Me, and everyone in my family owns investment properties. I used to take care of them by myself but now I've gotten too old and I need a handyman to take care of the inevitable maintenance that all properties eventually need. He is 100% on the money. It's not about how much you pay to get something done, it's about how much you lose if the rental stays on rented for a month or you lose a tenant. A person you can count on to take care of things when they need taking care of his gold in this business. P.S. What is "the other channel" you refer to?
Never underestimate how much people with means (upper middle class and above) value just 'having a guy'. Many of them have a financial advisor, lawyer, and even concierge doctors are becoming popular. Knowing that they have solid, reliable, trustworthy help with the stuff they don't know is very valuable. Even the brag factor of telling all their friends that they have 'a guy' is worth something.
@@acchaladka I had one situation where I regret not taking the opportunity to use it. I figured I would never have a chance like that again and forgot about it. I will try again though
Treat property managers good! I’m a landscaper and if you make a good impression on them they’ll call you for anything they need done. I’m the yard guy and I land jobs for rentals installing tile and building decks.
I agree, and if you don't charge bigger numbers clients won't trust the work. If you offer low prices they look at you like you're a drifter or a carny and they'll second guess what you're doing. Charging more shows you have confidence in your work.
I own a rental and I am not wealthy. I'm a working stiff 60 hrs a week. I am also handy and can do anything on that house from top to bottom. But when I have a turnaround in renters, I need it fixed now. I paid a carpet guy $150 (minimum charge) to kick a wrinkle out of an entry into a room. It was more important to get the house on the market than for me to save $150 (and miss out on work too!). Turn arounds have resulted in me hiring a lot of simple work just due to time.
This is what most cheapos don’t understand. That’s why a good property manager often gets the property to more profitability because they aren’t wasting 6 months on $1500 turn budget. When they could of had most of that time in rental income
Advertising your business gets you tire-kickers. Excellent work for a few key people gets you the money for your brains and not your labor. Word-of-mouth qualifies your customers. 5:32 is key. I been doing it since 1990.
I'm an older person. I was brought up with hard work principles at the core of my existence. I know that every time I learn something from someone else, I have received incredible value that can almost never be purchased. Whenever I have wanted to learn something new, something that took skill… I've always looked to the skilled person who I thought I could get along with and who had a good, solid, honest work ethic just like me. And in those cases I've been willing to work for free, or even pay that individual to learn the skill that he or she possesses. So what is a good "work ethic"? In my world, if you are supposed to be at a job site at 8 AM, and you show up at 8 AM… you are late. You have to be there 10 to 15 minutes early, and prepare yourself for the work and the mindset it takes to fully understand what you are about to walk into. A good work ethic means that you provide a greater value in terms of the clients perception than you are being financially rewarded for. A good work ethic means that you stay humble in your mood and your mindset so that new ideas, new information, and new skills can come into your purview and you can utilize them and be grateful for them. A good work ethic includes your ability to remain calm under pressure, and to value everybody else's time as much as you value your own. It means you need to be kind, and understanding. You need to listen and truly be interested in trying find a way to solve your clients (or your employees) problem so that both you, and the person who's problem you're trying to solve feel satisfied with the outcome. So, If there is a contractor out there who might be interested in taking me under their wing, I'd be willing to work for free just to gain their knowledge. However, I'm not going to work for a drunk, a person who is unclean or a person who doesn't take pride in their work AND who doesn't respect the person who is paying them to do that work. If you're a person that does not fit this description, and who might be interested in having me help them (truly help them) for a month or so, contact me. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
I just found your channel a few days ago. The big thing that stands out about you (in my opinion) is your intelligence, and your skill to take any job. Unfortunately most of us are not like that! I'm a 62yr old semi retired property maintenance tech, I'm able to keep busy doing trades I've become proficient at, ( painting, carpentry,plumbing) but when I watch your videos, it's clear your on another level. I also believe you make the money you claim. If a young kid was smart he'd beg you to let him work for just about nothing to learn the trade. Your a wealth of knowledge!
That is my take as well. I am 67 and have been doing this all my life, but I am not on this level. The thing I take from the handyman is that this is doable. Get up and go work everyday. I have learned to never say I can't do something. I have enough experience to figure it out, even if it isn't what I would prefer or what I feel particularly comfortable doing.
@@carpediem4413 an interesting truth is that I rarely, almost never run into that, and when I do, it is often because I just don't have the tools to do it.
Sweet... Sounds like another video is shortly on it's way. Few will watch a 20 minute video but we'll all watch two 10 minute ones! The suspense builds.
The handyman is spot-on. The value is in making the problem go away and he values his time. If you don't value your time no one else will and you will quickly be out of business!
The funny part is people can't believe how much you charge, but the management company is turning around, tacking on 20-40+%, and that is what the property owner actually pays. Why doesn't the property owner care....... because in the end, the tenant pays for everything.
What a huge benefit to hire 1 professional to come out and do what might be six or more specific hires. Get your plumbing, electrical, exterior drainage or irrigation done with one appointment; that's a huge benefit to the customer! I need that at my house...
Always is gonna be 2 types of ppl, hater and the ppl who come to your channel to hear an advice or find information. Please focus on us your real followers. We appreciate you!
I've tapped i to this as well. I work for a property management company. I take care of repairs for them so their clients are happy. Like in most areas, rentals frequently are inspected annually from the city. I do all the inspection repairs for this company. Most time money is not even discussed. They just want you to fix it. Most have deadlines so if you fix before that deadline so the city can reinspect your golden.
Love doing home repairs and watching your videos (among other things) and thing you are the most patient person when it comes to dealing with people that don't or won't accept how you handle YOUR business. I've been fortunate with my customers (even though I don't have but one management account) that they understand that I'm not cheap to hire but the job get done in a timely manner and it is done safe and correct. Now I'm retiring and will sell the house, furnishings, and all the tools as a turnkey deal. Going back to the mainland and will be traveling! I will continue watching you vids because you have great content.
