, that could recommened you to new clients buying or customers trying to sell that need a fix here and there to market thier house."I have been doing a couple of sales fix ups.But the problem is that they want it cheap and I am determine to do it right and end up not making much money.But with just a couple of projects like this I have learned alot on estimating.And on one job I had to patch the bottom couple of inches of hardboard "board and batten" where moisture got into the bottom edge. I spend way too much time trying to do it right and make as water resistant as I could. But after doing it I came up with a better way, both water resistant and faster. So I am learning.But I am guessing that is why I am trying to differeninate between what I want to do and "handyman work".Maybe I will still use Handyman, but have a tag line something like "Small projects done RIGHT, the FIRST TIME".
Edited 7/30/2005 10:56 pm ET by Bill Hartmann
Quality beyond your expectations
Realtors are a double-edged sword. I have given estimates to a few when they had a house in escrow and needed repairs made before closing. Never got a lick of work that way--they'll never pay a guy like me (or you, I suspect) to do work like that. However, they remember the nice proposals I give, and have referred me to a few clients who actually wanted nice work.
I'm not sure what a good business name would be. Part of me says steer clear of the word Handyman, but there's a franchise out there, Case Handyman Services, and apparently they are a hit.
Hey, maybe you could be Handy-Mann?!
Best advertising I have found is bulk-mail postcards. If you can put a couple thousand bucks into it you can get 10,000+ cards out there in desirable areas. Be very thoughtful about the picture you use for the front... people will call you for whatever is shown in that pic.
A friend of mine several years ago started his "handyman" business with the name Small Changes with a fairly fancy logo-he was always busy until his wifes work called them back to Mass.
I see no stigma attached to the term "Handyman." I don't think it's any different than the reputation already attached to other professions such as "contractor," or "auto mechanic." Most people are at first leery of most of these, and when they find an honest one who does good work, they will be very loyal, and recruit other good customers.
I'm proud that I can do a variety of jobs (covering most of the trades) very well. I educate myself on codes and current techniques, and would put my workmanshio up against that of any of the "licensed" or "professional" contractors. (I put the quotes around professional because I guess I am one, since I have my own business and get paid to do this stuff. Yet I have had no formal training or apprenticeship. I do read a lot, though!)
I started out as a DIY guy for my own houses when I was working as an engineer in the corporate world. Fell off the corporate ladder (actually, company broke the ladder) and was a stay at home dad. Started doing a few odd jobs for friends. Then got referrals, then more jobs. Had cards printed up and I'm in business. Also got liability insurance. Started off part time, cherry picking jobs.
Now the kid is in school, more time for work, more professionalism, making it "full time" job (with flexibility).
Took a 1" ad in the yellow pages for $36/month. Has paid for it self many times over.
When I started 6 years ago (part time) I remember looking in the phone book, and the Handyman heading didn't exist. Now there are 20+ listing under the heading, mostly franchises that just sub out to their stable of subcontractors. Prices around here range from about $50/hour to $89/hour, with some charging additional fees to show up or provide estimates.
As far as competition, yeah, it's out there. But so is the business. Anybody who has a house has a list of projects, and that encompasses a LOT of people. So I think there's enough business out there for all the players. The poor quality ones, or bad business ones, will eventually fade away. I had to call 5 handyman companies (for a job in our assiciation that I will not do, since I'm on the board) and only had 2 call back. One eventually followed up and got the job. Very professional and business like. So guess who I refer my calls to when I'm tied up on a project or out of town on vacation? The others won't be around in 5 years.
Looked into licensing requirements in Illinois. The only State mandated licenses (as far as I can tell) are for electricians, plumbers, and roofers. (Of course barbers and nail techs need licenses, but not handymen or general contractors.) Of couse you need an Assumed Business Name license if you don't use your name, but getting that is easy enough.
Just about each local jurisdiction has licensing, but all that is requred there is to show proof of insurance, pay the fee and get your license. (How that "regulates" the industry, I'll never figure out!)
Good luck and enjoy the variety!
