1. Always answer your phone. 2. Show up when you say you will even if you need to give them a window. 3. Understand/ learn what margins are. 4. Create a written company culture/ values and live by it. 5. Track numbers at least every week to see how you're doing. 6. Put money aside every week for the winter.
I use tire plugs. If you use fix a flat it will cost more when you have to replace it. they charge extra 15 dollars if it has fix a flat in it. At the john deere store.
I started lawn biz as a side hustle. keep getting new customers until you can't handle the work. then fire your worst customers to balance it out. keep all your customers locations close together so you're not wasting time driving. don't buy commercial grade equipment until you have enough business to pay for it and/or your new residential equipment is failing too often. $1,500 residential riding mower might only last one year but it may be cheaper than a $7,000 commercial mower in the long run. get an enclosed trailer or truck camper top to protect equipment from weather and theft.
@@omarh4694 good question, lawn care millionaire says his favorite way of payment was through a debt card dont know if he had the plug in slider on his phone or what, I try to get cash on site but I'm still pretty small, wbu?
@@jaredalexander3403 standing order or just transfer is best. You can't get credit if you're hiding the cash plus it's a time waster, everyone who pays cash might feel obliged to chat. Cut and leave then message saying to done with pruce
AdamVonBadam hiring the friend might cost more than keeping the lawns. Sometimes you can make more with less. Not always, but something to think about.
1. Give more than paid for and asked for. 2. Use effective powertools when you can (time saver), 3. Always be kind and enthusiastic, 4. Show up on time (extremely important), 5. Advertise by doing quality work, 6. Upsell - Add ideas to customers and say a price, ie shape the hedges different or make a compost corner. Thanks for the good video
Been doing a lawn business for a long time as a side income.My main income was a teacher, but I'm now retired. My tips.1...Learn how to fix your own machinery...I read a Briggs and Straton book way back in the 1980s because I was tired of waiting to get my equipment back..I learned for under 10.00 I could over haul an engine,,,,2. Learn how to fix other things ..like paint, sprinkler systems etc. most of my customers are older women who can't do these things. 3. Don't charge more just because there are leaves in the fall that may take 30 minutes longer...it all works out in the end.Keep them happy happy happy..4. I'm a Christian and live by the verse "And whatsoever ye do ..do it as unto the Lord." I do my lawn jobs as if I was doing our Lord's lawn.5, I charge 25.00 for the first hour and 20 per hour after that...no matter if I'm cutting grass, hanging a ceiling fan or raking leaves...I use a push mower.I don't do contracts..or rip anyone off. I only do the lawn as needed..In FLorida it needs it weekly from May until Sept.15th...and then the leaves need maintained.. Sincerely, Chuck
I did the same thing for years but found out one day that a old lady I gave a big discount to had lied about her income >. she had arailroad widows pention coming in >>$3500 a month. I quit being nice after that to all. the way I figure it now is if you cant pay to live in a nice home move to HUD
Some good advice. I invested in t-shirts with my company logo on them. The local t-shirt place made my logo. I also got magnetic signs for the truck. I felt that those items were a good investment for me. I wear my t-shirts all the time now, whether I am mowing or just out with the wife.
Thanks for the video. I'm 17 and am looking to start up a small business in lawn care after high school next summer and am appreciative of videos like this. Thanks for the tips.
@@okaoalal3144 It went great. The biggest piece of advice I can give is to be solid on exactly what work you can do (can you trim trees, trim bushes, hedge bushes, weedeat, etc.?). If you can only mow, don’t get in over your head and fuck up someone’s yard (this might’ve happened). I remember my first customer wanted hedges trimmed, bushes backed down to a small size, chinese trees pruned, regular trees raised, weedeating and basically anything else EXCEPT mowing, but I was unskilled in all the work I did, so not only did it take longer, but it was done sloppily, resulting in a one-time customer. If you want to establish yourself you will need repeat customers, and to have repeats you have to start simple and honest. “Sorry ma’am, the only services I provide are mowing, weedeating and raising trees.” If you want to become skilled in advanced landscaping for long term business establishment, I highly recommend working under a larger organization where you can learn all the tricks to the trade and all about the new equipment on the market. Landscaping is profitable, therapeutic, hard work and I hope the market treats you well.
I started my business in 2011 when I was 53. I lost my job and decided to do this. Budget was tight but I purchased all new equipment. I do 99% of my own maintenance to save time and money. I found my first job from where I ordered my business cards. To this day, it has been word of mouth and I am inundated with customers. I almost needed help but took too much pride in my work. I could have grown the business but I'm content. I was worried about reliable help. A secret - send Christmas cards to all of your customers. Trust me, you'll be back next year for such a small investment. Also I will give an occasional free cut to a customer, what I call Customer Appreciation Day.
This is fantastic advice. Oftentimes, the Christmas cards will provide tips too (due to the time of year with people being extra generous), and those can help in a pinch when the season is slow.
Sending Christmas cards is a good idea. I am going to order t-shirts with my company logo on them for my customers this year. Pricey, yes, but I look at the more my company name is out there the better my chances at getting customers for next year. Behrlawn.
Exceeding expectations is such good advice - a lot of guys focus on scale as quickly as possible, but having a loyal base of customers who trust you is so valuable as you try to grow the business.
I have been in my own solo business in Lawn care and i sale firewood in Winter, for I live in The South, Arkansas, mainly Masonary township, so I usually know my Customers in come so I do it based on income, this is a great Video but give family a little discount but I go in order always pick up trash an limbs, weedeat mow sometimes 2times for the lines to look good an my best thing , I learned working that it might be worth more but also helps me become a better Worker to were mow an weedeating in my peace of mind brother!! I subscribed an hit that 👍 up button as well!! But I glad I seen this conntent!!