Can someone make $150k doing a handyman business without killing themselves physically? I’m 56 years old, fit, and pretty good at fixing things and handyman work… I am about to leave my high paying corporate job because the stress is making me sick. Just hoping it can be done and decent money can be made doing handyman work which I am pretty good at - although I don’t think I am great enough to charge for tile work or some other jobs. But can do most things pretty well (installing lights, switches, fans, some plumbing, fixing things, diagnosing problems, etc). Just wondering how you take on jobs your not not 100% confident in?
I have a nice business going with about a dozen affluent suburban NJ clients. They give me plenty of referrals and their neighbors approach me when I’m working or at my truck. When jobs slow down I simply take a few gigs through Handy (I get a regular client about 80% of the time following a Handy gig). It seems more than anything else there is an absolute drought of skilled labor professionals out there. Be professional, prompt, attentive and honest and you can set any price you want for your work. I’m basically at a point right now where I’m raising my prices on every job and just waiting for someone to object. It’s a strange world out there.
Market place and Facebook town sites have gotten me a small base. In between handy man jobs, I found a specialty need that wasn’t filled, and that’s now up to 50% of my business after 6 months. Beware of the flipper. Constantly they disappear at days end, and you must spend days or weeks hunting these slimy greasy Weasley’s down for payment. Thanks for all your valuable pearls of wisdom Handyman. You need to give us your first name.😂
Thank you !!! I really needed this I was struggling with not having enough project planed in advanced and what you said just made me feel that there is light at the end of the tunnel . Thanks
I’ve worked in business aviation for 10+ years and have started to venture out on my own for side work, taking small lessons where they apply to a different (but similar) craft. I also started off under selling myself and the value customers got for their money was through the roof, since then I’ve gained customers that don’t care about the cost and want the results based off past experience with me and word of mouth. 🤑
You're not fixing their smoke alarm or garbage disposal. You are fixing their problem! Also never price yourself based on what you would pay to have something done. Price yourself on how much it costs to do the job (materials and labor) and add profit for yourself or the business on top of that. You will not last long doing work on materials and labor alone. Just because you think you are charging a lot for something, doesn't mean that your customers do.
Thank you, so much. It has been so difficult to get a foothold and to hear that someone I look at as a mentor, had difficult times and had to work. And the work you talk about, the how to's of actually doing the work don't even compare to what is like to dealing with customers that don't want to pay, and knowing when not to deal with those customers. It's a strange intuition to know when, I don't WANT to work for this person. And it's stranger in the end to reflect and say I knew I didn't want to work for this person lol
I can't even remember why I started watching you. Probably some DIY project I was working on. But I keep watching because I think you're an awesome businessMAN. You very much understand marketing, making money, and you explain your concepts very well. Much appreciated!
@@TheHandymanBusiness I need to. Yes! It will happen! Life gets in the way. It's a relaxing hobby. Comments here are know to the state of California to cause cancer.
I do the same thing. I take care of a bunch of rentals. My cheapest service charge is 75 for a light bulb. If i break out a drill or whatever. 125 minimum
I've built my business in a similar way, I opened my business after I was laid off in 2008. People in America are trained by our public education system to be employees, they can't understand what can be done as an entrepreneur. I make enough that me wife doesn't have to work and I only work an average of 25 hours a week.
Matt L… Your story sounds inspiring. I am about to leave my high paying corporate job because the stress is making me sick. Just hoping it can be done and decent money can be made doing handyman work which I am pretty good at - although I don’t think I am great enough to charge for tile work or some other jobs. But can do most things pretty well (installing lights, switches, fans, some plumbing, fixing things, diagnosing problems, etc). Just wondering how you take on jobs your not not 100% confident in?
I have had some bad experiences with property management companies. You videos have taught me why. The couple I have done rehabs for called me and basically set their price to what they are used to (illegal immigrant pricing) the rent on these are $1,000- $1200/month. I am relocating 200 miles away from my starting area and plan on calling LUXURY property management firms to offer my services to.
I do not call myself a handyman, I tell new customers I do home repair and improvements. I try to always underpromise, over deliver no matter what issue I am fixing or building. I do not do remoldel jobs anymore, too old, repairs, improvments, cabinet builds and repairs, furniture builds. For almost all repairs in and out one day. I learned not to waste the clients time. I have never advertised, just word of mouth...
A lot of costumers/people don't think about how much money you have in tools and equipment to do the jobs in a timely manner. Its about the years and money spent to do the job in the hour, not the charge per hour. When I show up to do a haul off in my $30,000 truck that I had to upgrade to to haul my $7,000 3,550lb when EMPTY hydraulic dump trailer that can hold three tons and tell them its about $400 per load they don't always think "hey it cost him a $40,000 investment just try and take jobs like this." Not to mention the like $10,000 you need in basic tools like hammers, saw horses, table/compound miter saw, skill saw, blower, auger, wheel barrow, shovels, tile saw, floor cutter, pressure washer etc. to be able to do just about everything. Or the various trailers you need to haul it all around. Better believe I bring it up to remind them every now and then.
You grew that much that fast because of tiktok.I have seen your videos on tiktok and automatically went on CZcams found you and now I follow you. Who ever has put you on tiktok has did you a huge favor
Anyone with business sense can be successful at nearly anything... Handyman's biggest asset isn't his fancy assortment of slip joint pliers, it's his ability to pick and choose jobs and set his rates, and to negotiate himself into a winning situation.
This is true. The perception of value is relative. I rent a house and if the tenant needs a dripping tap fixed, I will pay £150 for someone to go and change a washer, even though I could do it myself. Firstly it’s time related and secondly the cost of that work is deductible from the tax you pay on renting it out, so you’re paying near half the actual cost. Lastly it keeps the tenants happy.
i am a handy man myself 27 years old. i make a min of 75 an hour. what he is saying is very true. I work for many property managers. they dont care to much about the price they just want it done and done right. i re hung a falling play ground cover last month took 3 hrs for 1000 dollars. 100 in cost to me.
I do handyman stuff for my house, family members and neighbors. I usually don't even charge them cause I love doing the work. I wish I had more time to do stuff like that, but I have to work OT as a chemical technician to support me and my son. Love your videos, keep em coming.
just found your channel, alot of info thats so helpful to me, thanks for all your content. Im a relatively recent small contractor business owner. Ive worked in residential construction for 16+ yrs, but went out on my own after moving across the country last year. lots to learn. i seem to struggle the most with helping people through the design/ materials selection process. how do you navigate that?