Pete Duffy, Handyman
as a homeowner, I would expect a handyman to be the lifesaver of those odd jobs that bug you, but your hubby doesn't have time to do them( or you don't have one, or he doesn't do that type of work), and the "big" guys think are too small to do. For example, the electrician who really doesn't want to put in just one outlet, or do only the basement wiring(not the whole job). Or, to fix the dryer noise that you know is just the dollar bill that got stuck inside the vent and you can't figure out how to get that piece off to get at it. I would expect the handyman to be cheaper than the "brand name" companies, however, that's not to say you shouldn't charge what you're worth or what a job is worth. PS. doing simple things for the little old lady on a budget at cost and figuring how to write that time off would be a godsend for many!
PS. doing simple things for the little old lady on a budget at cost and figuring how to write that time off would be a godsend for many!
I love those people who tell me "Can't you give me a break? - I'm retired and on fixed income." I'm thinking Sure, why not. Might as well contribute a little something to someone else's retirement, since I have nothing to contribute toward mine!
PS. doing simple things for the little old lady on a budget at cost and figuring how to write that time off would be a godsend for many!
40% of my customers are seniors. All claim to be on a budget. Want to give me a clue as to which one you think I should take under my wing and work at their house for free? DanT
Nothing specific here, but I got a laugh out of this and want to share it.
I posted a question at hvac.com. I had a AC company install a new A/C unit for me...they didn't do a damn thing but asked me what size unit I wanted. A very prominent business around town, too. All they did was remove my old compresor and blower, and install new ones. I needed new ducts run for a recent add-on. They were "way too busy- you're a handyman- I'll give you a list of materials, do it yourself." Okay.
So I go and do it, with my limited knowledge and what research I had done. Thanks, Advanced Air.
Back to my question. After I'd run the new ducts, things were funny. Go post a question at hvac.com- and holy sh$#. The HVAC guys there ripped me to shreds. You can imagine. I had no defense, they wouldn't listen, as if they 'owned' my system.
This is what's funny- my initial posting I revealed I was a handyman- whoops!!!!
One guy who ripped me came back with this- I'm young so never heard it before. "Jerk-of-all-trades, master-of-none." With my work ethic and never-ending quest for knowledge, I just chuckled.
It made me realize, despite some of the hack-posers out there, that the legitimate handyman is always fighting an uphill battle for respect and charging what he/she is worth.
Insane.
One more thing- I have never personally met many HVAC guys without attitudes- leading me to believe they are the most conceited and full-of-sh$# guys in the construction industry. I know of some who are great- but all in all the majority of that industry needs a big kick in the tail.
Thanks, Jason Smith
I posted a question at hvac.com. I had a AC company install a new A/C unit for me...they didn't do a damn thing but asked me what size unit I wanted. A very prominent business around town, too. All they did was remove my old compresor and blower, and install new ones. I needed new ducts run for a recent add-on. They were "way too busy- you're a handyman- I'll give you a list of materials, do it yourself." Okay.
So I go and do it, with my limited knowledge and what research I had done. Thanks, Advanced Air.
Back to my question. After I'd run the new ducts, things were funny. Go post a question at hvac.com- and holy sh$#. The HVAC guys there ripped me to shreds. You can imagine. I had no defense, they wouldn't listen, as if they 'owned' my system.
This is what's funny- my initial posting I revealed I was a handyman- whoops!!!!
I saw that thread on hvac-talk.com. I think there was one guy out of the bunch that cut you any slack whatsoever. They do lump "handyman" and "DIY" together under one category, and the site is openly anti-DIY, so it could have been predicted. You'd have been better off leaving out any context, probably.
One guy who ripped me came back with this- I'm young so never heard it before. "Jerk-of-all-trades, master-of-none." With my work ethic and never-ending quest for knowledge, I just chuckled.
This is a bastardazization of the expression, "Jack of all trades, master of none." How young do you have to be to never have heard it??? :-)
well I'm 30, I've heard "jack-of-all" but not "jerk-of-all"
Or try, "We repair what your husband fixed."
There's a fella around here that calls his business "Hire a Hubby" and advertises as a handyman service. I met him about 5 years ago and have always seen him around ever since. He says business is great. I would've thought a name like that would seriously limit his market, but quite the contrary. Especially in this age of more and more divorces! ; )
I agree that the right advertising can make the business. Everything has a price. As long as they're willing to pay...
I think you let the customer define small project. "Small project's done right" That has a nice ring.
Quality, Craftsmanship, Detail
Hey Bill,
Anything small (2-16 hours) and requires more than the skill of one trade, is generally handyman stuff.