Bang on when it comes to advertising, as a small one-man or couple of guy business, your best advertising tool is word of mouth which is generated typically by your quality of work. The only paid advertising I do is for ads in things like craigslist/kijiji, the cost is typically between 20/40 bucks for 2-4 weeks. Leaps and bounds better than local newspaper adds, teams, calendars etc. I've thrown money at those in the past and can count on one hand in 4 years the amount of people who found me through one of these pricier options (I always ask new clients how they heard about my business so I know what does and doesn't work). Sales people will try to tell you other wise but your better off saving your money for more important things (hand written cards and small gestures to customers like gift cards is a far better investment).
I am a general gardener in England . Reading all the comments here has been a breath of fresh air . So much common sense! For some reason most English gardeners seem compelled to talk a load of shit about how much they earn and how they drive miles to bid for contracts , and this of course is for mowing a lawn BTW, not building an office block or a new highway.
T-bone 686 well in Louisiana the grass grows almost all year(March-Dec.)The leaves on trees don't ever stop falling ,especially on Oak trees. We use mulching mowers all year and that keeps us busy. Our work flow drops maybe 50% in those 2 months. January is the only month we can consider slow. We usually spend time buying up supplies and getting equipment ready for the year in Jan.
J's Crazy Cutz, LLC damn,well thats cool that its an all year round job. Im in california,in the high desert. And the grass goes dormant from October to about march. Was thinking about mowing some lawns on the side this season. Well see what happens
Winter time for me has been learning time I have been reading everything I can find on business sales and marketing. I have also been learning more about lawn care every day to better myself. I am staying hyped by making advertising systems for my company. I have flyers and im going door to door man! Stay hyped for lawn care!
I love your videos! I thought that I was subscribed but now I am. Your tips and tricks are the best on CZcams. It’s my first year this year and I’m more than excited to start this journey. Thank you for all of your videos, I haven’t found one yet that hasn’t been helpful!
Best advertising you can do is to showcase your work. Ask the customer if you can put up a small sign in their yard stating who does their lawn care work. That is the #1 way to advertise for a lawn care company. Everything else is a waste of time and money.
I do this kind of work. Put some money back for repairs. check the yard good before mowing cause if you hit a brick or rock the kids left in the yard it's going to cost you for new blades, maybe spindle too. you will spend more on fixing the mower than your making on the yard. References help a lot. never under charge, I got 30 dollars to cut a yard in the 70's, the price has gone up. Never cut one and not get paid cause if they can they will get twice. ( oh come cut it I'll pay you for both) is a no no. don't give them the opportunity to screw you twice get the money for the first one before you do anything for them.
The only thing with the marketing story is...If someone hears your name and then later on needs a lawn care provider, they might remember yours and call you! I understand about not having the cash though. Watching this series to start my own lawncare business. Great videos! Keep up the good work!
Today I service my first customer and I plan to continue being self-employed and working for myself to make my own dreams come true pose as someone else's I got to say you got some great tips the first time I've ever seen one of your videos thank you much I appreciate your knowledge
So how did you do in your first year? I'm just about to start myself, just looking to make a bit of money, not necessarily be fulltime in the lawn care business. 10 customers would be fine with me. If it turns out better then I will reassess my situation, and if not, then I will have a riding lawn mower for my own yard, something I have wanted for years anyway.
I love this video. Going above and beyond for those first few customers makes the first few months WAY easier. I also agree that sponsoring small football teams and such are a big waste. Do it if you want to be nice but don't delude yourself thinking you will get business from it.
I used to own a Sonic Drive-in. We sponsored our local high school football team, including providing food at games for staff, and even passed out free drink and slush coupons. Over 2 seasons, I made back 2% of my spend. I kept supporting my local school, because I got some good employees from them, but as for marketing, I could have made more money directly giving prospective customers cash.
Agree with all what you say but a big do I feel is to get some clear flyers so when you post them geographically all your customers will be in the same area and support an efficient work route. Once you have work and are doing a quality job additional work is general coming in by word of mouth
I have my successful small lawncare business as a side hustle. 1. Advertising is the bread and butter of the business. Advertise in many different ways and find out which ones work best. 2. Always have your phone to answer calls and ask to text you their name, address, and set up a day and time for an estimate. 3. I charge 60 an hour. So if I think a job will take 2 hours, I charge $120. 4. I make shure residential homes have an empty waste container and if they do not. I ask where they want me to dump the waste. 5. I over exceed espectations because reputation is highly valuable as a business. 6. I offer cash,checks, venmo, zelle payments. 3. My strategy is keep it simple, comfortable and effective. Buy new commercial equipment so you can work effectively, saves you stress, and work comfortable. 3.
I'm simply doin this because it let's me climb ranks. I have everything I need to start doing this, do I'll just make enough to get on a larger scale with a different job that pays more but costs more to start. Then keep climbing soon I'll find myself making much money a day
Jason, I really love your videos and the help that you give us. I have found that in my area of Ohio, if I help “support the kids” their parents help support me. I haven’t had a instance yet, where I’ve lost money off of sponsoring the high school soccer team, cheerleader team, and marching band. Different communities might view that differently. Thanks for all the work you do Jason, to help us out. Keep up the great work.
great advice I always enjoy your videos like you said don't lose vision and I recommend do it debt free another good idea is to write out your goals / vision and put them on your wall next to your desk to remind you what your vision is so you don't lose focus keep up the good work
I would recommend buying well maintained, used equipment. I just bought a husqvarna rz5426 from a guy that was meticulous about maintaining the mower. He has every service he's done written in paint pen under the seat and it was garage kept.