The thing most people who have issues with your prices seem to not understand the customers also have to make this job worth your time to get out of bed, I don't get out of bed for 35 bucks, 150 bucks sure. As a working tradesman who has been a homeowner, renter, manager, and owner, your prices are reasonable.
Oh man especially now with fuel prices. I try to do everything myself. I have a ton of tools but I also know my limits. Some stuff I still call in the experts. It’s not easy to have a full time job and actually be an expert at everything else that comes up in life. But if you just learn the basics you’ll be ahead of most. I think there’s value in knowing your limitations as well. When you have people determined to fix absolutely everything themselves, that’s when things really get Fd up. I do electrical. I’ve put my own garbage disposal and dishwasher in. Tile etc.. But some plumbing applications especially under pressure, meh, yeah I’m gonna call somebody.
In Texas one does not need a license to do "handyman" work. A review of the required licensed trades only includes plumbing, HVAC and electrical. The "handyman" may be in violation when he fixes a toilet or changes a light switch but I think these types of enforcement are honored more in the breach thereof. I was unable to find any sort of licensing for any other trades associated with construction. So, anyone can declare himself to be a roofer or remodeler etc. As one might imagine Texas is the "wild west" when it comes to construction services.
I just started my hvac/r business about 6-8 months ago because I was breaking my back for nothing and destroying my body. I absolutely love working for myself!! But... winter is approaching and my calls are getting few and far between and I am definitely starting to worry. Thanks for the video :) I'm going to keep watching, I know you cant comment on every post etc. Any additional pointers on how I can get more calls now that winter is coming would be very much appreciated.
you need to find a service for the opposite weather. chimney cleaning, delivering firewood, hanging Christmas decorations or lights outside, gutter cleaning...think outside the box.
Okay, so I won't cuss 'cause you said not to, but holy *&%! ... in 8 min 41 sec you largely lay out a path for ANYONE with a bit of intelligence and more than a bit of grit & perseverance to earn a living. Good on you bro. Subscribed & looking forward to seeing what else you get into. Keep putting good out into the world and know that your sincerity and insight are appreciated.
What would you say is the best way to get into the type of work that you do with the only experience being working on my own home? Join a union apprenticeship, get a job as a helper in a trade, or college? Really interested and any advice and direction would be great.
Hello Handyman! You have to know how much you are helping me. I do almost the same you do. I'm argentinian, living in south Spain. Since I started watching you, I changed the way I make my quotations and charge for the work I do. Thank you very much!!!!
As a sole proprietor electrical contractor who does service installation and repair for residential and commercial, if I don’t take $1K home everyday then I’m not doing my job well. A steady flow of business requires a good website that is fortified with SEO and positive reviews on Google.
How do you make judgement calls on implementing varying levels of a solution without overcommunicating to a passive owner? I always worry they'll think I'm sneaking something in since they don't understand the context, but don't want to skimp either...
Instead of calling it Handyman, you are a Home maintenance problem solver. I have rental units in a different state then where I live. When someone has an issue, all I care about is getting someone out there quickly and to really diagnose and solve the problem. My tenant says they have water under the sink, I have no clue if it's the disposal or leaky faucet or plumbing. I need a "problem solver" that I trust to go out the and identify the real problem, and fix it. I can't assume it's the disposal, and have some rando go out there, see there is a p-trap leak and just replace the disposal because that is what I told them.
Bob Skrobuton I agree. To many just fix the what you tell them regardless if that’s the issue. I can’t do that. I’ll make the call and fix it and we can square up after if needed.
I can see how hard your trying to tell people and explain why you get paid what you get paid. I can see what a struggle it is. Trolls suck man had one bugging my wife the other day. Keep on keeping on brother I agree with your pricing.
When advertising to local property management companies would you suggest sending snail mail with a nice letter backing or stick to advertising electronically?
Hello Handyman, Question for you. I assume you send them an invoice when the job is complete correct? Do you list on that invoice, the specific item or job that you did? I'm finding that where I live, the property managers know what things "should cost" and try to chisel the price down due to listing it on the invoice. And I've had these people for a while also.
How do get the phone to ring? Website with SEO service and barely get calls. What Am I missing? Always complete a project as intended and beyond with great positive customer service. I'm in a good market with not that much competition in Marble Restoration since 2009.
Here's just one of my questions.... do you give written detailed " Estimates" of the work you are going to do and then another detailed "Invoice" of the work you did? I'm asking because I wonder is it good business to show all these details in the paperwork to your customers? Thanks for your advice.
I've been a handyman for more than 20 years. Love working for myself. Can you please tell us about the 2 microphones you use? I saw the small portable wireless was a Rode, but exactly what model and what's the model of the lav version. Likes, dislikes, etc. Thank you for all your work and videos!
The lav mic plugs into the small wireless rode. If I don't want to me fully miced up around customers I will just clip the little rode transmitter with out the lav on my collar. Its easy to clip on and off when I need it.
I agree with your business model. Can I ask how you transitioned from "low price High Value" customers to "Just make the problem go away, I'll pay" customers that you have now? Love the channels. Cheers from Tokyo! Stu
Good question. Being reliable for years and years has helped. Handymen are notoriously undependable workers. The main property management company that I do work for has had a dozen or more guys do work for them over they years. Most of them were real handymen. Just one step up from a bum that can fix some stuff. None of them had the capability to always without fail fix everything they were sent to do. They had a 50% call back on the repairs they were sent to do. The PM had me running around fixing the call back problems. I had one manager say he wished he could clone me. I might make a video on this topic there is a lot to discuss. Another factor is the economy changed. When I started it was 2008 I increased my price as my value was proven and the state of the economy went up.
@@TheHandymanBusiness Thanks for the reply, that's about what I'm doing, I have a small group of clients that do value my work, and I'm getting busier all the time. I'm betting a video on the subject would be well received. Cheers Stu
How do you get management companies to hire your LLC. I as thinking of calling different realtors and asking them to hire my company to contract there homeowners investments.
