I call myself a Property Management Contractor. I do great financially, socially, and physically, and I'm not changing a dang thing about my modus operandi; except to get better, faster, smarter about every single task 13 years in and love every day. I have $2 million in Liability Insurance, Workmen's Comp, two dedicated work trucks, full health insurance, a shop, and about every tool known to man. 90% of my success is due to showing up and carefully creating my business model.
Very nice, Tom. Congrats on your success! Had you thought of "Property Maintenance" Contractor, as opposed to "Property Management"? Just curious why you selected that particular verbiage.
This is exactly where I'm at in this field I've been side hustling at it for about 7 months and enjoy the work and want to make it a true business please do more videos with information like this
You're absolutely correct when you ask a electrician or carpenter, etc that they will say a "handyman is a hack" but that is because they tend to be bias. I could care less what they think in the first place because my concern is my clients not THEM. I know for a fact that calling myself a "handyman" is directly responsible for why I get the work I do. Homeowners are looking for handymen specifically. They want someone who does it all at a lower cost. My business right now is doing very good and that is based mostly on word of mouth. If you do professional work people WILL take notice. As far as insurance, that is not necessary unless you are looking to be licensed. And that is because you are dealing with main water, electricity, and gas which can result is serious problems if done wrong. Furthermore, when you have those bills you must work harder and that means you must charge your customers more. These are all things to be considered.
Great advice here. Been a small business owner for 20 years, and I learned the hard way the importance of keeping good books and keeping personal and business finances separated. Not a handyman (and no desire to become one) but enjoy watching and picking up tips here and there (about handyman stuff and business). Also, just in trying to HIRE handymen and even "professionals" in my area, I just wish there was a Handyman around here. I'd happily pay the (probably high) rates to get the level of professionalism and customer service you show. The bar is set so low I'm shocked more people don't decide to pick up a trade or two and go out on their own being a handyman or similar. Instead they pay six figures to get their bachelor's degree only to make $36k a year fresh out of college. Insanity.
From the moment I started building things and working with my hands I knew I would never go back. And at this point I just work for good people who need good workers while hitting side jobs.
This is why I don't call myself a "Handyman" I'm a craftsman. Yes, I have done all the things you say in the video, but I'm still growing my business. love this type of video, keep them coming please!
as a licenced plumber i am forced to work as a handyman for friends and family. for some reason they think i can fix everything from windows to fences ...
If “Handyman” is what they are thinking or seeking, then don’t avoid the handle. My business card says “Handyman & Honey-do Lists”. I describe my work as a DIY expert for clients who don’t want to DIY. The cards are designed to appeal to suburban housewives. I sell gift certificates for a full day of miscellaneous Honey-Do projects and Father’s Day is the best time of year for that-followed by spring & fall cleaning seasons. There’s no reason to repackage the handyman trade and re-educate the clients to do it your way. Just embrace what you do and be the best, most professional, most successful handyman in your market.
I guess by definition, I am "technnically" a handyman but I would NEVER use that word in any of the marketing I do (not that I do much actual marketing). Best thing to do is to LEARN how to do all manor of jobs to a good / excellent standard, use quality tools, be polite curtious and professional in everything you do - people respond to that in a positive way. I win a lot of jobs just on the back of the way I present my actual estimate for the job. People are amazed by the way it is all laid out and the professional way it is presented to them. Little things like this actually MATTER ! Great content as always and all you would be "handymen" of the future should take note of the advice offered !
This is so true, outside of the drinking problem lol you describe me and my “business” in its earliest stages... I learned that the way people perceive you is the way they believe you, so in order to be taken more serious and ultimately command more income I had to stop being “handy” and start being PROFESSIONAL.
My friend with a lawn service told us once that from his residential development where he lived he drove by a commercial business on the corner at least 2x each day. He decided to bid them. The lady said this happens all the time, people asking to mow, and lets cut to the chase, I need to see $1m in Liability coverage. He joked his agent won't reduce his $2m Policy, lol. She was genuinely surprised that FINALLY someone was professional.
As a homeowner, a handyman is a lot more useful. I need someone who is not locked in to one trade. I call an electrician, but he cant patch the drywall he cut in to, that guy is useless. Too many people in the trades refuse to work outside their specialty. A handyman is a generalist who can do a good job at a lot of things.
They are called specialist for a reason. If that’s the case, a general doctor is more useful than a specialty doctor.. which isn’t the case. Let the pros do what they specialize in. That’s always going to give you the best results.