BTW, years ago, I hit a slow spot in the middle of the winter so I placed a small ad in one of those free neighborhood rags. Cost me 4 bucks for two lines.
"For all those jobs you can't find anyone to do, call Mark @ ................"
That one ad generated a boat load of little jobs that paid great. People lovfed that line about "those jobs".
I went with the phrase "Professional Handy-Man Services".
I can't say that it has been a tremondous success, but I don't think it hurt any.
Rich Beckman
Another day, another tool.
I would suggest that you advertise fairly vaguely as far as what you will or won't do, let them call and talk it over. "Quality Fixes for your problems" I tell my customers that I do what others won't, and it keeps me plenty busy. If you hit a job that you have trouble estimating, consider hourly rate as an alternative. Next thing you know you will be to busy and considering hiring a helper.
Dan
In my area most handymen list a few specialties in their ads. I assume they are pointing out what their strengths are.
We do handyman work. That is how we started and now do bath remodels and a few kitchens a year.
Our tag line is "Service you can trust". People like that a lot.
Our goal from the beginning was to do small jobs at a premium rate in a proffesional manner. We have newer trucks, professionally lettered and well equipped with some general parts on board. Our guys wear tee shirts with our name on them and blue pants. We simply try to look professional and do good work. Good luck. DanT
Bill,
At age 42 I am slowly semi-retiring from roofing work and stepping sideways BACK into the small carpentry jobs I started doing 20 years ago.
but I am avoiding the " handyman" tag with all due seriousness
Because I don't want calls from people with plumbing repairs, electrical repairs or who want their kitchen door painted
I haven't figured out Exactly how to phrase it either------- but since my Business is
Hazlett Roofing & Renovation Ltd.------- a lot of roofing customer will ask----what do you do besides roofing?
The short list is:
Aluminum siding repairs
Carpentry
Ceiling repairs
Chimney repairs
Door repair or replacement
Drywall repairs
Fascia Repairs
Flashing repair and replacement
Flooring repair and replacement
Garage Repairs
Gutters
Handrails
Locksets
Plaster repirs
Porch repairs
Roof repairs and replacement
Siding repairs
Skylights
Slate repairs
Soffit repairs
Stair Repairs
Structural repairs
Vents
Weather stripping
Window replacement
I also give 'em a little talk about how I am MUCH more interested in fixing OLD things than I am in building NEW things
I would rather spend 2 days tracking down ( or fabricating myself) just the right " impossible to find now-a -days" molding for their small repair------than building someone a new deck.
Probably, eventually, I will settle on something like " a specialist in old house repairs"
It also helps if you know ahead of time how to locate some materials that were once common in your area---but now thought of as "impossible " to find.
I have a customer that needed some redwood claps replaced here and there on her house. she had a couple guys tell her----" those are impossible to get now-a-days"
I told her----it might be impossible for THEM---but" I" know right where to get 'em.
Once I got 'em--- I showed 'em to her---mentioned how beautifull they were---pointed out how straight the grain was---how stable they would be---what a privilege it was to work with this material etc.
customers love that enthusiasm ( I think), if its real.---she referred me to her neighbor across the street---who then referred me to her father who owns a body shop.
this is all MUCH more fun than roofing( but not as stressfull or lucrative). I can't WAIT to get out of bed in the morning.
Best wishes, Stephen
I don't know where you live, but in a suburban population you can make a very good living doing what you list and never be out of work. It's mostly what I do now. That, and sub for GC's. If you're good and know how to repair...there's always work. People are crying for it.
" The short list is:..."
Would you please come live with us? We have a spare room and a nice barbecue.
I too have tried to avoid the phrase "handyman". Don't like the ring of it, and suspect that many folks will think of you when the have a sticky door, but not when the want their bathroom remodeled.
My business cards have a "Tracy Improvements" logo, and say at the bottom: "Quality Home Repairs and Improvements".
I don't mind doing handyman type stuff because you can leave a long trail of happy folks behind you who, after seeing pictures of some of the impressive remodels that you've done will call you and refer you for those as well.
Everyone that has a home needs something fixed. Just about everyone who has a home has a remodel project that they have no idea who to call for and what exactly their options are - you can help with both when you are doing the new caulk in the kitchen and installing shelves in their closets.