If you're just getting started... or thinking of targeting management companies, there are a couple of ways to go about it. First and probably the best option, if you have friends or family that use a property management company or have friends that work for a property management company contact them first... don't just robocall/ dial for dollars. Get an introduction. Or second, join your local Realtors Association. Go to a few meetings, there are very few contractors that goto regularly, and consistency is what gets you noticed. I did a mixture of both. I got in with the Association office. I became their goto handyman and so whenever a Realtor called looking for someone to fix something, I was at the top of their list. During the hot months I get two to three projects a week from them.
How did you get started finding rental properties and property management companies to work on and for? I’m looking to use HomeAdvisor to get started. I got laid off and I’m gonna make the leap to self employment! Thanks !
I think I know what or how you got started, or at least it may have been a part of it. You’ve talked about these rich people in the marina that you would talk to and I’m pretty sure that at least one of them has a ton of rental property and in cones you with your small sail boat, but you have that Entrepreneurial outlook on life and they said, “I’m (we’re) going to give you the opportunity of a lifetime” and after running a few #’s in your head, you said, “Let’s do it” and it went from there. Just a hunch and a personal comparison on my part. Given the time line, there were a lot of us guys that shit down about the time you got started and it all hinges on the economy and how much these owners and property managers are willing to pay. Just make sure you don’t end up broke if Biden gets elected!
I'm starting my business up right now, part time after work and on the weekends. I'm putting signs out in the wealthier neighborhoods and am thinking of going door to door introducing myself and trying to leave a business card. What are some other techniques, and are mine even good techniques to try and build a customer base?
Great thanks. I think i have that covered. I have no tattoos clean cut, and nice carhartt clothes. My wife was afraid the cleanliness may imply lack of work ethic but I disagree.
I got started with Homeadvisor. and now all I use is word of mouth. I think Handyman said once to sign up for just one year with them. or you can try to maybe make a deal with a lawn service guy to refer you to his customers if they need some home services.
Never Down... Personally, I would just go streight to the property maintenance companies. Offer ur services, leave cards & when they do Call u, send them a kickback thru the mail as a token of appreciation. That's money their wife don't know about & can use it anywhere without having to explain to anyone. I've always done it in cash, personally but mail might b easier for u at least. Try it.
As a 60 year women, I find it creepy in this day and age for men to come up to my door. Many of us have big guard dogs and are armed. In the wealthier areas you mention it is usually private and they have no solicitation rules , its private, many have security guards. Leaving business cards or door hangers does not impress many people these days. they see it as waste of paper. It might be better to talk to someone out mowing their grass, but that's weird too, as you are stopping me from finishing my chores. Rural areas vs city folks use different approaches i guess, it would be better to make friends or meet people and chat at the local ball park, or grocery store, or dog park, or church or local pub. With covid everything changed. Be neat and clean, wear a logo polo shirt, wear khaki pants instead of ripped up jeans...look professional while out and about your town. Just a view from a cranky old lady, who has a spouse that went into RV maintenance biz after retirement.
Handy man, I know this just adds more stress for you to do BUT on Facebook groups you are able to search comments and posts to get the answers you need. Do you or have you thought about reposting your videos on there and having discussion posts so then you can tell people to use the search bar and find the answers. Just a idea
Handyman … thinking of leaving my higher paying toxic work culture white collar job that has left me stressed and despondent. I’m pretty handy. How does one handle jobs you might not be excellent at (tile, etc). Do you just sub it out?
I think You forgot to add how much your wife allowed your job to grow..so you had time to do it.from my personal experience biggest mistake is to work as subcontractor and waste time.put time and efforts on the jobs so will look good and all the credit goes to gc....I have never advertised my service but every customer is delighted from quality of work I provide. that's how you will build your referalls.in your case 8 years it's short time and you are very lucky as you mentioned .the fear of "overcharging "projects will go away with time and resources (savings) .that's how you will make living .my best advice would be get rid of all debt you have so you can start fresh...it will only drag you down the road and your wife must have stable job If you bid for the job with knife on your neck just to get it .it will only extend your agony. ....
Me, and everyone in my family owns investment properties. I used to take care of them by myself but now I've gotten too old and I need a handyman to take care of the inevitable maintenance that all properties eventually need.
He is 100% on the money. It's not about how much you pay to get something done, it's about how much you lose if the rental stays on rented for a month or you lose a tenant. A person you can count on to take care of things when they need taking care of his gold in this business.
P.S. What is "the other channel" you refer to?
The other one is his TheHandyman
Here is a link to my main youtube channel. czcams.com/channels/tXVIqkc3iBk0bV5gvcNWgw.html
What state are your properties in?
⁰⁰
Never underestimate how much people with means (upper middle class and above) value just 'having a guy'. Many of them have a financial advisor, lawyer, and even concierge doctors are becoming popular. Knowing that they have solid, reliable, trustworthy help with the stuff they don't know is very valuable. Even the brag factor of telling all their friends that they have 'a guy' is worth something.
agree 100%
Your number 1 sales pitch: “I make your problems go away.” [combined with sweeping hand motion and sound effect]. Gonna try this on my next customer.
LOL. 👍🍺
Sterling....Beautiful Im trying that too. Lets give updates on how that worked.
@@handymanhogan6882 so, updates?
@@acchaladka I had one situation where I regret not taking the opportunity to use it. I figured I would never have a chance like that again and forgot about it. I will try again though
I own a cleaning business, and ive summed it up this way. Customers dont pay me by the hour, they pay me by the service.
Treat property managers good! I’m a landscaper and if you make a good impression on them they’ll call you for anything they need done. I’m the yard guy and I land jobs for rentals installing tile and building decks.
I agree, and if you don't charge bigger numbers clients won't trust the work. If you offer low prices they look at you like you're a drifter or a carny and they'll second guess what you're doing. Charging more shows you have confidence in your work.
I own a rental and I am not wealthy. I'm a working stiff 60 hrs a week. I am also handy and can do anything on that house from top to bottom. But when I have a turnaround in renters, I need it fixed now. I paid a carpet guy $150 (minimum charge) to kick a wrinkle out of an entry into a room. It was more important to get the house on the market than for me to save $150 (and miss out on work too!). Turn arounds have resulted in me hiring a lot of simple work just due to time.
