Being a handyman is an appealing line of work. Nearly every day is different. You feel good after a hard day of work knowing that you have truly accomplished something. Whether you are a seasoned DIY’er, or you are just teasing the idea of starting a business, I have come up with 4 essential factors to get you started.
Do you have what it takes to become a Handyman Pro?
With this guide, you’ll explore a few aspects of what it takes to become a professional handyman, from tips buying the essential tools every handyman needs, where to find information when you aren’t sure, and finding and keeping customers.
This is by no means a comprehensive or complete list for starting a handyman business but 4 entry level tips to help you get started!
Learn the Basics of Handyman Repair Work.
As a handyman professional, you’ll need to know the basics of repair work. This includes different types of materials and tools you’ll need for different tasks, such as plumbing and electrical work, carpentry, tile work, painting, drywall installation and repair, and more. Be sure to also learn about building codes and regulations that apply in your area as these may affect certain repairs you do. Most jurisdictions have their codes and references online. It never hurts, if you are uncertain, to look things up before you accept a job!
The internet is a powerful resource and can have a wealth of information. And one of the most valuable resources can be YouTube. I doubt that there is a handyman professional out there that hasn’t brushed up on a skill by watching a video or two. It can be very handy when you are looking for a solution for a specific problem or even general repairs.
Here are a few other resources that can come in handy!
FamilyHandyman.com
ThisOldHouse.com
YouTube.com
ehow.com
And if you are really serious, here is a great website to get you started!
Invest in Essential Tools.
To be a handyman professional, you’ll need to have access to a range of tools. This can include saws, drills, hammers, screwdrivers, and other essential equipment you’ll be using on the job. It is important that you invest in quality tools that are going to last and be reliable. Always try and buy the best tools that you can afford. Quality tools will make all the difference when it comes to doing the job right and ensuring customer satisfaction with your work.
Some of the must have tools that every handyman needs:
Tool Boxes, and a lot of them: I have more tool boxes and parts holders than I’d care to admit. I have found it incredibly helpful to make “kits” with the tools that I need for specific jobs. A box for electrical. A box for plumbing. A box for drywall. A box for flooring. You get the picture. It helps your work flow tremendously when you are able to grab a box and head into a clients home.
Laser Level: This may be my most used tool. It is always in my truck and I find myself using it nearly every job. If you do not have one, get one. Now. You’ll thank me later.
Compressor: Many handymen and contractors are going away from traditional pneumatic tools and going to battery operated counter parts. I, however, am still a traditionalist. I currently use a 20 gallon compressor to run my nail guns and hopper gun. I do a fair mount of dry wall work, and a pancake compressor just doesn’t have the air volume I need.
Tool Belt: Pretty self explanatory. What kind of handyman pro would you be if you didn’t wear one? But seriously. I often work by myself, and after you climbed the ladder for the umptheenth time to retrieve more nails, screws, different screwdriver… You’ll use it.
Practice and Gain Experience.
In addition to having the right tools, practice and experience are essential when it comes to becoming a handyman professional. Start by working on small projects around your own home, or offering services to family and friends. As you gain more experience, you could start taking on bigger jobs and getting paying clients. Look for opportunities to volunteer your services in exchange for experience, or create business connections with local contractors who might be willing to offer advice or mentorship as you build your career as a handyman pro.
Don’t be afraid to find ways to practice at home. When I first started learning how to drywall, I created a mock 2 x 4 studded wall with a half sheet of sheet rock attached to it. I took my time practicing taping, mixing mud, practicing my mud knife skills, and texturing. I made that practice wall perfect, but it didn’t stay that way for long. As soon as the wall was dry, I kicked holes, dinged it with a hammer and all but destroyed all of my work. Then it was pack to patching, sanding, mudding and taping. Make it fun and you will learn more than you know.
Be Visible in Your Niche to Attract Clients.
I am only going to touch briefly on this. A large part of being a handyman professional is knowing your talents and then being able to express that to other people so you can work on their projects. Marketing your yourself is a second full-time job. Self-employment is not for the weak-willed. It is best to focus on a hand full of skills, in which you excel, and start talking to people.
The internet, again, is a great resource to sourcing customers. There are too many forums, services, and apps to name to even scratch the surface. I still believe it is best to meet people face to face and have had great luck in simple interactions around the neighborhood and it passing conversations.
Once you do have a done a few good jobs for clients, you will learn how powerful word-of-mouth can be. It is powerful advertising. Always treat every job as if you intend to use it a promotional material, because in reality, it is. Clients will always talk about good and bad work. As good as it can be however, never be solely reliant upon it. Always be looking for new leads and avenues.
If you are a jack-of-all-trades, or just getting started, I hope I gave some insight on some essential things to keep in mind. If you have the desire to work for yourself, don’t mind working hard, and always learning, give it a shot! Before long, you too will be a Handyman Pro!
If all of this is just too overwhelming, we have a solution for this too! Give us a call or schedule online. We would love you help you out!