I started out with one disabled family member. with the policy that it was put together for my health and helping family. I already had a income coming in from a small settlement . I never had to advertise but I did put the word out to a few businesses but I was known to be far in price esp with limited income folks. I was always a third less in charging people. or more. the first year I didnt have insurance or a license. but I did my taxes legal. oh and I started out for the first three years only using murry & weedeater brand gear then moved up to a craftsman rider & commercial grade hand gear. I started in 1993 and had to retire due to health concerns in 2016. with five mowing crews, a business cleaning service, land scapping & janitor services. within the whole time no vacations and sometimes 20 hour work days..
That's how I started advertising in local school games by accident I was also called by a student part of their community service for credits and it work for me I got a lot customer from does ad during games because some of these field are well taken cared so when they here that a lawn service is sponsoring they think look at how good that field is even is so its work for me 3yrs and still sponsoring hs 😀
Good advice sir! Sponsoring a local team or whatever is great for people to pat you on the back but they just wont do anything to grow your customer base. My first year in business I was asked to sponsor someone and didn't because I didn't have the budget. The following year I reached out to MULTIPLE local teams and not a single one called back. Point is, they don't put in the effort required to get you any real Return on the investment. But again, if you want the pat on the back, go get it. Also, I made a video last year talking about stupid equipment purchases which ties into your money wasting point. Bought a $800 Honda mower. Yeah it cuts amazingly well but my marketing could have been about $600 better that year If I got a cheaper one haha Dumb Purchase.
+Lower Lawns I think you're right. Most sponsorships do not provide much of a return. Perhaps I should have offer them a dollar figure for every customer they can get me. Put them on a commission. I doubt they would go for that
Nah they have a couple options that are set in stone. I asked about the size of signs at games and the logo on back of the shirts etc. they don't usually have much in the way of options haha.
I am the wife of a new lanscape business owner. We have 1 truck with 2 employees. Not sure how to determine what the overhead would be and how to best set pricing for future clients. One thing I feel he does too often, is he will charge okay for the 1 house in an area. If a neighbor stops him to ask about their property, he will cut it down because he isnt having to drive as much to do theirs. I feel like the 10-15 lost is a lot, because they are mostly biweekly so that makes the loss that much greater. I dont know....am I wrong here?
Do not over extend yourself with the amount of work for the job if you are just starting out. Do pace yourself you will get better results you won't be so exhausted and possibly be able to squeeze in a couple of small jobs in between yards.
First time on your channel. Great insight and I appreciate the use of your common sense overview. I am looking to do this part time. Your knowledge will help me make the correct choices. Looking foward to more videos.
I have a customer who always trys to barter things. At first it was okay for a cut or two but now he's just trying to give me his junk. He says "I like it when money doesn't have to exchange hands,it makes things better that way". And I think I started cutting to make money not hoard shit.
Don't buy lawnmowers at the beginning of the season.. Do buy at the end of the season... you will get a much better deal end of line stock stock clearance etc .. 👍
Well you may get plenty of tire kickers from that type of advertising for sponsoring, but that's about it lol. Now if you are a larger company it seems like a good community supporter as you said.
Being able to afford new commercial grade gear has been a big barrier to me. Ive been mowing for 11 years. Ive had expensive gear, Ive had cheap gear. I guess I shouldnt be pissed, but there are 21-30 yr olds in this town who have gotten loans, had investors, rich daddy's money, you name it, that have 2 trucks WITH wraps, each pulling a trailer with TWO Gravely's ( not just one) a Wright Stander, 2 Honda walk behinds, and about 8 varieties of Stihl trimmers hanging off the side. WTH? And these guys were'nt here last season. They fell out of the sky it seems, have multiple accounts, 2 gazzilion residentials....etc... Kind of sickening. But, Ive got all the customers I want. I work alone, the way I like it. Everytime Ive hired someone, they destroy stuff, and have no respect for my gear.
I agree, and I work alone too, for the same reasons. One person can only do so much. People don't understand when I say I don't have time to take on new costumers.
I know what you mean, I've yet to start my mowing business as I've been spending my free time getting my ducks in a row and planning my departure from the trucking industry (2 weeks) but I've seen it in other professions. Joe Cool down the block decides "I think I want to do that" then on to the wealthy family members to grab handful's of cash, not to mention to social pull those types of people have. It is what it is.
I'm forced to work by myself because every time I hire someone I get such a terrible experiance plus all types of drama. The hispanics during the 1990s used to be very good, hardworking , respectful and not too greedy, I don't know what happened to the new generation, they have a bad attitude, they are entitled, and very greedy . They want to make as much money as the boss
If I charged 1 guy 1 price and lowballed it to get more work, how do I tell all these other people the price is more than what guy #1 got? I got a lot of work from him but need i still need to make money!
Just tell them the price is what it is. Maybe he got a bulk service discount if he gives you more work. If these other people have more consistent work for you then maybe you can sort out a kind of "bulk service" deal for them. Otherwise if they don't like your price, leave me be.
Just know the proper height for mowing on different truf, (higher is always better). I'm on the lawn spraying/treatment side and we would appreciate if lawn services would take a class on how to actually mow at the correct height....
Ty Perdon I agree. Too many "just doing business" boys out there that don't care about anything but the dollar, and so don't take the time to learn proper cut height for different turfs, namely because it doesn't matter to them. For these folks, grass is grass, and it needs cut to make the $$. Best advice I can give: Go above and beyond, know your stuff, know the proper heights to cut at for different types of grass, and LOOK PROFESSIONAL. The same ones who just go out to cut grass and don't care about anything else often are wearing tank top shirts (or worse yet, no shirts), shorts and flip flops. You can't make this stuff up! These guys are a dime a dozen. Don't be like them. Dress nice. Appearance has a tremendous "first impression" effect, and a great "curb appeal" and by that I mean that people will notice your professionalism and be MUCH more likely to ask for your business. More business = more $$.