@@SpideyRowdy but if adequate results are enough, you don't want to pay for the best results. sure, in a perfect world I would want perfect in everything, but that would also mean I would pay my year´s salary to this guy or a team of guys to make perfect work with the best material. it's like instead of just fast fixing your 100 dollars washing machine with a thing, so it works for few years again, they replace it with the most expensive washing machine on the planet and charge an extra premium for the installation and renovate your whole houses pipeline just for that new machine. sure, I let dentists take care of my teeth, not a general nurse, she literally does not know anything about fixing teeths except that if your tooth aches, she refers you to a dentist. but I also ask just a reception girl for a free cup of water and aspirin for a headache, not a brain surgeon team to mess up my brain with a million-dollar open brain surgery so I literally cannot ever have a headache again.
great video as always, thanks for all the good tips you selflessly share, and I started a home repair company, I look forward to your next video and all your tips
Great topic and very helpful. I've got a woodworking business, and I also have a separate account in a different bank, insurance, website, etc. Good advice
Unfortunately i did register my business with handyman. I do pretty much the same work as you handyman. I mostly work on referrals but I'm still building more customer base with new unvetted customers. With handyman in my business name I always get the look of. Oh geez this guy looks clean and isn't drunk so he must be to expensive. I do wish I had put more thought into my business name but the more referral business that comes my way it's maturing less and less. Great video
Great “words of wisdom” from the Handyman👍🏻 Just like any business... Have seen horrible “Handymen” & GREAT “Handymen”; & same goes with “Professionals”. Have been called into a home that was “fixed” by handymen & professionals that had no idea what they were doing & got in over their heads. So, don’t dismiss a person that is a “Handyman” just on the name/title alone; always do your homework & check out last jobs, ask for some references from previous work that are willing to talk, & research them. This goes for the Pros as well. Just because they are a “professional contractor” doesn’t make them necessarily “better”, etc.... I’d say, before you fork over your hard earned money to ANYONE working on your home/project, check [them] or [their] company out. You might be surprised, & just might save yourself a headache later on. Cheers✌🏼
This is an important & helpful topic. Always wondered whether you marketed yourself as something more fanciful than a mere handyman. I've taken a lot of queues from you in getting my own business going over the last 22 months. I deliberately chose to use "Handyman Services" in my business name because the initial focus was on gaining lots of customers and experience and also because it's particularly well suited for my regional demographic. On those rare occasions when I encounter handyman stigma, I take the opportunity to either sell myself or weed out a cheapskate budget wanker that I probably don't need as a customer anyway. All things considered, I am still likely to change legal structure and tweak my branding as the business continues to evolve. Thanks for all your videos.
Great introduction video to the business. I don't like to call myself a handyman because of the stereo type image. I'm a remodeling and repair specialist because I go in and professionally solve home repair problems for customers.
Great advice as always, but there is one big glaring problem, at least for me and my area. You cant get liability insurance without a license. And as you said, the insurance company will audit you to ensure you are working within your insurance limits. The handyman license that is avaiable to me is so pathetic in its scope that it would be impossible to make a living doing only what it covers. The only and i mean the only way to be a handyman in my area legally is to be a fully fledged general contractor. Actually, that wont even cover it, as a GC cant legally touch an outlet or a toilet as far as i know. Its insane. If you want to be legal and insured you flat out cant be a handyman in FL.
Good morning sir. I am a novice at best in carpentry. I need to replace my outside deck stairs which are wood. It is 11 stairs/treads. What is the best approach in doing them myself. I thought about using the string that is in the best condition and using it as a template. What do you suggest? Thank you
I was forced to become my own handyman cause had no cash to pay someone to do my repairs, only time I was in over my head was when I had to jack up posts that needed new concrete footers for a 36X 55 barn.
My business is called Doubble R Maintenance. I am a general contractor by my license. And I have business insurance. I still get called for minor repairs. And people cal me a " handyman" I don't mind. Because I enjoy putting checks in the bank and I even accept credit and debit cards
Went to school for electrical residential. Worked as a carpenter in the field for 20 years. Plastering 1 year. Trim plumbing many years. Hold shit tons of insurance. Gen liability, work comp, licensing, taxes , state certified building contractor. Pain in the arse but I am my own boss and set my own schedule. Etc etc etc. Accountant for books and am an s corp. One customer said you are not a handyman you are a professional carpenter. And her husband asked how do you know all this stuff.
Nah man, the real steps are as follows: 1. Show up to your appointments. 2. Be sober/ clean/ respectful. 3. Know how the F%@# to do the thing you're hired to do.
If your in construction you know that it doesn’t matter if you are an electrician, a carpenter, a plumber or a handyman because we are all equally hacks. Be a handyman and make money dont let ego or anyone else tell you what to do. Just take pride in what you do and the rest will follow.