Julian Tracy
Hi Bill,
Call yourself a"Housewright", instead of a handyman.
It just sounds better.
I learned that one from Jerrald Hayes, and it landed me a great job.
Gonna get your license?
"Gonna get your license?Gonna get your license?"License, we don't need any stinkin license!None in the state of MO.Any licensing are local and I don't know of any for anything other than plumbing, electrical, and HVAC on this side of the state.
"Any licensing are local and I don't know of any for anything other than plumbing, electrical, and HVAC on this side of the state."
and there in lies the rub with "handyman work" ... for me. here In Pa ... same deal. No licensing ... aside from mechanicals .... electric ... plumbing ... some HVAC ... gasline work .. etc.
So ... what are most "handyman" calls ... they're calls from people trying to avoid the cost of a licensed pro! Hand a ceiling fan ... change a faucet ... etc. And there are tons of handymen ... everyday going out and breaking the law ... doing work they damn sure know requires a permit and license ... even the big name places.
years ago I looked into "The Handyman Connection" ... not a bad gig ... pay wasn't bad ... as long as U forgot plumbers and electricians were to be licensed in this state.
In my opinion ... to make any money in the handyman racket ... U have to be willing to skirt the laws ... and codes. Which ... as a businessman ... I don't have a real big problem with ... it's the whole ... "going to jail and losing everything" part I got a problem with!
But .. I run into the same thing with 90% of the kitchen and bath dealers I run into. Everyone wants me to work for them ... no one wants to pay the plumber or electrician. Me ... I'd rather not get fined to save a stranger some money ...
my unofficial logo ... "big or medium ... I do it most" ...
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
i've seen handyman co.'s that drive around with a fleet of box trucks, and advertise that they do additions, siding, roofing, new windows & doors.......
It would be nice if there was somewhat of a standard for what a "handyman business or service" offers. Additions in my opinion is not logically categorized under "handyman work"?
It would be nice if there was somewhat of a standard for what a "handyman business or service" offers. Additions in my opinion is not logically categorized under "handyman work"?
I agree that a standard is a good idea, but in most cases the standard is set by the local or state version of the building code. In my area, any job that will have a total price of more than $30k must be done by a general contractor. In addition, the code specifies other rules for when the licenses are required (foundations, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, some others).
I also agree that additions should not be considered as handyman work. I've been doing business as The "Yes Ma'am" Handyman for a few years now, and I am aware that just about ANY addition is greater than $30K, and even if it isn't, it will most likely meet the other licensing requirements.
Unless you're the lead dog, the view just never changes.
What kind is the range of work that you do.
What kind is the range of work that you do.
The smallest I'll do for a new customer isn't based on the size of the job. It's quite simply my stated minimum charge, which is $100. And for a hundred bucks, I'll do almost anything that takes a couple of hours or less.
For a regular customer, who has consistently treated me fairly, I stop by and do some little ten minute thing -- on a day when I'm in their neighborhood anyway.
On the other end of the scale, the biggest jobs I do are major bathroom re-do's. I don't do additions, because I work by myself, and that would require having the roof open for too long. I don't do kitchens for the same reason -- the HO would be bothered by how long it would take.
My time is filled about half with medium to large jobs (more than a full day), and about half with small jobs.
Unless you're the lead dog, the view just never changes.
Bill,
I've been doing business as a handyman for a few years now.
I honestly wish you the best in your new venture. But be aware that you are entering a business that has just about everyone as your competitor (including me, except I'm probably just a little too far away).
General contractors -- even the ones who don't want the small jobs -- have a habit of badmouthing us.
Laid-off factory workers will also be advertising as handymen, and many are hungry enough to beat your prices. Most of these will be running the business under the table, so their overhead is almost zero.
DIYers believe that they don't need us, and can do that job for a lot less anyway. And they'll tell their neighbors, friends and relatives that quite often.
The retired guy down the street, who's been hitting on that widow who is your potential customer, is competition.
And in some cases, even the potential customer will compete against you ("well I can get those materials cheaper than that, so don't include materials in your price")
But don't be discouraged by competition -- just be aware of it, and respect it accordingly.
As to how you should advertise....the thought of advertising directly to realtors is a good one. But don't just send stuff to an office -- address it specifically to each sales agent. When you see a few for sale signs in a neighborhood that is your "target market", call each of them. Explain who you are, and the kind of service you could be to them and their clients.