I have an option to start my own lawn care business and start with a park of 14.000 m2 with mainly grass and some trees. What equipment do you recommend? BIg(ger) push mower size etc?
Great advice, thank you. This will be my first year. Just yesterday I picked up a spotless 8 month old 30hr Exmark Radius for 3k from a home owner who’s moving south to a condo next month. I was and still am stoked! As far as equipment goes I’m fortunate enough to already own a nice Husqvarna push, Stihl trimmer, blower, two Stihl saws (for what it’s worth). My truck is almost paid for so that’s a plus as well. With money being an object what size and type trailer and other equipment would you guys recommend? Any objections to the Tractor Supply trailers? They have a metal 6’x8’ in town here for $899. Thanks again.
If it's just me working as a landscape company and I have 10 yd every day, if it rains all day on one of the days should I still mow the day it rains or would I tack it on to the next day and mow 20 yards
Hi. I want to start my own family lawn business. Would battery operated equipment be ok to start off. I do have a gas powered mower & weed trimmer. And battery mower. And a battery edger blade. Combo weed trimmer . I had the real cheap gas mower. I don't even know brand. Bulky green. Starts on first pull every time. Sounds like cra*. Shaky rough. Vibration. Cuts though... Gas trimmer is Tanaka. Medium duty. But feels super duty to me. . Oh. And I have two pick up truck. Single cabs. Long beds. Old 94 suburban to. I want a small trailer
Battery powered weed eaters and hedge trimmers are great as long as you bring extra charged up batteries. I have some Ryobi 40 volt tools that work great and weren't very expensive. I would stick with a gas mower, though, because battery powered mowers need a long time to recharge and you don't want to run out of power in the middle of a job, and they can't do more than one yard on a charge as far as I know.
1. Always answer your phone.
2. Show up when you say you will even if you need to give them a window.
3. Understand/ learn what margins are.
4. Create a written company culture/ values and live by it.
5. Track numbers at least every week to see how you're doing.
6. Put money aside every week for the winter.
Very good Alex..I agree..and carry a spare mower..
@@chuckborden8532 what like on your back??
@@loganplaysyt5522 yes or by your waste that’s what I do
Thank you for including winter none of these guys include the winter seasons
Keep fix a flat in the trailer.
Keep jumper cables in the trailer
Keep first aid kit in trailer
Keep hand tools in trailer
Good advice. Thanks for sharing
Also a fire extinguisher and a toolkit
keep lock on the trailer
I use tire plugs. If you use fix a flat it will cost more when you have to replace it. they charge extra 15 dollars if it has fix a flat in it. At the john deere store.
Fix a flat? Wow
I started lawn biz as a side hustle. keep getting new customers until you can't handle the work. then fire your worst customers to balance it out. keep all your customers locations close together so you're not wasting time driving. don't buy commercial grade equipment until you have enough business to pay for it and/or your new residential equipment is failing too often. $1,500 residential riding mower might only last one year but it may be cheaper than a $7,000 commercial mower in the long run. get an enclosed trailer or truck camper top to protect equipment from weather and theft.
How do customers pay you?? Do you have them singning contracts??? Or how does that work?? Can you explain it??
@@omarh4694 good question, lawn care millionaire says his favorite way of payment was through a debt card dont know if he had the plug in slider on his phone or what, I try to get cash on site but I'm still pretty small, wbu?
@@jaredalexander3403 standing order or just transfer is best. You can't get credit if you're hiding the cash plus it's a time waster, everyone who pays cash might feel obliged to chat. Cut and leave then message saying to done with pruce
or you could hire a friend to balance it out rather than firing customers
AdamVonBadam hiring the friend might cost more than keeping the lawns. Sometimes you can make more with less. Not always, but something to think about.
1. Give more than paid for and asked for. 2. Use effective powertools when you can (time saver), 3. Always be kind and enthusiastic, 4. Show up on time (extremely important), 5. Advertise by doing quality work, 6. Upsell - Add ideas to customers and say a price, ie shape the hedges different or make a compost corner. Thanks for the good video
Been doing a lawn business for a long time as a side income.My main income was a teacher, but I'm now retired. My tips.1...Learn how to fix your own machinery...I read a Briggs and Straton book way back in the 1980s because I was tired of waiting to get my equipment back..I learned for under 10.00 I could over haul an engine,,,,2. Learn how to fix other things ..like paint, sprinkler systems etc. most of my customers are older women who can't do these things. 3. Don't charge more just because there are leaves in the fall that may take 30 minutes longer...it all works out in the end.Keep them happy happy happy..4. I'm a Christian and live by the verse "And whatsoever ye do ..do it as unto the Lord." I do my lawn jobs as if I was doing our Lord's lawn.5, I charge 25.00 for the first hour and 20 per hour after that...no matter if I'm cutting grass, hanging a ceiling fan or raking leaves...I use a push mower.I don't do contracts..or rip anyone off. I only do the lawn as needed..In FLorida it needs it weekly from May until Sept.15th...and then the leaves need maintained.. Sincerely, Chuck
Surprised you don't mow all year around in Florida?
Thank you Chuck for sharing your testimony..truly was a great help.Stay Blessed.IN JESUS NAME
Wow so good. Thanks for that brother 👍
Thank you, Chuck.
Bobby Wall gets cold in Florida also
I am eleven and I started my company but it's all thanks to you with you channel
+NateTheGamer Bomb thanks. I hope your business goes well
Good on ya mate😀👍✌
That's awesome but how do you keep from being shut down for child labor violations?