2:40 No certs or contractor licenses for a “handyman”; no insurance and don’t need to pay taxes. Still likely must have a business lic of some kind tho.. *Really good info here-you NEED to re-review this later* 5:25 You need to get registered as an LLC w/ the state; recommends a “S” corp later.. 6:20 Most handyman services work for cash 7:00 “I’ve never had a customer ask for my insurance”; $1300 per yr for decent ins.
Should I drop handyman out of my business? I've had success with a professional handyman business but I wonder if changing the name will hurt my business. Naming it "home improvements" or just "construction co." may have some people passing on me for the smaller work but I agree it may not command a higher price.
So i live in Oregon and to be a handyman that makes more the 2500 a year you have to have your ccb. I was thinking maybe you did too becuse i saw you wearing a timbers soccer coat. I wish it was more lax like that here.
Handyman, I have a question re. toilet repairs. Question: what would you do, or recommend, if we showed up to a job for a "leaking toilet, or running toilet" and the toilet was filled with *brown* water and feces? Would you- walk, call a drain cleaning business, or would you do whatever to empty the poop, et al? I'm not trying to be gross but when thinking about doing toilet repairs, well- I managed 10 rentals and saw what can and does happen. Your feedback, please. Thanks.
Plumbers deal with sh*t every day. Take a photo with your camera, clean it yourself and charge an extra $200 for the pleasure. Before you got the the call, let them know the loo must be clean or it will cost extra. Generally speaking, poo is not hazardous... it just hurts your ego.
I have been a handyman for about 18 years now. I put out business cards the first 2 years. Now work off word of mouth. I still have customers that do not like that I give receipts. Anywhere from $50-$4,000 they don’t like it. But they still keep on calling.
Im semi disabled bad feet , nothing works from the knees down but i still can do a lot if i can sit a lot, i cant make but so much extra money or i will get in trouble, i had a contractors lic insurance llc all that shit before i got sick ,this is why i work like i do now all under the table mainly to have something to do, i may not do any jobs for months then boom i have 3 . i just did 900 sq ft of hardwood flooring it about killed me the first 2 days i made about 1800 bucks and i worked about 5-6 hours a day and it took me about 5 days
It's a minor thing, but I would always choose a credit union over a bank unless you have a specific reason to choose a bank. Most credit unions are not out to get you and the sad reality is that's not true for most big Banks
Why separate banks for business and personal banking? I have all my customers write checks to my business name, deposit into my business account and transfer my living expenses to my personal. Same bank.
I only work on referrals I don't exist anywhere except in word of mouth. I am a remodel contractor but the word of mouth is I am a guy that do do just about anything.
The Handyman Business yea I remember you saying that you only work of referrals but yea that’s what I was getting at haha , so you’re what we call in Australia a Jack of all trades lol
In so many words you nailed it Handyman - generally 'handyman work' means unspecialized, nonprofessional work, often labor intensive, and "affordable" which is just another word for cheap. They are jacks of all trades and masters of none, and you can avoid paying them the big bucks and assume you may get a lesser quality of work than say a professional in any given trade. There may be a deal to be had if it is an experienced guy that's learned a few things over the years but I wouldn't count on top shelf quality. Handymen or maintenance crews that throw paint on apartment walls, snake a sink, and replace a light bulb or air filter but are probably complete hacks when it comes to a full remodel that involves several skills that have any kind of code compliance. For example, a bathroom remodel can dive into electrical, plumbing, tiling, framing, window and door installation...it's not likely an off the street handyman will be licensed in any of this kind of work. That's not to say he can't pick up a book and read BUT if you smell alcohol on his breath I wouldn't bet much on his attention to detail and code compliance. How much do you want a floor flooded with water, tiles popping up and leaking through the floor, a small electrical fire? Not to mention the dash and dine mentality of some handymen/contractor hacks that take your money and run without completing the work. Having proper paperwork to back up your claim as a business person will go a LONG way in proving your legitimacy as a business and as a trusted partner. Once you establish a legal entity, you have some legal protections (isolation between YOUR assets and the business) as well as protections that insurance offers. Without having an LLC (or some form of a legal entity) and liability insurance it's like driving a car without a license and insurance; you might get by without it but the first incident and you are totally screwed and it can cost you a fortune in legal fees alone.
Can anyone add anything to why to keep business and personal accounts at seperate banks? Obviously I know keeping actual accounts separated, but why at completely different banks? To help with self-control with paying yourself? To not destroy a relationship with your personal bank if something happens to the business?
The risk is just too great to run into problems. Anytime you might feel inclined to transfer funds to cover whatever emergency you have would be an example of unreported income.
When I was starting my business. I was single and lived on a sailboat 6 months out of the year. Times have changed so much It has been 11 years. There are so many easy ways to get work and stay busy. I get a phone call every week from Amazon asking me to be an installer for their products. I only made around $30,000 when I started I was only working a 6 months though.