I've made good money from referrals that realtors gave, and I value them highly. (In fact, when a realtor calls to have work done on their own house, I usually give them a break, and I clearly explain why.)
You should also use your vehicle(s) as advertisements. Make sure they are clean, and properly maintained, even if they aren't spanking new. Be sure that the signage or lettering looks professional, and is easy to read. Don't be one of the contractors whose ladders or scrap fall off of the truck on the interstate, or the one who cuts other cars off. Be a courteous driver who stops even for jaywalkers -- it gives them a chance to see the lettering, and they will remember.
I don't use the yellow pages. It's amazingly expensive, and I'm not sure I see the value. I've thought about one of those ads that is on the cover of the phone book, but around here, you can't have one of those unless your also listed in the yellow pages.
I do use the local classifieds. I'm in every copy of every paper that is distributed locally.
I've also used local AM radio wil a bit of success. Lots of older folks still listen, and they are common customers of handymen.
And I've had mixed success with other addball stuff -- being listed as a "patron" in the local community theater handouts; paying to be included in the "header page" of the calendar that a local charity sells as a fundraiser.
But of course, the best advertising is a satisfied customer. They'll keep your business card on the fridge, and when a friend calls them, they'll spread the word for you. Hopefully, within a few years, you won't need any advertising at all. I'm not quite there yet -- only about 50 - 60% of my business comes from referrals. But its rising steadily if slowly.
Remember, a satisfied customer is worth a lot more than the little bit you made on that job. And a dissatisfied customer -- even one of them -- can be a huge liability.
Best wishes,
Dave Thompson -- The "Yes Ma'am" Handyman
Unless you're the lead dog, the view just never changes.
Bill, you started your post with the question of how to define "Handyman work". In California, any job valued over $500 requires a contractor's license, so your limitation is pretty clear. (Enforcement of course is unlikely unless you take a job by underbidding a hungry licensed contractor who subsequently turns you in.)
I call myself "Huntington Handyman" and my card lists my chief areas of interest; electrical, plumbing and carpentry repairs and remodeling. If my goal had been to become a GC, I probably would have called my business "Residential Repair & Remodel", but "handyman" describes what I do and people ask me to do everything from hanging pictures to hanging doors to gutting a room and starting over.
If you do good work and treat people fairly, you can be very busy with little advertising. It took me just 3 months to go from doing an occasional job to being constantly busy and booked out two weeks in advance at $45 per hour.
Forget advertising. My sources of new clients came first from referrals by friends and neighbors and from people whom I know from volunteering with Habitat for Humanity; later from clients who were pleased with my work.
After I joined a networking group (BNI, look on the web under Business Networking International for a local chapter) my business has taken off. This month I have gotten 4 good jobs from members of my group and 3 more from members of other chapters in the area. Through the network group I got to know four realtors who now use me to complete their punchlists either to make listings show better or to satisfy home inspectors' reports in order to close an escrow.
If you want to get realtors as clients, forget sending flyers that will just go into the trash. I think you have to meet them face-to-face so they will remember you. Start with the ones who farm your neighborhood, also call the big offices and ask for their biggest producers, then visit them at an open house where you can talk to them easily or call and invite them to lunch to solicit their advice on getting referrals with local realtors (an indirect approach is less threatening and people like to be asked for advice).
Good luck,
BruceT
if you do handyman work, determine what your "minimun service charge". Or you may find yourself not making the daily rate you expect.
you may find some customer resistance to paying your stated rate
Say----you determine that you want to charge $75 hour and people resist---thinking that's a lot of money/hour for a " handyman"
Simply institute a service call charge------say $65 service call and $45/hour with a 2 hour minimum.
EVERYONE is accustomed to paying a service call charge for appliance repair, cable TV guys, whatever-----thay won't bat an eye at paying your service call charge either.
Stephen
I do this on a part-time basis. "Honey-Do Home Maintenance-Small Jobs Around Your Home". I get calls telling me what they want done, and if it's too big I tell them it's out of my scope. Because it's just a nights & weekends gig, I don't get a lot of interesting stuff to do, but then I'm also not blowing my entire weekend. I've done a couple of bathroom overhauls (friends who don't mind that it takes more than a week) right on down to changing batteries in a smoke detector. I've found that "small jobs" defines itself, at least in my case.