@@eyekeepsitreal684 ?
That's awesome. I hope it's going well for you young fella
I use to give disability discounts.. Only to find out everyone was Disabled. People will take advantage of u out there.
Ask for proof, I would... shit I’m a Disabled Vet and provide my Retirement ID anytime asked 🤷♂️
Exactly in any types of businesses
Hahah
I did the same thing for years but found out one day that a old lady I gave a big discount to had lied about her income >. she had arailroad widows pention coming in >>$3500 a month. I quit being nice after that to all. the way I figure it now is if you cant pay to live in a nice home move to HUD
Good man
Some good advice. I invested in t-shirts with my company logo on them. The local t-shirt place made my logo. I also got magnetic signs for the truck. I felt that those items were a good investment for me. I wear my t-shirts all the time now, whether I am mowing or just out with the wife.
me too. I wear mine 6 days a week
Wow! Thanks for that idea!
Thanks for the video. I'm 17 and am looking to start up a small business in lawn care after high school next summer and am appreciative of videos like this. Thanks for the tips.
Hey man how did it goo im a junior starting this year
@@okaoalal3144 It went great. The biggest piece of advice I can give is to be solid on exactly what work you can do (can you trim trees, trim bushes, hedge bushes, weedeat, etc.?). If you can only mow, don’t get in over your head and fuck up someone’s yard (this might’ve happened). I remember my first customer wanted hedges trimmed, bushes backed down to a small size, chinese trees pruned, regular trees raised, weedeating and basically anything else EXCEPT mowing, but I was unskilled in all the work I did, so not only did it take longer, but it was done sloppily, resulting in a one-time customer. If you want to establish yourself you will need repeat customers, and to have repeats you have to start simple and honest. “Sorry ma’am, the only services I provide are mowing, weedeating and raising trees.” If you want to become skilled in advanced landscaping for long term business establishment, I highly recommend working under a larger organization where you can learn all the tricks to the trade and all about the new equipment on the market. Landscaping is profitable, therapeutic, hard work and I hope the market treats you well.
Love all your lawncare vids but could you do a vid on propane and propane accessories for fun?
Haha
He ain’t hank hill
Lawn care and lawn care accessories. lol
😂😂😂
I started my business in 2011 when I was 53. I lost my job and decided to do this. Budget was tight but I purchased all new equipment. I do 99% of my own maintenance to save time and money. I found my first job from where I ordered my business cards. To this day, it has been word of mouth and I am inundated with customers. I almost needed help but took too much pride in my work. I could have grown the business but I'm content. I was worried about reliable help. A secret - send Christmas cards to all of your customers. Trust me, you'll be back next year for such a small investment. Also I will give an occasional free cut to a customer, what I call Customer Appreciation Day.
Good advice. Thanks for sharing.
This is fantastic advice. Oftentimes, the Christmas cards will provide tips too (due to the time of year with people being extra generous), and those can help in a pinch when the season is slow.
Starting over at 59. Let's bop til we drop.
Sending Christmas cards is a good idea. I am going to order t-shirts with my company logo on them for my customers this year. Pricey, yes, but I look at the more my company name is out there the better my chances at getting customers for next year. Behrlawn.
I did that this year and included a business card and wrote on the back that they could use that card for a $5.00 off any service in 2019.
I am now on my 6th year in lawn care. I think the most important thing ive learned, is how to price, and how to get good clients.
Those are definitely two of the most important factors for long-term success. Thanks for sharing
thanks ! I mow on Vancouver Island grass (west canada) i am looking forward for a good season, and thankful for my free ad in yellowpages every year
Any tips on pricing,? I've always been bad about lowballing myself, whether I'm selling something or providing a service unfortunately
@@chrismoore9462 Watch Keith Kalfas : Know your worth.
Pricing is TOO important. Nothing feels worse than doing a huge job for cheap
Biggest waste of money and time is far customers. Money is money when you start out but the grind doesn't keep going with a 15 minute drive.
I have six I can drive my lawn mower to.
I live in the sticks and everyone mows their lawn by me. I'm going to have to drive a little bit unfortunately.
Thank god there are guys like this who take time to offer free information to those starting out. Thank you, brother.
Exceeding expectations is such good advice - a lot of guys focus on scale as quickly as possible, but having a loyal base of customers who trust you is so valuable as you try to grow the business.
Pack your lunch & plenty of water,a large waist of $$$ is when your at the gas stations,ppl don’t realize how much that costs every time 🤓
+Dave Tires good point. I have found that some lunch breaks can be time killer on my route.
I only eat once a day,8oclock every nite,I just know that convenience stores cost a ton of$$$😳
+Dave Tires wow... I hope you eat a big meal each night if you only eat once a day
A man !!!
Not even speaking if you hire somebody. How much time wasted looking at what to buy.
I agree about ads. But it’s just to put that image in their head and give them an idea for way later on.
I came after this video upon deciding to do a lawn business. hopefully I succeed very well.
I have been in my own solo business in Lawn care and i sale firewood in Winter, for I live in The South, Arkansas, mainly Masonary township, so I usually know my Customers in come so I do it based on income, this is a great Video but give family a little discount but I go in order always pick up trash an limbs, weedeat mow sometimes 2times for the lines to look good an my best thing , I learned working that it might be worth more but also helps me become a better Worker to were mow an weedeating in my peace of mind brother!! I subscribed an hit that 👍 up button as well!! But I glad I seen this conntent!!