@@TheHandymanBusiness CLB got me in a sting a year ago. Hasn't slowed me down at all. I got a lawyer. He asked if I could paint his new office, stain his office door for exchange of his service. I refuse to get a license. I have plenty of customers and to keep busy. When I do get invited to a sting (every 6 months) I tell them to wipe my ass for me and leave.
But how do you get jobs when you are starting up? I don't have anything at the moment and have no clue about anything on how to get started. Don't you have a video on "How to get started as a Handyman?" I downloaded Jobber but that just manages quotes and the business not how to get and secure jobs. Do I use "Nextdoor" and just throw it out there, "If anyone is looking for a handyman to fix stuff or install stuff, I'm available." Seriously, there is a lot of new development in my area with homes being built by the truckloads (for some reason) and you said people want something more than these "spec'ed" home features and you went in and upgraded parts of peoples homes and what? Did that generate leads for you and do you go out and search for jobs? Do you get calls for jobs? Do they hit you up on some app for work? Do you use Angie's List, Taskrabbit, or Thumbtack? HOW DOES ONE GET JOBS?
Its really hard to see letting the Dept of Making Things Suck run you as a goal to success, lol. I do understand your point, it just sounds like letting leeches suck on you for success.
Yes... The handyman name sucks! I used the name because my kids made it up.... I did start off with insurance and certificate.. But lots of people ask.. "the quality of work you do doesn't fit handyman" But I just wanted to do this alone (sometimes use help).. but seems I never have small enough jobs to do myself. But I understand what you mean.. and after a year or so more.. I am changing the name.. (I just spent $1200 on shirts,long sleeve and hoodies)... When they wear out, name changes
You don't want to risk your bank shutting down your personal accounts if your business runs into trouble. Also, having business and personal accounts in the same place can make things a little murky if the taxman comes a knockin. Taxman never gives you the benefit of the doubt :)
Oh the "WOKE" left have not gotten to the compound word "handyman" yet? and try to change it to handyperson or something? Anyhow handyman I thought was just a word describing a man who is handy able to do many various projects, fixing, doing, creating even. Just some are better skilled or experienced than other By the way love you vid thank you for it!
Only app Made for handymen, by handymen! bit.ly/2C9ktMa
Trying this now, hopefully going to start the business soon. Doing jobs on the side for friends right now. Thanks for the videos
I call myself a Property Management Contractor. I do great financially, socially, and physically, and I'm not changing a dang thing about my modus operandi; except to get better, faster, smarter about every single task 13 years in and love every day. I have $2 million in Liability Insurance, Workmen's Comp, two dedicated work trucks, full health insurance, a shop, and about every tool known to man. 90% of my success is due to showing up and carefully creating my business model.
Very nice, Tom. Congrats on your success! Had you thought of "Property Maintenance" Contractor, as opposed to "Property Management"? Just curious why you selected that particular verbiage.
I'm not a handyman. I was never a handyman, and probably I will never be one. Still, I love watching your videos.
This is exactly where I'm at in this field I've been side hustling at it for about 7 months and enjoy the work and want to make it a true business please do more videos with information like this
"No certifications, probably a drinking problem,no insurance"
Can't let them see behind the curtain, Handyman.
I laughed and cried at that comment...
Hilarious. LOL
Classic...
Sounds like you've have a bad experience, doesn't mean they are all that way. Seems you have a bad attitude. Some people
Side Hustle rule number 1. If you get paid in cash, don't put it in the bank.
You're absolutely correct when you ask a electrician or carpenter, etc that they will say a "handyman is a hack" but that is because they tend to be bias. I could care less what they think in the first place because my concern is my clients not THEM. I know for a fact that calling myself a "handyman" is directly responsible for why I get the work I do. Homeowners are looking for handymen specifically. They want someone who does it all at a lower cost. My business right now is doing very good and that is based mostly on word of mouth. If you do professional work people WILL take notice. As far as insurance, that is not necessary unless you are looking to be licensed. And that is because you are dealing with main water, electricity, and gas which can result is serious problems if done wrong. Furthermore, when you have those bills you must work harder and that means you must charge your customers more. These are all things to be considered.
More applicable knowledge in this video than an entire year of college.....for free! What a time to be alive. #value
Great advice here. Been a small business owner for 20 years, and I learned the hard way the importance of keeping good books and keeping personal and business finances separated. Not a handyman (and no desire to become one) but enjoy watching and picking up tips here and there (about handyman stuff and business). Also, just in trying to HIRE handymen and even "professionals" in my area, I just wish there was a Handyman around here. I'd happily pay the (probably high) rates to get the level of professionalism and customer service you show. The bar is set so low I'm shocked more people don't decide to pick up a trade or two and go out on their own being a handyman or similar. Instead they pay six figures to get their bachelor's degree only to make $36k a year fresh out of college. Insanity.