You can always call yourself...
Bill Hartman
Unionville Woodwright..:>)
But here a handyman who is not a licensed contractor can only charge 500 bucks per a job or less.
Bill,
You're trying to go the way I've been fighting going for years.
It's like this: I have found if you start out with a client doing, say, a small plumbing repair...then that client will think of you everytime something with water in it goes blooey.
But not if they need the roof re-done.
Or the bathroom re-tiled.
Or new kitchen cabinets made and installed....
So I actively and constantly resist getting pigeonholed as a 'handyman'...even though I am perfectly happy to do handyman-type jobs for clients who have previously hired me to do larger remod projects.
My company deals mostly with people who own chalets and cottages. So our 'slogan' is: "Your Second Home is Our First Concern." That's deliberately vague, and stays away from classifying the level of work I do. So it enables me to decide 'who' I want to be when I see where any new potential client is headed.
But you don't want to take on the bigger jobs I need. So you can afford to take anything from cutting their grass to shoveling the snow off the roof to replacing a busted window pane to painting a shed to changing out a light fixture to hanging a new door to patching a hole in the bottom of a dishwasher....
Which, in my mind, is the definition of a Handyman. So, try this: "Bill Hartman. Always Available. Always Reliable. Always Professional. A Handyman You Can Trust."
But remember one thing: Once a Handyman, always a Handyman. If you wanna break out of that mold later and become known as a high-end remod guy, you're gonna have to move and start all over with new clients....
Dinosaur
A day may come when the courage of men fails,when we forsake our friends and break all bonds of fellowship...
But it is not this day.
hey Ron ...
did I tell ya my brother passed his Cali GC license test?
"B" ... I believe ... said he went for the big time ... everything but heavy duty construction ... roads and bridges and such.
U probably have a better idea of what that B License means than I do ...
Jeff Buck Construction
Artistry In Carpentry
Pittsburgh Pa
Congrat's to your brother!"B" classification in Calif. means you're a General Contractor - as opposed to a subcontractor, which requires a specialty, or "C" classification license. You're legal to build, repair, renovate or remodel residential and commercial buildings. You're licensed to do whatever sub trades are required, as long as there are at least two. In other words, you couldn't bid a drywall job, unless it included painting too (or unless you sub'ed it out to a licensed sub). You can bid framing and carpentry, tho', without any other sub-trades.(in reference to the original post) "B" classification is a good license for a handyman to have, because it allows you to bid over the $500 max allowed for non-lic. bids. for what its worth, the following is from the Calif. Contractor's Board website:(lic. classification B) General Building Contractor- is a contractor whose principal contracting business is in connection with any structure built, being built, or to be built, for the support, shelter, and enclosure of persons, animals, chattels, or movable property of any kind, requiring in its construction the use of at least two unrelated building trades or crafts, or to do or superintend the whole or any part thereof.This does not include anyone who merely furnishes materials or supplies without fabricating them into, or consuming them in the performance of the work of the general building contractor.A general building contractor may take a prime contract or a subcontract for a framing or carpentry project. However, a general building contractor shall not take a prime contract for any project involving trades other than framing or carpentry unless the prime contract requires at least two unrelated building trades or crafts other than framing or carpentry, or unless the general building contractor holds the appropriate specialty license or subcontracts with an appropriately licensed specialty contractor to perform the work. A general building contractor shall not take a subcontract involving trades other than framing or carpentry, unless the subcontract requires at least two unrelated trades or crafts other than framing or carpentry, or unless the general building contractor holds the required specialty license. The general building contractor may not count framing or carpentry in calculating the two unrelated trades necessary in order for the general building contractor to be able to take a prime contract or subcontract for a project involving other trades.No general building contractor shall contract for any project that includes the "C-16" Fire Protection classification as provided for in Section 7026.12 or the "C-57" Well Drilling classification as provided for in Section 13750.5 of the Water Code, unless the general building contractor holds the specialty license, or subcontracts with the appropriately licensed specialty contractor.
That means contstuction wise he can do anything legally from womb to tomb Buckism: Will show you the the way
Two things: 1. Go to Rental agencies and do repairs for them. it can expand really fast from there.