This is what most cheapos don’t understand. That’s why a good property manager often gets the property to more profitability because they aren’t wasting 6 months on $1500 turn budget. When they could of had most of that time in rental income
@@user-fm4db6cq7g Man, you nailed the turn around cost.
Thanks man, saying the same thing you are
Advertising your business gets you tire-kickers. Excellent work for a few key people gets you the money for your brains and not your labor. Word-of-mouth qualifies your customers. 5:32 is key. I been doing it since 1990.
I'm an older person. I was brought up with hard work principles at the core of my existence. I know that every time I learn something from someone else, I have received incredible value that can almost never be purchased. Whenever I have wanted to learn something new, something that took skill… I've always looked to the skilled person who I thought I could get along with and who had a good, solid, honest work ethic just like me. And in those cases I've been willing to work for free, or even pay that individual to learn the skill that he or she possesses. So what is a good "work ethic"? In my world, if you are supposed to be at a job site at 8 AM, and you show up at 8 AM… you are late. You have to be there 10 to 15 minutes early, and prepare yourself for the work and the mindset it takes to fully understand what you are about to walk into. A good work ethic means that you provide a greater value in terms of the clients perception than you are being financially rewarded for. A good work ethic means that you stay humble in your mood and your mindset so that new ideas, new information, and new skills can come into your purview and you can utilize them and be grateful for them. A good work ethic includes your ability to remain calm under pressure, and to value everybody else's time as much as you value your own. It means you need to be kind, and understanding. You need to listen and truly be interested in trying find a way to solve your clients (or your employees) problem so that both you, and the person who's problem you're trying to solve feel satisfied with the outcome.
So,
If there is a contractor out there who might be interested in taking me under their wing, I'd be willing to work for free just to gain their knowledge. However, I'm not going to work for a drunk, a person who is unclean or a person who doesn't take pride in their work AND who doesn't respect the person who is paying them to do that work. If you're a person that does not fit this description, and who might be interested in having me help them (truly help them) for a month or so, contact me.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
I just found your channel a few days ago. The big thing that stands out about you (in my opinion) is your intelligence, and your skill to take any job. Unfortunately most of us are not like that! I'm a 62yr old semi retired property maintenance tech,
I'm able to keep busy doing trades I've become proficient at, ( painting, carpentry,plumbing) but when I watch your videos, it's clear your on another level.
I also believe you make the money you claim.
If a young kid was smart he'd beg you to let him work for just about nothing to learn the trade.
Your a wealth of knowledge!
That is my take as well. I am 67 and have been doing this all my life, but I am not on this level. The thing I take from the handyman is that this is doable. Get up and go work everyday. I have learned to never say I can't do something. I have enough experience to figure it out, even if it isn't what I would prefer or what I feel particularly comfortable doing.
@@mdtippett How do you handle jobs that you know you are not 100% proficient at (tile, etc)… ? Do you sub them out or do you just decline to do them?
@@carpediem4413 an interesting truth is that I rarely, almost never run into that, and when I do, it is often because I just don't have the tools to do it.
I wouldn't expect anyone coming to my house to charge me less than 125 bucks just for pulling in the driveway.
EXACTLY!
Sweet... Sounds like another video is shortly on it's way. Few will watch a 20 minute video but we'll all watch two 10 minute ones! The suspense builds.
The handyman is spot-on. The value is in making the problem go away and he values his time. If you don't value your time no one else will and you will quickly be out of business!
The funny part is people can't believe how much you charge, but the management company is turning around, tacking on 20-40+%, and that is what the property owner actually pays.
Why doesn't the property owner care....... because in the end, the tenant pays for everything.
“Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”
You are 100% correct! I do many rentals in South Florida. You would not believe how many text I get from owner
What a huge benefit to hire 1 professional to come out and do what might be six or more specific hires. Get your plumbing, electrical, exterior drainage or irrigation done with one appointment; that's a huge benefit to the customer! I need that at my house...
Always is gonna be 2 types of ppl, hater and the ppl who come to your channel to hear an advice or find information. Please focus on us your real followers. We appreciate you!
Thank you I need to focus on that.
I've tapped i to this as well. I work for a property management company. I take care of repairs for them so their clients are happy. Like in most areas, rentals frequently are inspected annually from the city. I do all the inspection repairs for this company. Most time money is not even discussed. They just want you to fix it. Most have deadlines so if you fix before that deadline so the city can reinspect your golden.
This guy probably lives in the best place in the whole universe for handymen to thrive
The area I live in has to be similar...high income suburb of a big city...I assume there is an area(s) like this around every big city.
Love doing home repairs and watching your videos (among other things) and thing you are the most patient person when it comes to dealing with people that don't or won't accept how you handle YOUR business. I've been fortunate with my customers (even though I don't have but one management account) that they understand that I'm not cheap to hire but the job get done in a timely manner and it is done safe and correct. Now I'm retiring and will sell the house, furnishings, and all the tools as a turnkey deal. Going back to the mainland and will be traveling! I will continue watching you vids because you have great content.
Can someone make $150k doing a handyman business without killing themselves physically? I’m 56 years old, fit, and pretty good at fixing things and handyman work… I am about to leave my high paying corporate job because the stress is making me sick. Just hoping it can be done and decent money can be made doing handyman work which I am pretty good at - although I don’t think I am great enough to charge for tile work or some other jobs. But can do most things pretty well (installing lights, switches, fans, some plumbing, fixing things, diagnosing problems, etc). Just wondering how you take on jobs your not not 100% confident in?
I have a nice business going with about a dozen affluent suburban NJ clients. They give me plenty of referrals and their neighbors approach me when I’m working or at my truck. When jobs slow down I simply take a few gigs through Handy (I get a regular client about 80% of the time following a Handy gig). It seems more than anything else there is an absolute drought of skilled labor professionals out there. Be professional, prompt, attentive and honest and you can set any price you want for your work. I’m basically at a point right now where I’m raising my prices on every job and just waiting for someone to object. It’s a strange world out there.
Im feeling that now Handy!