From the moment I started building things and working with my hands I knew I would never go back. And at this point I just work for good people who need good workers while hitting side jobs.
This is why I don't call myself a "Handyman" I'm a craftsman.
Yes, I have done all the things you say in the video, but I'm still growing my business.
love this type of video, keep them coming please!
as a licenced plumber i am forced to work as a handyman for friends and family. for some reason they think i can fix everything from windows to fences ...
Same here, HVAC though. Can't hardly pound a nail, but give me some sheet metal...!
If “Handyman” is what they are thinking or seeking, then don’t avoid the handle. My business card says “Handyman & Honey-do Lists”. I describe my work as a DIY expert for clients who don’t want to DIY. The cards are designed to appeal to suburban housewives. I sell gift certificates for a full day of miscellaneous Honey-Do projects and Father’s Day is the best time of year for that-followed by spring & fall cleaning seasons. There’s no reason to repackage the handyman trade and re-educate the clients to do it your way. Just embrace what you do and be the best, most professional, most successful handyman in your market.
Love these ideas!!!!!
I guess by definition, I am "technnically" a handyman but I would NEVER use that word in any of the marketing I do (not that I do much actual marketing). Best thing to do is to LEARN how to do all manor of jobs to a good / excellent standard, use quality tools, be polite curtious and professional in everything you do - people respond to that in a positive way.
I win a lot of jobs just on the back of the way I present my actual estimate for the job. People are amazed by the way it is all laid out and the professional way it is presented to them. Little things like this actually MATTER !
Great content as always and all you would be "handymen" of the future should take note of the advice offered !
Recently retired from corporate world and always loved repairing homes. I am following your advice handy man. Let’s Roll!
Billy Bob, laughing... So true. One day I'm going to write a book & title it,
"Things Handymen Did to My House!" (And dedicate it to you :)
Thank you for all the great information and suggestion on the tips for being a better handyman. Especially the LLC info and commercial insurance. 👍🏽
Thanks for what you do. Started like you. Today business is more than just a handyman business. its a relationship business too.
This is so true, outside of the drinking problem lol you describe me and my “business” in its earliest stages... I learned that the way people perceive you is the way they believe you, so in order to be taken more serious and ultimately command more income I had to stop being “handy” and start being PROFESSIONAL.
This is 💯 % spot on .... every single part of this video is exactly right
LOVED it! This is what people want to see!
Thanks for the great content! Please continue sharing the knowledge.
Awesome work and info. Love watching your videos. I've learned so much
My friend with a lawn service told us once that from his residential development where he lived he drove by a commercial business on the corner at least 2x each day. He decided to bid them. The lady said this happens all the time, people asking to mow, and lets cut to the chase, I need to see $1m in Liability coverage. He joked his agent won't reduce his $2m Policy, lol. She was genuinely surprised that FINALLY someone was professional.
Please do more of these just started my business and really want all the information I can get.
As a homeowner, a handyman is a lot more useful. I need someone who is not locked in to one trade. I call an electrician, but he cant patch the drywall he cut in to, that guy is useless. Too many people in the trades refuse to work outside their specialty. A handyman is a generalist who can do a good job at a lot of things.
Spot on
They are called specialist for a reason. If that’s the case, a general doctor is more useful than a specialty doctor.. which isn’t the case. Let the pros do what they specialize in. That’s always going to give you the best results.
@@SpideyRowdy but if adequate results are enough, you don't want to pay for the best results. sure, in a perfect world I would want perfect in everything, but that would also mean I would pay my year´s salary to this guy or a team of guys to make perfect work with the best material. it's like instead of just fast fixing your 100 dollars washing machine with a thing, so it works for few years again, they replace it with the most expensive washing machine on the planet and charge an extra premium for the installation and renovate your whole houses pipeline just for that new machine.
sure, I let dentists take care of my teeth, not a general nurse, she literally does not know anything about fixing teeths except that if your tooth aches, she refers you to a dentist.
but I also ask just a reception girl for a free cup of water and aspirin for a headache, not a brain surgeon team to mess up my brain with a million-dollar open brain surgery so I literally cannot ever have a headache again.
great video as always, thanks for all the good tips you selflessly share, and I started a home repair company, I look forward to your next video and all your tips
Another good video! Listen to the Handyman folks! He’s got solid advice!
Great topic and very helpful. I've got a woodworking business, and I also have a separate account in a different bank, insurance, website, etc. Good advice
Thank you for this encouragement ❤
Very true and point blank facts. Good video
Yeah this series is going to be good.