2. Check local regulations, CA had a $100 billing limit for handyman work when I left, over here in Hawaii it is $1000 including materials. Anything over these amounts requires a Contractor License number and is matched against your tax info for the year. So, I have to skate around with some creative billing lots of times. Most of my clients go along with it. Haven't advertised in 13 years, all word of mouth. Started out by following #1 above.
How am I gonna get that in there!
"...and also be competitive."
Bill, don't be competitive. Be lucrative.
How about this tagline:
Handyman Services Professionally Executed
One area of work everyone seems to have overlooked is the kind of carpentry being done on Trading Spaces and various other home decorating shows. Find a way to offer something like "bookshelves in a day" or "closet repairs" and see if it draws business. There are lots of younger people who watch those shows who don't think they can afford a carpenter for a day or two.
Watch a few of the episodes of things like Clean Sweep, Curb Appeal and Trading Spaces and see if you can advertise for people in the market for a plate rack, media center, or improved porch. Plan on educating the consumer (will they supply project plan or will you? No, there won't be a tent and equipment trailer like on tv and shop work will be done off-site...). Or hook up with an interior designer who's newer and wants some custom work.
I don't know if this type of work would be profitable, but I know if I found a carpenter I could get for a day or two, I'd be delighted. And I think this is a service that would get a lot of word-of-mouth advertising.
When customers start talking about what they've seen on HGTV, I start looking for an escape route. When some perky blond gushes that some job took three days and was done for $500, I start wondering how those guys doing the work got paid. - lol
I generally consider handyman stuff to be work that doesn't require a permit.
The problem with that it that it varies DRASTICALY from area to area.
that's what it is in my county- along with a $1000 limit on then entire price of the job.
IMO, the price cap is silly. Say a customer wants me to re-screen an entire pool cage, fix some broken window cranks, fix a leaky toilet, replace some fascia, and paint four doors and pressure wash their sidewalks and driveway. Nothing that requires a permit.
"Can you give me an estimate?" Yes I say, I'll give you an estimate for each job, but you have to pick out the ones you want me to do and keep the price under a thousand bucks. So then there's no gaurantee I'll get any of the work because they want it all done by one person. So I either don't get the job or I charge $1000 for everything and lose my shirt.
I'm going to call and get placed on the agenda for the building depts next monthly meeting. Something has to be done about this problem, especially since the cost of operating my business never gets cheaper, but they've had this cap in place for several years now. It's like there's a conspiracy driven by the self-interest of the board members to eliminate the handyman. But that's just in my county.
I'm going to have to get out of Florida.
That said, I enjoy my work and running my business but the prospects for my succeeding don't look good with this price cap. I don't want to be limited to picking up yard trash, nor will I resort to doing hack-jobs to keep my price down. I'm all about quality and following the rules, and I know several handymen who are charging several grand for remodels and what-not. How do they no get caught, and what would happen if I did? Should I follow their examples, or continue to operate within the rules???
Can you just get a contractor's license? Seems the obvious solution to me.
It's actually something I've looked into recently. I haven't done anything about it yet, the main reason is in FL the requirements are insane. May but insane, but difficult to meet relative to other states/jurisdictions.
The are different combinations of criteria the state of FL has to qualify. The one I'm am closet to goes like this-
-not less than two years experience as a skilled worker (YES!)
-not less than one year of credits for any accredited college-level courses (YES!). I possibly have more than two years, I'd have to check my transripts. I majored in Architectural Engineering at a public state university, but never graduated because of various reasons- all were my fault- partied alot, had social anxiety (scared to go to class and participate- couldn't work up the nerve to talk to my instructors when I didn't understand something. Nonetheless I think my GPA in the program was a 2.8)
-one year of experience as a foreman (NO!). I think not, anyway. I've worked as a laborer for various contractors (framing, electric, painting, and one GC in particular who did anything and everything) but never was in charge of anyone. My father-in-law happens to own a construction company, I never worked for him though, but he lives in Mississippi (where I was born and raised and worked most of my life before moving to FL) and I have been running my handyman business for over a year now- I'm the only employee- so I won't meet the foreman requirement.
Thanks for the advice though. I will be pursuing a contractor's license, but I think the efforts will be in vain.