Bang on when it comes to advertising, as a small one-man or couple of guy business, your best advertising tool is word of mouth which is generated typically by your quality of work. The only paid advertising I do is for ads in things like craigslist/kijiji, the cost is typically between 20/40 bucks for 2-4 weeks. Leaps and bounds better than local newspaper adds, teams, calendars etc. I've thrown money at those in the past and can count on one hand in 4 years the amount of people who found me through one of these pricier options (I always ask new clients how they heard about my business so I know what does and doesn't work). Sales people will try to tell you other wise but your better off saving your money for more important things (hand written cards and small gestures to customers like gift cards is a far better investment).
I am a general gardener in England . Reading all the comments here has been a breath of fresh air . So much common sense! For some reason most English gardeners seem compelled to talk a load of shit about how much they earn and how they drive miles to bid for contracts , and this of course is for mowing a lawn BTW, not building an office block or a new highway.
Video's like this keep me motivated,especially in the winter. Thanks Jason!
J's Crazy Cutz, LLC what kind of lawn care do you do in the winter? I dont have a lawn buisness,im just curious...
T-bone 686 well in Louisiana the grass grows almost all year(March-Dec.)The leaves on trees don't ever stop falling ,especially on Oak trees. We use mulching mowers all year and that keeps us busy. Our work flow drops maybe 50% in those 2 months. January is the only month we can consider slow. We usually spend time buying up supplies and getting equipment ready for the year in Jan.
J's Crazy Cutz, LLC damn,well thats cool that its an all year round job. Im in california,in the high desert. And the grass goes dormant from October to about march. Was thinking about mowing some lawns on the side this season. Well see what happens
J's Crazy Cutz, LLC any advice on how to stay cooler in this southern humid heat? My husband sweats buckets
Winter time for me has been learning time I have been reading everything I can find on business sales and marketing. I have also been learning more about lawn care every day to better myself. I am staying hyped by making advertising systems for my company. I have flyers and im going door to door man! Stay hyped for lawn care!
I love your videos! I thought that I was subscribed but now I am. Your tips and tricks are the best on CZcams. It’s my first year this year and I’m more than excited to start this journey. Thank you for all of your videos, I haven’t found one yet that hasn’t been helpful!
Best advertising you can do is to showcase your work. Ask the customer if you can put up a small sign in their yard stating who does their lawn care work. That is the #1 way to advertise for a lawn care company. Everything else is a waste of time and money.
The problem with that is that some other landscapers will steal your signs
I do this kind of work. Put some money back for repairs. check the yard good before mowing cause if you hit a brick or rock the kids left in the yard it's going to cost you for new blades, maybe spindle too. you will spend more on fixing the mower than your making on the yard. References help a lot. never under charge, I got 30 dollars to cut a yard in the 70's, the price has gone up. Never cut one and not get paid cause if they can they will get twice. ( oh come cut it I'll pay you for both) is a no no. don't give them the opportunity to screw you twice get the money for the first one before you do anything for them.
Sir nice video. I dont know if you hear this much but you with your voice would make an amazing coach to uplift someone. Love the video.
Thank you
The only thing with the marketing story is...If someone hears your name and then later on needs a lawn care provider, they might remember yours and call you! I understand about not having the cash though. Watching this series to start my own lawncare business. Great videos! Keep up the good work!
Today I service my first customer and I plan to continue being self-employed and working for myself to make my own dreams come true pose as someone else's I got to say you got some great tips the first time I've ever seen one of your videos thank you much I appreciate your knowledge
So how did you do in your first year? I'm just about to start myself, just looking to make a bit of money, not necessarily be fulltime in the lawn care business. 10 customers would be fine with me. If it turns out better then I will reassess my situation, and if not, then I will have a riding lawn mower for my own yard, something I have wanted for years anyway.
I love this video. Going above and beyond for those first few customers makes the first few months WAY easier. I also agree that sponsoring small football teams and such are a big waste. Do it if you want to be nice but don't delude yourself thinking you will get business from it.
I used to own a Sonic Drive-in. We sponsored our local high school football team, including providing food at games for staff, and even passed out free drink and slush coupons. Over 2 seasons, I made back 2% of my spend.
I kept supporting my local school, because I got some good employees from them, but as for marketing, I could have made more money directly giving prospective customers cash.
Your videos are Great. This is a Two year old video and it comes up first when you search start a mowing business. You Da Man Jason.
Good tips, my son wants to start a small lawn mowing business and this helped us out. 👍
Agree with all what you say but a big do I feel is to get some clear flyers so when you post them geographically all your customers will be in the same area and support an efficient work route. Once you have work and are doing a quality job additional work is general coming in by word of mouth
I have my successful small lawncare business as a side hustle.
1. Advertising is the bread and butter of the business. Advertise in many different ways and find out which ones work best. 2. Always have your phone to answer calls and ask to text you their name, address, and set up a day and time for an estimate.
3. I charge 60 an hour. So if I think a job will take 2 hours, I charge $120.
4. I make shure residential homes have an empty waste container and if they do not. I ask where they want me to dump the waste.
5. I over exceed espectations because reputation is highly valuable as a business.
6. I offer cash,checks, venmo, zelle payments.
3. My strategy is keep it simple, comfortable and effective. Buy new commercial equipment so you can work effectively, saves you stress, and work comfortable.
3.
I'm simply doin this because it let's me climb ranks. I have everything I need to start doing this, do I'll just make enough to get on a larger scale with a different job that pays more but costs more to start. Then keep climbing soon I'll find myself making much money a day
Jason, I really love your videos and the help that you give us. I have found that in my area of Ohio, if I help “support the kids” their parents help support me. I haven’t had a instance yet, where I’ve lost money off of sponsoring the high school soccer team, cheerleader team, and marching band. Different communities might view that differently. Thanks for all the work you do Jason, to help us out. Keep up the great work.
Good point. I can see how that would work in many cases.