Unfortunately i did register my business with handyman. I do pretty much the same work as you handyman. I mostly work on referrals but I'm still building more customer base with new unvetted customers. With handyman in my business name I always get the look of. Oh geez this guy looks clean and isn't drunk so he must be to expensive. I do wish I had put more thought into my business name but the more referral business that comes my way it's maturing less and less. Great video
Great “words of wisdom” from the Handyman👍🏻
Just like any business... Have seen horrible “Handymen” & GREAT “Handymen”; & same goes with “Professionals”.
Have been called into a home that was “fixed” by handymen & professionals that had no idea what they were doing & got in over their heads. So, don’t dismiss a person that is a “Handyman” just on the name/title alone; always do your homework & check out last jobs, ask for some references from previous work that are willing to talk, & research them. This goes for the Pros as well. Just because they are a “professional contractor” doesn’t make them necessarily “better”, etc....
I’d say, before you fork over your hard earned money to ANYONE working on your home/project, check [them] or [their] company out. You might be surprised, & just might save yourself a headache later on.
Cheers✌🏼
Keep up the great work "Handyman"
I hung on to every word. I don't have the stomach to have my on business. But i love watching your videos. Big fan.
This is an important & helpful topic. Always wondered whether you marketed yourself as something more fanciful than a mere handyman. I've taken a lot of queues from you in getting my own business going over the last 22 months. I deliberately chose to use "Handyman Services" in my business name because the initial focus was on gaining lots of customers and experience and also because it's particularly well suited for my regional demographic. On those rare occasions when I encounter handyman stigma, I take the opportunity to either sell myself or weed out a cheapskate budget wanker that I probably don't need as a customer anyway. All things considered, I am still likely to change legal structure and tweak my branding as the business continues to evolve. Thanks for all your videos.
"I take the opportunity to either sell myself or weed"... two of the most time honoured industries :P
Great introduction video to the business. I don't like to call myself a handyman because of the stereo type image. I'm a remodeling and repair specialist because I go in and professionally solve home repair problems for customers.
Might have a drinking problem. How did you say that without laughing??
I edited that part out.
MASSIVE masterpiece video!!!
I love the content please keep it coming
The two dislikes are from
Bill
& Bob
Love your channels man. Just started a property preservation business. I learn alot from your channel. Perfect amount of smart@ss comments lol.
Great advice as always, but there is one big glaring problem, at least for me and my area. You cant get liability insurance without a license. And as you said, the insurance company will audit you to ensure you are working within your insurance limits. The handyman license that is avaiable to me is so pathetic in its scope that it would be impossible to make a living doing only what it covers.
The only and i mean the only way to be a handyman in my area legally is to be a fully fledged general contractor. Actually, that wont even cover it, as a GC cant legally touch an outlet or a toilet as far as i know.
Its insane. If you want to be legal and insured you flat out cant be a handyman in FL.
Seems like I’m on the right track. Glad you’ve put this up though, there’s a lot of shady people in this industry that gives us a bad name.
Good morning sir. I am a novice at best in carpentry. I need to replace my outside deck stairs which are wood. It is 11 stairs/treads. What is the best approach in doing them myself. I thought about using the string that is in the best condition and using it as a template. What do you suggest? Thank you
I have everything except the insurance because i did not now which one to do. Im in Massachusetts do you know which one is good to do? What level?
I'm a handyman, but only on my own home and sometimes, that's scary. The house fights me everything I do.
Great job.
In my county you have to have a license, insurance, and be registered with the state. Plus can't do electrical Or jobs over 1000.00
I was forced to become my own handyman cause had no cash to pay someone to do my repairs, only time I was in over my head was when I had to jack up posts that needed new concrete footers for a 36X 55 barn.
My business is called
Doubble R Maintenance. I am a general contractor by my license. And I have business insurance. I still get called for minor repairs. And people cal me a " handyman" I don't mind. Because I enjoy putting checks in the bank and I even accept credit and debit cards
Went to school for electrical residential. Worked as a carpenter in the field for 20 years. Plastering 1 year. Trim plumbing many years. Hold shit tons of insurance. Gen liability, work comp, licensing, taxes , state certified building contractor. Pain in the arse but I am my own boss and set my own schedule. Etc etc etc. Accountant for books and am an s corp. One customer said you are not a handyman you are a professional carpenter. And her husband asked how do you know all this stuff.
Great video!
Great video man
I'm a handyman and I used to have a big drinking problem.
please do more videos on this!!!!!
So, wait a minute...do I call myself a handyman? Or something else? I'm that side hustle guy, fixing my house.
Nah man, the real steps are as follows:
1. Show up to your appointments.
2. Be sober/ clean/ respectful.
3. Know how the F%@# to do the thing you're hired to do.
Lol, you described me perfectly except for the fact that I don't drink, lol...