Sounds like you qualify, to me. You sure you've never supervised anyone in your construction work, maybe a trainee or a helper? At any rate, one year of running your own business is definitely management experience, which is what it sounds like they're looking for. Unless someone is supervising you, if you are the responsible overseer on your jobs, then I would think your job description would qualify you as a foreman.I advertise for and do handyman work here in Southern California, and my general contractor's license is required for bidding work over $500 labor and materials.Around here, lots of "handyman" type guys bid work over $500 regularly, without a license. Some of then do "creative billing", meaning they bid the job, then write the bill as an hourly invoice. Lots of "handyman" types advertise with a license # that is invalid, expired, or just plain bogus! Lots of contractors I know (who are licensed) don't meet the state's alleged criteria (4 yrs. journeyman level experience = 8 yrs. total experience), but somehow they got a license (I know at least one who lied on the application). In most states the licensing board is a cash cow for the state, and anyone licensed is an easier target for legislation/taxation purposes, so they don't disqualify lightly. Meaning you oughtta be able to get the license, if you're persistent. Best wishes!
You may be right, Huck. Anyway, I am going to make an attempt- very soon. I've been very tempted to be sneaky, but I'm just not that type of person, though I know of plenty who are. There's no rampant policing of handymen around here, but all it takes is for something to go wrong with a job, or have an HO call the building dept to check on my license and insurance and disclose the details of the job and have the building dept. catch on. I don't know what would happen- maybe I would just get fined and told not to do it again. Maybe they would pull my handyman license. That's what puts food on my table, so I won't risk it!
Not quite ten years ago my father-in-law, who owns a lawn maintenance company here in FL, employed me. He got a big contract maintaining the local airport out here, and he had me coordinating work and there were also other employees that I was in charge of. But that was grounds maintenance and had nothing to do with construction. I suppose that may work, I don't know.
But thanks for your optimism- it sure helps me feel more confident about my decision!
Jason Smith, Sebring, FL
bill... don't you have a local weekly paper?
the more upscale, the better..
in the back they will have a services directory.... go there and read the ads..
figure out which one ( which ad ) appeals to you..
get a logo.... and a one column x 3" ad and run it every week... sign up for the year.. you'll get the best rate.... and you can change your ad if you want
get an answereing machine and return ALL phone calls.... qualify your leads over ther phone... it's amazing how one job leads to another..
keep your rates high.... and be ready to quote prices rather than hourly rates... or both..
you can work as much or as little as you want
with your gift of BS .. i know you will shortly be a huge success
the next thing you'll have to decide is wether you want employees or not..
<<<
While I could do a deck or bathroom remodel my skills are such that I would not do one and be competitive.
But something like upgrading a bath with new vanity, painting, and light fixture is the type of job that I can do, do well, and also be competitive.>>>
competitive assumes that the customer has something of equal value to compare you to..
maybe 20% of the time they might.... but 80% of the time they do not have a clue
nor should they... who are you "competing " against ... no one... or everyone.. ?
you have this idea in your head that the other people in the trades actually know what their work is worth... believe me.... after 30 years of doing this.... the other guys are more clueless that your customers
pricing to most people is a crapshoot.. or they price based on what they "think" the customer will pay... or what they "think" the other guys are charging
Edited 9/2/2005 6:24 pm ET by MikeSmith
"the other guys are more clueless that your customerspricing to most people is a crapshoot.. or they price based on what they "think" the customer will pay... or what they "think" the other guys are charging"That's exactly right. The only people who really know what to price are the specialists. But even they rely on the easier job profits balancing out the difficult job losses.We're all just making numbers up.Rich BeckmanAnother day, another tool.
Guys,
those last two posts are true examples of the gems that arrive here from the experienced.
To a faithful saying...Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
as Buddha said to the hotdog vendor .... "make me one with everything"
Did you ever see that episode on "Taxi" where Danny Devito's apartment got burned out, and the guy who did it (the stoner guy) - his wealthy father agreed to pay for the damage. So Danny Devito is trying to figure out how much to ask, not too much or he'd end up with nothing, but as much as he could reasonably expect the guy to pay without questioning the figure. As he's ruminating on the subject, he's marking off imaginary increments with his hands.Anyway, I sometimes figure bidding is kinda similar. An educated shot in the dark. At least on the stuff with unknowns, and doing remodel/repair/renovation, I run in to a lot of that!