Market place and Facebook town sites have gotten me a small base. In between handy man jobs, I found a specialty need that wasn’t filled, and that’s now up to 50% of my business after 6 months. Beware of the flipper. Constantly they disappear at days end, and you must spend days or weeks hunting these slimy greasy Weasley’s down for payment.
Thanks for all your valuable pearls of wisdom Handyman.
You need to give us your first name.😂
Thank you !!! I really needed this I was struggling with not having enough project planed in advanced and what you said just made me feel that there is light at the end of the tunnel . Thanks
Love your insight. Keep up the videos. You’re a great inspiration to us all
I’ve worked in business aviation for 10+ years and have started to venture out on my own for side work, taking small lessons where they apply to a different (but similar) craft. I also started off under selling myself and the value customers got for their money was through the roof, since then I’ve gained customers that don’t care about the cost and want the results based off past experience with me and word of mouth. 🤑
Handyman thanks for all the good words of advice!
One of the best videos you ever made !! Everything so true !
You're not fixing their smoke alarm or garbage disposal. You are fixing their problem! Also never price yourself based on what you would pay to have something done. Price yourself on how much it costs to do the job (materials and labor) and add profit for yourself or the business on top of that. You will not last long doing work on materials and labor alone. Just because you think you are charging a lot for something, doesn't mean that your customers do.
Thank you, so much. It has been so difficult to get a foothold and to hear that someone I look at as a mentor, had difficult times and had to work. And the work you talk about, the how to's of actually doing the work don't even compare to what is like to dealing with customers that don't want to pay, and knowing when not to deal with those customers. It's a strange intuition to know when, I don't WANT to work for this person. And it's stranger in the end to reflect and say I knew I didn't want to work for this person lol
I can't even remember why I started watching you. Probably some DIY project I was working on. But I keep watching because I think you're an awesome businessMAN. You very much understand marketing, making money, and you explain your concepts very well. Much appreciated!
Thanks. You going to make anymore videos? They make me want to take up pipe smoking.
@@TheHandymanBusiness I need to. Yes! It will happen! Life gets in the way. It's a relaxing hobby. Comments here are know to the state of California to cause cancer.
I do the same thing. I take care of a bunch of rentals. My cheapest service charge is 75 for a light bulb. If i break out a drill or whatever. 125 minimum
This is a gift to us. May you be rewarded many times your efforts, thank you.
I've built my business in a similar way, I opened my business after I was laid off in 2008. People in America are trained by our public education system to be employees, they can't understand what can be done as an entrepreneur. I make enough that me wife doesn't have to work and I only work an average of 25 hours a week.
Matt L… Your story sounds inspiring. I am about to leave my high paying corporate job because the stress is making me sick. Just hoping it can be done and decent money can be made doing handyman work which I am pretty good at - although I don’t think I am great enough to charge for tile work or some other jobs. But can do most things pretty well (installing lights, switches, fans, some plumbing, fixing things, diagnosing problems, etc). Just wondering how you take on jobs your not not 100% confident in?
I have had some bad experiences with property management companies. You videos have taught me why. The couple I have done rehabs for called me and basically set their price to what they are used to (illegal immigrant pricing) the rent on these are $1,000- $1200/month. I am relocating 200 miles away from my starting area and plan on calling LUXURY property management firms to offer my services to.
How has it been so far?
I do not call myself a handyman, I tell new customers I do home repair and improvements. I try to always underpromise, over deliver no matter what issue I am fixing or building. I do not do remoldel jobs anymore, too old, repairs, improvments, cabinet builds and repairs, furniture builds. For almost all repairs in and out one day. I learned not to waste the clients time. I have never advertised, just word of mouth...
A lot of costumers/people don't think about how much money you have in tools and equipment to do the jobs in a timely manner. Its about the years and money spent to do the job in the hour, not the charge per hour. When I show up to do a haul off in my $30,000 truck that I had to upgrade to to haul my $7,000 3,550lb when EMPTY hydraulic dump trailer that can hold three tons and tell them its about $400 per load they don't always think "hey it cost him a $40,000 investment just try and take jobs like this."
Not to mention the like $10,000 you need in basic tools like hammers, saw horses, table/compound miter saw, skill saw, blower, auger, wheel barrow, shovels, tile saw, floor cutter, pressure washer etc. to be able to do just about everything. Or the various trailers you need to haul it all around.
Better believe I bring it up to remind them every now and then.
Like your videos.
Very true.
You grew that much that fast because of tiktok.I have seen your videos on tiktok and automatically went on CZcams found you and now I follow you. Who ever has put you on tiktok has did you a huge favor
Love your videos. Your content and advice are very transferrable to other types of industries as well not just handyman/remodeling. Keep it up!!
Anyone with business sense can be successful at nearly anything... Handyman's biggest asset isn't his fancy assortment of slip joint pliers, it's his ability to pick and choose jobs and set his rates, and to negotiate himself into a winning situation.
@@jdshear01 couldn't have said it better myself
This is true. The perception of value is relative. I rent a house and if the tenant needs a dripping tap fixed, I will pay £150 for someone to go and change a washer, even though I could do it myself. Firstly it’s time related and secondly the cost of that work is deductible from the tax you pay on renting it out, so you’re paying near half the actual cost. Lastly it keeps the tenants happy.
i am a handy man myself 27 years old. i make a min of 75 an hour. what he is saying is very true. I work for many property managers. they dont care to much about the price they just want it done and done right. i re hung a falling play ground cover last month took 3 hrs for 1000 dollars. 100 in cost to me.
He's "The FIXER" people!
Great video, cant wait for the next video about property management really intresting
I do handyman stuff for my house, family members and neighbors. I usually don't even charge them cause I love doing the work. I wish I had more time to do stuff like that, but I have to work OT as a chemical technician to support me and my son. Love your videos, keep em coming.
Great job thanks
great wisdom!
absolutely right. i too haven't advertise and find that those calls that i get all a waste of time, like you said tire kickers lol
great videos for the the common handyman
so emotional intelligence, building the knowledge, quick fixing, and under promise and over deliver - works
just found your channel, alot of info thats so helpful to me, thanks for all your content. Im a relatively recent small contractor business owner. Ive worked in residential construction for 16+ yrs, but went out on my own after moving across the country last year. lots to learn. i seem to struggle the most with helping people through the design/ materials selection process. how do you navigate that?
and the super secret cow 3rd channel!
keep up the great videos. Number one Contractor business channel in the solar system
SPOT ON!!