Great
The title Handyman is really a perfect description of what we can do.But, like many other words the definition has changed; unfortunately
Does the NH mean your from New Hampshire?
If your in construction you know that it doesn’t matter if you are an electrician, a carpenter, a plumber or a handyman because we are all equally hacks. Be a handyman and make money dont let ego or anyone else tell you what to do. Just take pride in what you do and the rest will follow.
I'm "Handi Man"
"Up up and awaaaaaaaay"
2:40 No certs or contractor licenses for a “handyman”; no insurance and don’t need to pay taxes. Still likely must have a business lic of some kind tho..
*Really good info here-you NEED to re-review this later*
5:25 You need to get registered as an LLC w/ the state; recommends a “S” corp later..
6:20 Most handyman services work for cash
7:00 “I’ve never had a customer ask for my insurance”; $1300 per yr for decent ins.
I have all that and working on my contractor license. Would like to hear why to have the buisness account separate.
Should I drop handyman out of my business? I've had success with a professional handyman business but I wonder if changing the name will hurt my business. Naming it "home improvements" or just "construction co." may have some people passing on me for the smaller work but I agree it may not command a higher price.
If it is working don't change it.
I labeled mine services.
Since I'm not really looking for big projects.
Home repairs.
Dude you nailed this video everything you said couldn't be more true. Would love to see more content on this
So i live in Oregon and to be a handyman that makes more the 2500 a year you have to have your ccb. I was thinking maybe you did too becuse i saw you wearing a timbers soccer coat. I wish it was more lax like that here.
Handyman, I have a question re. toilet repairs. Question: what would you do, or recommend, if we showed up to a job for a "leaking toilet, or running toilet" and the toilet was filled with *brown* water and feces? Would you- walk, call a drain cleaning business, or would you do whatever to empty the poop, et al? I'm not trying to be gross but when thinking about doing toilet repairs, well- I managed 10 rentals and saw what can and does happen. Your feedback, please. Thanks.
Plumbers deal with sh*t every day. Take a photo with your camera, clean it yourself and charge an extra $200 for the pleasure. Before you got the the call, let them know the loo must be clean or it will cost extra. Generally speaking, poo is not hazardous... it just hurts your ego.
I have been a handyman for about 18 years now. I put out business cards the first 2 years. Now work off word of mouth. I still have customers that do not like that I give receipts. Anywhere from $50-$4,000 they don’t like it. But they still keep on calling.
Im semi disabled bad feet , nothing works from the knees down but i still can do a lot if i can sit a lot, i cant make but so much extra money or i will get in trouble, i had a contractors lic insurance llc all that shit before i got sick ,this is why i work like i do now all under the table mainly to have something to do, i may not do any jobs for months then boom i have 3 . i just did 900 sq ft of hardwood flooring it about killed me the first 2 days i made about 1800 bucks and i worked about 5-6 hours a day and it took me about 5 days
It's a minor thing, but I would always choose a credit union over a bank unless you have a specific reason to choose a bank. Most credit unions are not out to get you and the sad reality is that's not true for most big Banks
Great info. Keep. them coming handyman
MASSIVE Masterpiece Ceiling
Please refer the lowly handymen to the insurance company you're using. I'd love to get my hands on cheaper insurance
Why separate banks for business and personal banking? I have all my customers write checks to my business name, deposit into my business account and transfer my living expenses to my personal. Same bank.
That is some risky business right there. I will discuss why in a future business.
What is the best name for my “handyman” business? Something with craftsman in the title, just Forbes Home Repair, or something else?
Why do I need a different bank?
A handyman also known as a handyperson in today's lingo is a person who can do Odd Jobs.
Can I ask then, what do you call yourself? Say someone was to lookup in the yellow pages , what is your business under?
I only work on referrals I don't exist anywhere except in word of mouth. I am a remodel contractor but the word of mouth is I am a guy that do do just about anything.
The Handyman Business yea I remember you saying that you only work of referrals but yea that’s what I was getting at haha , so you’re what we call in Australia a Jack of all trades lol
In so many words you nailed it Handyman - generally 'handyman work' means unspecialized, nonprofessional work, often labor intensive, and "affordable" which is just another word for cheap. They are jacks of all trades and masters of none, and you can avoid paying them the big bucks and assume you may get a lesser quality of work than say a professional in any given trade. There may be a deal to be had if it is an experienced guy that's learned a few things over the years but I wouldn't count on top shelf quality. Handymen or maintenance crews that throw paint on apartment walls, snake a sink, and replace a light bulb or air filter but are probably complete hacks when it comes to a full remodel that involves several skills that have any kind of code compliance. For example, a bathroom remodel can dive into electrical, plumbing, tiling, framing, window and door installation...it's not likely an off the street handyman will be licensed in any of this kind of work. That's not to say he can't pick up a book and read BUT if you smell alcohol on his breath I wouldn't bet much on his attention to detail and code compliance. How much do you want a floor flooded with water, tiles popping up and leaking through the floor, a small electrical fire? Not to mention the dash and dine mentality of some handymen/contractor hacks that take your money and run without completing the work. Having proper paperwork to back up your claim as a business person will go a LONG way in proving your legitimacy as a business and as a trusted partner. Once you establish a legal entity, you have some legal protections (isolation between YOUR assets and the business) as well as protections that insurance offers. Without having an LLC (or some form of a legal entity) and liability insurance it's like driving a car without a license and insurance; you might get by without it but the first incident and you are totally screwed and it can cost you a fortune in legal fees alone.