Wow I not only got good tips from this video but got a lot of tips from other experienced business people too in the comments. Thanks all.the 🙏
great advice I always enjoy your videos like you said don't lose vision and I recommend do it debt free another good idea is to write out your goals / vision and put them on your wall next to your desk to remind you what your vision is so you don't lose focus keep up the good work
I would recommend buying well maintained, used equipment. I just bought a husqvarna rz5426 from a guy that was meticulous about maintaining the mower. He has every service he's done written in paint pen under the seat and it was garage kept.
Good advice, good timing too since a lot of us out there are about to get geared up to go pretty soon
I started out with one disabled family member. with the policy that it was put together for my health and helping family. I already had a income coming in from a small settlement . I never had to advertise but I did put the word out to a few businesses but I was known to be far in price esp with limited income folks. I was always a third less in charging people. or more. the first year I didnt have insurance or a license. but I did my taxes legal. oh and I started out for the first three years only using murry & weedeater brand gear then moved up to a craftsman rider & commercial grade hand gear. I started in 1993 and had to retire due to health concerns in 2016. with five mowing crews, a business cleaning service, land scapping & janitor services. within the whole time no vacations and sometimes 20 hour work days..
What is the moral of the story?
like the energy in your vid
That's how I started advertising in local school games by accident I was also called by a student part of their community service for credits and it work for me I got a lot customer from does ad during games because some of these field are well taken cared so when they here that a lawn service is sponsoring they think look at how good that field is even is so its work for me 3yrs and still sponsoring hs 😀
Good point
I'm keeping my job while starting my business for financial security I have 3 days off so I will try to get clients during those days
Good advice sir! Sponsoring a local team or whatever is great for people to pat you on the back but they just wont do anything to grow your customer base. My first year in business I was asked to sponsor someone and didn't because I didn't have the budget. The following year I reached out to MULTIPLE local teams and not a single one called back. Point is, they don't put in the effort required to get you any real Return on the investment. But again, if you want the pat on the back, go get it.
Also, I made a video last year talking about stupid equipment purchases which ties into your money wasting point. Bought a $800 Honda mower. Yeah it cuts amazingly well but my marketing could have been about $600 better that year If I got a cheaper one haha Dumb Purchase.
+Lower Lawns I think you're right. Most sponsorships do not provide much of a return. Perhaps I should have offer them a dollar figure for every customer they can get me. Put them on a commission. I doubt they would go for that
Nah they have a couple options that are set in stone. I asked about the size of signs at games and the logo on back of the shirts etc. they don't usually have much in the way of options haha.
I am the wife of a new lanscape business owner. We have 1 truck with 2 employees. Not sure how to determine what the overhead would be and how to best set pricing for future clients. One thing I feel he does too often, is he will charge okay for the 1 house in an area. If a neighbor stops him to ask about their property, he will cut it down because he isnt having to drive as much to do theirs. I feel like the 10-15 lost is a lot, because they are mostly biweekly so that makes the loss that much greater. I dont know....am I wrong here?
Love it! Thanks so much. Very helpful as I plan to get a start up going here soon. Roll tide baby!
strong business advice for any new start up
Thank you. Glad to help
Instead of focusing on weeds and grass you can do leaf blowing or maybe salt driveways
Do not over extend yourself with the amount of work for the job if you are just starting out. Do pace yourself you will get better results you won't be so exhausted and possibly be able to squeeze in a couple of small jobs in between yards.
Thank you for the advice it’s winter time and I’m planning on starting up later and this helps me alot
I used to be a professional lawn mower for the city, been looking to go freepance. Some good tips here.
I think num 1 should be put as much money as u can back into your buisness keep investing in your self
Great vid. I would be interested in hearing about marketing, it's always helpful to hear those story's and tips!
+Moses Hall marketing seems to be a never ending learning opportunity. I am constantly learning about it
First time on your channel. Great insight and I appreciate the use of your common sense overview. I am looking to do this part time. Your knowledge will help me make the correct choices. Looking foward to more videos.
Thanks for all the info .. really helps out when starting out
I about died laughing on this video! Great video though it’s so truthful
Thankyou great advice
And it doesn't hurt to buy used equipment that runs good but half the price that you would pay for a new 1
I agree. Sometimes you can find a great deal on a used mower.
I have a customer who always trys to barter things. At first it was okay for a cut or two but now he's just trying to give me his junk. He says "I like it when money doesn't have to exchange hands,it makes things better that way". And I think I started cutting to make money not hoard shit.
The Sanford And Son of Lawn care!!!😂😂😂
@@gadsdenconsulting7126 lol this it's the truth
😂😂 too funny
my brother had a lawn care business for 5 years and the customer's got to where to just didn't want to pay during 2009 depression.
That was a bad time to do any kind of business.
Thank you for this information. It is invaluable.
Thanks for your time man. I appreciate it.
What’s a good rule of thumb for coming up with pricing/rates ?
Keeping prices up is necessary because of FUEL
Don't buy lawnmowers at the beginning of the season..
Do buy at the end of the season... you will get a much better deal end of line stock stock clearance etc .. 👍
thank you very mulch
When you see ads and hear commercials about a company, you're more likey yo call when you need something.
Well said brother thank you
Awesome video dude I can tell you're a smart marketer I like that. Thanks for sharing and if you had the time I'd have a couple questions for ya
do you use an app to keep up with accounts
Great video
Thank you, Sir.
thinking of lawncare to help pay for a semi-retirement lifestyle just to make 500-1000 a week
Well you may get plenty of tire kickers from that type of advertising for sponsoring, but that's about it lol. Now if you are a larger company it seems like a good community supporter as you said.
I'm 17 and I really enjoy mowing my family's garden, but how would I go about going to people's houses?