Great video
There investing in your knowledge. Like all trades .
The thing most people who have issues with your prices seem to not understand the customers also have to make this job worth your time to get out of bed, I don't get out of bed for 35 bucks, 150 bucks sure. As a working tradesman who has been a homeowner, renter, manager, and owner, your prices are reasonable.
Thanks. 🍺
Oh man especially now with fuel prices. I try to do everything myself. I have a ton of tools but I also know my limits. Some stuff I still call in the experts. It’s not easy to have a full time job and actually be an expert at everything else that comes up in life. But if you just learn the basics you’ll be ahead of most. I think there’s value in knowing your limitations as well. When you have people determined to fix absolutely everything themselves, that’s when things really get Fd up. I do electrical. I’ve put my own garbage disposal and dishwasher in. Tile etc.. But some plumbing applications especially under pressure, meh, yeah I’m gonna call somebody.
In Texas one does not need a license to do "handyman" work. A review of the required licensed trades only includes plumbing, HVAC and electrical. The "handyman" may be in violation when he fixes a toilet or changes a light switch but I think these types of enforcement are honored more in the breach thereof. I was unable to find any sort of licensing for any other trades associated with construction. So, anyone can declare himself to be a roofer or remodeler etc. As one might imagine Texas is the "wild west" when it comes to construction services.
This is next level thinking. You can instal a smoke detector or solve a problem. One of those is much more valuable than the other.
I just started my hvac/r business about 6-8 months ago because I was breaking my back for nothing and destroying my body. I absolutely love working for myself!! But... winter is approaching and my calls are getting few and far between and I am definitely starting to worry. Thanks for the video :) I'm going to keep watching, I know you cant comment on every post etc. Any additional pointers on how I can get more calls now that winter is coming would be very much appreciated.
you need to find a service for the opposite weather. chimney cleaning, delivering firewood, hanging Christmas decorations or lights outside, gutter cleaning...think outside the box.
Okay, so I won't cuss 'cause you said not to, but holy *&%! ... in 8 min 41 sec you largely lay out a path for ANYONE with a bit of intelligence and more than a bit of grit & perseverance to earn a living. Good on you bro. Subscribed & looking forward to seeing what else you get into. Keep putting good out into the world and know that your sincerity and insight are appreciated.
What would you say is the best way to get into the type of work that you do with the only experience being working on my own home? Join a union apprenticeship, get a job as a helper in a trade, or college? Really interested and any advice and direction would be great.
Hello Handyman! You have to know how much you are helping me. I do almost the same you do. I'm argentinian, living in south Spain. Since I started watching you, I changed the way I make my quotations and charge for the work I do. Thank you very much!!!!
Glad to help
Known as " The Fixer. "' like in the movie "Micheal Clayton" starring George Clooney.
The Wolf in another popular movie.
I like your job bro. I'm from Australia I do handyman business. I love to watch your video. Thanks
Heck yeah a rental video would be awesome
👍👍 some people will never get how to a get a customer and keep them! Not easy
As a sole proprietor electrical contractor who does service installation and repair for residential and commercial, if I don’t take $1K home everyday then I’m not doing my job well. A steady flow of business requires a good website that is fortified with SEO and positive reviews on Google.
How do you make judgement calls on implementing varying levels of a solution without overcommunicating to a passive owner? I always worry they'll think I'm sneaking something in since they don't understand the context, but don't want to skimp either...
Instead of calling it Handyman, you are a Home maintenance problem solver. I have rental units in a different state then where I live. When someone has an issue, all I care about is getting someone out there quickly and to really diagnose and solve the problem. My tenant says they have water under the sink, I have no clue if it's the disposal or leaky faucet or plumbing. I need a "problem solver" that I trust to go out the and identify the real problem, and fix it. I can't assume it's the disposal, and have some rando go out there, see there is a p-trap leak and just replace the disposal because that is what I told them.
Bob Skrobuton I agree. To many just fix the what you tell them regardless if that’s the issue. I can’t do that. I’ll make the call and fix it and we can square up after if needed.
What state are your properties located in?
Damn you got to organize your garage look like a madhouse in there
I can see how hard your trying to tell people and explain why you get paid what you get paid. I can see what a struggle it is. Trolls suck man had one bugging my wife the other day. Keep on keeping on brother I agree with your pricing.
When advertising to local property management companies would you suggest sending snail mail with a nice letter backing or stick to advertising electronically?
Hello Handyman,
Question for you. I assume you send them an invoice when the job is complete correct? Do you list on that invoice, the specific item or job that you did? I'm finding that where I live, the property managers know what things "should cost" and try to chisel the price down due to listing it on the invoice. And I've had these people for a while also.
99 percent of the time the only line item is the address of the house and the total price.
You are in the business of providing solutions.
How long do you wait to get payed form the PM CO from the time you give them an invoice to your bank.
da handyman said "shit show" !!!
How do get the phone to ring? Website with SEO service and barely get calls. What Am I missing? Always complete a project as intended and beyond with great positive customer service. I'm in a good market with not that much competition in Marble Restoration since 2009.
Here's just one of my questions.... do you give written detailed " Estimates" of the work you are going to do and then another detailed "Invoice" of the work you did? I'm asking because I wonder is it good business to show all these details in the paperwork to your customers?
Thanks for your advice.
Only on remodels. For handyman work I get a list texted to me of what the customer wants done. When its done I text them the price.
The Ray Donovan of home preservation.
I've been a handyman for more than 20 years. Love working for myself. Can you please tell us about the 2 microphones you use? I saw the small portable wireless was a Rode, but exactly what model and what's the model of the lav version. Likes, dislikes, etc.
Thank you for all your work and videos!
The lav mic plugs into the small wireless rode. If I don't want to me fully miced up around customers I will just clip the little rode transmitter with out the lav on my collar. Its easy to clip on and off when I need it.
@@TheHandymanBusiness So, is it the Rode Wireless Go Digital Lavalier Wireless Microphone System?