I’m in Portland too. You a lake Oswego west linn kinda guy? Since, you know you make so much money and charge so much.
Etienne C. For some reason I’m starting to think he is in Michigan. 🧐🤔
Step 1) be handy
Step 2) be a man
Step 3) be a handyman... bahahahaha
Alternatively: give handies to a man
Can anyone add anything to why to keep business and personal accounts at seperate banks? Obviously I know keeping actual accounts separated, but why at completely different banks? To help with self-control with paying yourself? To not destroy a relationship with your personal bank if something happens to the business?
The risk is just too great to run into problems. Anytime you might feel inclined to transfer funds to cover whatever emergency you have would be an example of unreported income.
😁
so what was your income during the recession period?
When I was starting my business. I was single and lived on a sailboat 6 months out of the year. Times have changed so much It has been 11 years. There are so many easy ways to get work and stay busy. I get a phone call every week from Amazon asking me to be an installer for their products. I only made around $30,000 when I started I was only working a 6 months though.
What if you're a drinking man with a handy problem?
I can get LLC without a license in California?
You can't wipe your own ass with out a license in California.
@@TheHandymanBusiness CLB got me in a sting a year ago. Hasn't slowed me down at all. I got a lawyer. He asked if I could paint his new office, stain his office door for exchange of his service. I refuse to get a license. I have plenty of customers and to keep busy. When I do get invited to a sting (every 6 months) I tell them to wipe my ass for me and leave.
Its crazy they they are spending money on busting hardworking people. At least you have nice weather.
I call myself a handyman and have never had a dirty look. Deal with it.
But how do you get jobs when you are starting up? I don't have anything at the moment and have no clue about anything on how to get started. Don't you have a video on "How to get started as a Handyman?" I downloaded Jobber but that just manages quotes and the business not how to get and secure jobs. Do I use "Nextdoor" and just throw it out there, "If anyone is looking for a handyman to fix stuff or install stuff, I'm available." Seriously, there is a lot of new development in my area with homes being built by the truckloads (for some reason) and you said people want something more than these "spec'ed" home features and you went in and upgraded parts of peoples homes and what? Did that generate leads for you and do you go out and search for jobs? Do you get calls for jobs? Do they hit you up on some app for work? Do you use Angie's List, Taskrabbit, or Thumbtack? HOW DOES ONE GET JOBS?
Its really hard to see letting the Dept of Making Things Suck run you as a goal to success, lol. I do understand your point, it just sounds like letting leeches suck on you for success.
Damn handyman... I’m a handyman! 😓
I am a weekend drinker, should I be stepping up my game, to be more stereotypical?
You need to be a day drinker. Have a good buzz on the job.
@@TheHandymanBusiness LOLOL
#1 should be “make wlogs”.
Slight drinking problem!!!!!
I never said anything was wrong with it. 🍺🍺🍺😁
@@TheHandymanBusiness Me either!!!!
Yes... The handyman name sucks!
I used the name because my kids made it up....
I did start off with insurance and certificate..
But lots of people ask.. "the quality of work you do doesn't fit handyman"
But I just wanted to do this alone (sometimes use help).. but seems I never have small enough jobs to do myself.
But I understand what you mean.. and after a year or so more.. I am changing the name.. (I just spent $1200 on shirts,long sleeve and hoodies)... When they wear out, name changes
Handyman probably also dont have safety squints or high end safety socks.
LOL.
Hey Handyman why keep your business money in a different bank?
You don't want to risk your bank shutting down your personal accounts if your business runs into trouble. Also, having business and personal accounts in the same place can make things a little murky if the taxman comes a knockin. Taxman never gives you the benefit of the doubt :)
$100,000 as a handyman and no TAXES suck the government.
Oh the "WOKE" left have not gotten to the compound word "handyman" yet? and try to change it to handyperson or something? Anyhow handyman I thought was just a word describing a man who is handy able to do many various projects, fixing, doing, creating even. Just some are better skilled or experienced than other
By the way love you vid thank you for it!