Being able to afford new commercial grade gear has been a big barrier to me. Ive been mowing for 11 years. Ive had expensive gear, Ive had cheap gear. I guess I shouldnt be pissed, but there are 21-30 yr olds in this town who have gotten loans, had investors, rich daddy's money, you name it, that have 2 trucks WITH wraps, each pulling a trailer with TWO Gravely's ( not just one) a Wright Stander, 2 Honda walk behinds, and about 8 varieties of Stihl trimmers hanging off the side. WTH? And these guys were'nt here last season. They fell out of the sky it seems, have multiple accounts, 2 gazzilion residentials....etc... Kind of sickening. But, Ive got all the customers I want. I work alone, the way I like it. Everytime Ive hired someone, they destroy stuff, and have no respect for my gear.
I agree, and I work alone too, for the same reasons. One person can only do so much. People don't understand when I say I don't have time to take on new costumers.
I know what you mean, I've yet to start my mowing business as I've been spending my free time getting my ducks in a row and planning my departure from the trucking industry (2 weeks) but I've seen it in other professions. Joe Cool down the block decides "I think I want to do that" then on to the wealthy family members to grab handful's of cash, not to mention to social pull those types of people have. It is what it is.
I'm forced to work by myself because every time I hire someone I get such a terrible experiance plus all types of drama. The hispanics during the 1990s used to be very good, hardworking , respectful and not too greedy, I don't know what happened to the new generation, they have a bad attitude, they are entitled, and very greedy . They want to make as much money as the boss
Thanks for everything.
Great video, very informative. Appreciate it.
If I charged 1 guy 1 price and lowballed it to get more work, how do I tell all these other people the price is more than what guy #1 got? I got a lot of work from him but need i still need to make money!
Jason following this comment for an answer...in the same pinch
Just tell them the price is what it is. Maybe he got a bulk service discount if he gives you more work. If these other people have more consistent work for you then maybe you can sort out a kind of "bulk service" deal for them. Otherwise if they don't like your price, leave me be.
Thank u for the helpful tips
I really appreciate it
Luckily I was blessed with a zero turn lawnmower at 14. Im about to start getting into the mowing buisness. Any other tips/suggestions?
Just know the proper height for mowing on different truf, (higher is always better). I'm on the lawn spraying/treatment side and we would appreciate if lawn services would take a class on how to actually mow at the correct height....
Ty Petrisin thanks. I'll remeber that
Ty Perdon
I agree. Too many "just doing business" boys out there that don't care about anything but the dollar, and so don't take the time to learn proper cut height for different turfs, namely because it doesn't matter to them. For these folks, grass is grass, and it needs cut to make the $$. Best advice I can give: Go above and beyond, know your stuff, know the proper heights to cut at for different types of grass, and LOOK PROFESSIONAL. The same ones who just go out to cut grass and don't care about anything else often are wearing tank top shirts (or worse yet, no shirts), shorts and flip flops. You can't make this stuff up! These guys are a dime a dozen. Don't be like them. Dress nice. Appearance has a tremendous "first impression" effect, and a great "curb appeal" and by that I mean that people will notice your professionalism and be MUCH more likely to ask for your business. More business = more $$.
I have an option to start my own lawn care business and start with a park of 14.000 m2 with mainly grass and some trees. What equipment do you recommend? BIg(ger) push mower size etc?
thank you.. good tips,
Cool thanks
I do senior discounts 80% of customers are older people who can’t do it themselves
What’s your recommended going rate for a average grass cut
$60 per hour is a good rule of thumb. Ask for free estimates from other gardeners on your home to see the competition pricing.
Great advice
Great video. Lots of good points
Great video as usual. Good reminder to keep motivated this time of season
+John Romanelli thank you. Hopefully we have made it through the slowest part of the year. I consider now to be the Calm before the storm
Awesome video bro
Thank you
Hey Jason love all your videos man they're very inspiring hey what's your opinion on bandit signs??
I'm not familiar with bandit signs
Jimmy Wadswort
Nice video
Great advice, thank you. This will be my first year. Just yesterday I picked up a spotless 8 month old 30hr Exmark Radius for 3k from a home owner who’s moving south to a condo next month. I was and still am stoked!
As far as equipment goes I’m fortunate enough to already own a nice Husqvarna push, Stihl trimmer, blower, two Stihl saws (for what it’s worth). My truck is almost paid for so that’s a plus as well. With money being an object what size and type trailer and other equipment would you guys recommend?
Any objections to the Tractor Supply trailers? They have a metal 6’x8’ in town here for $899. Thanks again.
Subbed btw 👍
what do you guys recommend for insurance? I'm just trying to do side hustle maybe 10-15 yards a week
Good videos man !
If it's just me working as a landscape company and I have 10 yd every day, if it rains all day on one of the days should I still mow the day it rains or would I tack it on to the next day and mow 20 yards
Greatest videos
Hi. I want to start my own family lawn business. Would battery operated equipment be ok to start off. I do have a gas powered mower & weed trimmer.
And battery mower. And a battery edger blade. Combo weed trimmer .
I had the real cheap gas mower. I don't even know brand. Bulky green. Starts on first pull every time. Sounds like cra*. Shaky rough. Vibration. Cuts though...
Gas trimmer is Tanaka. Medium duty. But feels super duty to me. .
Oh. And I have two pick up truck. Single cabs. Long beds. Old 94 suburban to. I want a small trailer
Battery powered weed eaters and hedge trimmers are great as long as you bring extra charged up batteries. I have some Ryobi 40 volt tools that work great and weren't very expensive. I would stick with a gas mower, though, because battery powered mowers need a long time to recharge and you don't want to run out of power in the middle of a job, and they can't do more than one yard on a charge as far as I know.