I agree with your business model.
Can I ask how you transitioned from "low price High Value" customers to "Just make the problem go away, I'll pay" customers that you have now?
Love the channels.
Cheers from Tokyo!
Stu
Good question. Being reliable for years and years has helped. Handymen are notoriously undependable workers. The main property management company that I do work for has had a dozen or more guys do work for them over they years. Most of them were real handymen. Just one step up from a bum that can fix some stuff. None of them had the capability to always without fail fix everything they were sent to do. They had a 50% call back on the repairs they were sent to do. The PM had me running around fixing the call back problems. I had one manager say he wished he could clone me. I might make a video on this topic there is a lot to discuss. Another factor is the economy changed. When I started it was 2008 I increased my price as my value was proven and the state of the economy went up.
@@TheHandymanBusiness Thanks for the reply, that's about what I'm doing, I have a small group of clients that do value my work, and I'm getting busier all the time. I'm betting a video on the subject would be well received.
Cheers
Stu
👍
How do you get management companies to hire your LLC. I as thinking of calling different realtors and asking them to hire my company to contract there homeowners investments.
If you're just getting started... or thinking of targeting management companies, there are a couple of ways to go about it. First and probably the best option, if you have friends or family that use a property management company or have friends that work for a property management company contact them first... don't just robocall/ dial for dollars. Get an introduction. Or second, join your local Realtors Association. Go to a few meetings, there are very few contractors that goto regularly, and consistency is what gets you noticed. I did a mixture of both. I got in with the Association office. I became their goto handyman and so whenever a Realtor called looking for someone to fix something, I was at the top of their list. During the hot months I get two to three projects a week from them.
How did you get started finding rental properties and property management companies to work on and for?
I’m looking to use HomeAdvisor to get started. I got laid off and I’m gonna make the leap to self employment! Thanks !
world of mouth.
The Handyman Business thank you! You have been a big inspiration for me. I really appreciate it!
After watching the vid on getting a contractors license, I went to see what my state requires. LOL.
I think I know what or how you got started, or at least it may have been a part of it. You’ve talked about these rich people in the marina that you would talk to and I’m pretty sure that at least one of them has a ton of rental property and in cones you with your small sail boat, but you have that Entrepreneurial outlook on life and they said, “I’m (we’re) going to give you the opportunity of a lifetime” and after running a few #’s in your head, you said, “Let’s do it” and it went from there. Just a hunch and a personal comparison on my part. Given the time line, there were a lot of us guys that shit down about the time you got started and it all hinges on the economy and how much these owners and property managers are willing to pay. Just make sure you don’t end up broke if Biden gets elected!
Where can I network with a property manger ?
I live near Atlanta anyone have any recommendations?
I'm starting my business up right now, part time after work and on the weekends. I'm putting signs out in the wealthier neighborhoods and am thinking of going door to door introducing myself and trying to leave a business card.
What are some other techniques, and are mine even good techniques to try and build a customer base?
I would say when you meet people make sure you look clean and professional. They will judge you before you get half way up the driveway.
Great thanks. I think i have that covered. I have no tattoos clean cut, and nice carhartt clothes. My wife was afraid the cleanliness may imply lack of work ethic but I disagree.
I got started with Homeadvisor. and now all I use is word of mouth. I think Handyman said once to sign up for just one year with them. or you can try to maybe make a deal with a lawn service guy to refer you to his customers if they need some home services.
Never Down... Personally, I would just go streight to the property maintenance companies. Offer ur services, leave cards & when they do Call u, send them a kickback thru the mail as a token of appreciation. That's money their wife don't know about & can use it anywhere without having to explain to anyone. I've always done it in cash, personally but mail might b easier for u at least. Try it.
As a 60 year women, I find it creepy in this day and age for men to come up to my door. Many of us have big guard dogs and are armed. In the wealthier areas you mention it is usually private and they have no solicitation rules , its private, many have security guards.
Leaving business cards or door hangers does not impress many people these days. they see it as waste of paper.
It might be better to talk to someone out mowing their grass, but that's weird too, as you are stopping me from finishing my chores.
Rural areas vs city folks use different approaches i guess, it would be better to make friends or meet people and chat at the local ball park, or grocery store, or dog park, or church or local pub.
With covid everything changed.
Be neat and clean, wear a logo polo shirt, wear khaki pants instead of ripped up jeans...look professional while out and about your town. Just a view from a cranky old lady, who has a spouse that went into RV maintenance biz after retirement.
@5:40 that's a rough way to start off since you won't be making much money at first
Handy man, I know this just adds more stress for you to do BUT on Facebook groups you are able to search comments and posts to get the answers you need. Do you or have you thought about reposting your videos on there and having discussion posts so then you can tell people to use the search bar and find the answers. Just a idea
How do you get new pm clients?
This is a genius idea. Did you cold call the property managers to originally get them?
I had one person not text me back when I said $100 to change a disposal.
Handyman … thinking of leaving my higher paying toxic work culture white collar job that has left me stressed and despondent. I’m pretty handy. How does one handle jobs you might not be excellent at (tile, etc). Do you just sub it out?
I'm excellent at all things in home remodeling. The only things I would sub out are custom solid surface counter tops and custom shower glass.
I highly recommend you don't quit your day job.
any thoughts on a Handyman Business live stream or would it still attract goofballs like me who are not actually in business and just an observer ???
I'm thinking tomorrow night. Here on the business channel.
Lol you're "The Cleaner" 🧹
Living in Atlanta none of what you say about cost/value and prices is out of line in any any major American city.
I think You forgot to add how much your wife allowed your job to grow..so you had time to do it.from my personal experience biggest mistake is to work as subcontractor and waste time.put time and efforts on the jobs so will look good and all the credit goes to gc....I have never advertised my service but every customer is delighted from quality of work I provide. that's how you will build your referalls.in your case 8 years it's short time and you are very lucky as you mentioned .the fear of "overcharging "projects will go away with time and resources (savings) .that's how you will make living .my best advice would be get rid of all debt you have so you can start fresh...it will only drag you down the road and your wife must have stable job
If you bid for the job with knife on your neck just to get it .it will only extend your agony. ....
Should I start a mounting business?