How Much Do I Make Per Hour | Contracts | THE HANDYMAN BUSINESS

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  • Опубликовано: 4 дек 2019
  • Follow me now on / the_hand_e_man Ask your questions below and I will answer them in another video. Multi tool blades are on sale Only $.80 per blade amzn.to/2ORvysC
    #business #moneyadvice #earlyretirement

Комментарии • 258

  • @ryandallavia
    @ryandallavia 4 года назад +50

    It made me chuckle when you said “sometimes you work for $2/hr sometimes $500”. A lot of people that work W2 jobs just wouldn’t be able to wrap their head around that. Last year I did a large renovation that was grossly under bid. I wanted the job because I knew a large local real estate company was behind it. I worked 80 hours a week easy for four weeks to finish that job. After the job my rough calculations said that my hourly rate was anywhere between $2 and $9 dollars an hour. Since then that one “loss leader” has resulted in literally hundreds of thousands of dollars in sales from that same company and the creation of four new employees for my still growing business. You said it handyman...growing a successful business is all about growing solid business relationships. That trust will last a lifetime.

    • @ellismedavoy7314
      @ellismedavoy7314 4 года назад

      As a salaried IT employee I have worked for less than a McDonalds employee some years. Divide salary by hours worked. Seriously. They really abuse the H1B scab labor program so they can work you as hard as they want. They can always replace you with an H1B.

    • @colour2690
      @colour2690 3 года назад

      Nice Video clip! Excuse me for the intrusion, I would love your initial thoughts. Have you ever tried - Hanmila Glorious Doshmaker (search on google)? It is an awesome one of a kind product for discovering the trick to have a successful handyman business minus the hard work. Ive heard some super things about it and my work buddy got excellent success with it.

  • @carpentrylover145
    @carpentrylover145 4 года назад +71

    I'm almost 55 and still working 45-50 hours a week. Still love it. Don't miss out on life now just to retire early, you'll just get bored anyways. Enjoy your free time and family while you can. Just my 2cents

    • @MyDIYAdventures
      @MyDIYAdventures 4 года назад +3

      Well said! A lot of people work 7 days a week trying to save money for retirement and miss out on vacationing with their family...your kids are only young once!

    • @carpentrylover145
      @carpentrylover145 4 года назад +2

      @@MyDIYAdventures Absolutely true. Cats in the cradle...🎶

    • @jananusic208
      @jananusic208 4 года назад

      Cheers for the video content! Forgive me for butting in, I would appreciate your thoughts. Have you researched - Fiyiden Seyatthew Blaster (just google it)? It is a great one of a kind guide for starting a laptop repair business minus the headache. Ive heard some interesting things about it and my good mate called Gray at very last got cool success with it.

    • @daniloserra6398
      @daniloserra6398 4 года назад

      Kudos for the Video! Sorry for the intrusion, I would appreciate your opinion. Have you ever tried - Hanmila Glorious Doshmaker (search on google)? It is a great exclusive guide for discovering the trick to have a successful handyman business minus the hard work. Ive heard some super things about it and my close friend Aubrey got excellent success with it.

    • @gillyventura
      @gillyventura 3 года назад

      Nice Video! Apologies for the intrusion, I would appreciate your thoughts. Have you researched - Hanmila Glorious Doshmaker (do a google search)? It is a smashing one off product for discovering the trick to have a successful handyman business minus the hard work. Ive heard some pretty good things about it and my work buddy at very last got great success with it.

  • @caesarsandoval3043
    @caesarsandoval3043 4 года назад +6

    Wow! I swear I grow my business just by listening to you talk and applying it to life! U The Man Handyman!!

  • @hunters0922
    @hunters0922 4 года назад +3

    Thank you for these videos. I love your honesty and your willingness to see people want to succeed.

  • @capt.bobroemer6322
    @capt.bobroemer6322 4 года назад +17

    From Hometown Handyman and Locksmith: promise small, deliver big.

  • @wylian84
    @wylian84 4 года назад +1

    You are the man!
    Thanks for the video.
    Changing the employee mindset is very difficult. I'm still working on it.

  • @1980JPA
    @1980JPA 4 года назад +2

    I am the one you described. I've worked for a successful kitchen and bath remodeler for years and think it's time to go out on my own. I love this channel because you cover my actual concerns. the job itself is not problem. Actually producing quality work for the customer, gaining customer's trust through my demeanor, and selling a job is no problem for me. it's all the actual business issues such as the ones you cover like deposits, contracts, and the like that I'm concerned about. I also think similarly to you in many of the "business is business" areas like not marking up of materials and some other issues that seem a little... idk kinda sleazy. thanks so much for being straightforward and candid about how you've operated your successful busines. much of the knowledge that I've gained from your vids have either reassured me that I'm on the right track and have the right mentality, or have straightened me out on areas of question. I am 39 years old and outright own everything that I have to with no debt, but have no real nest egg to speak of, so, it's time to leave the employee mindset. thank you.

  • @918scott4
    @918scott4 4 года назад +1

    End of video... BEST advice ever! You my friend are wise and those who want to follow in your footsteps need to listen with mind open.

  • @kerryweishaupt3359
    @kerryweishaupt3359 4 года назад

    Really enjoy this channel, thank you for your insight. Scope of work, contracts, and goals from this video were encouraging and got me thinking. Thank you for your consistency.

  • @sureshot311
    @sureshot311 4 года назад

    I think you just went from the #1 channel, to the #1 channel. Congrats, Handyman. Keep posting those videos!

  • @jeffdeavers1142
    @jeffdeavers1142 4 года назад +10

    thanks handyman, these types of videos are very valuable! I am trying to get out of that employee mindset you touched on. plan for the bigger picture

  • @NITZO83
    @NITZO83 4 года назад +4

    I love your videos! You speak so much truth. I own a home improvement business and my customers are just like yours. I dont advertise at all. All of my business is by word of mouth. My work speaks for itself. It's like I'm listening to myself speak about my business. Lol kinda weird. But in a good way. Stay handy!

  • @Longeno55
    @Longeno55 4 года назад +1

    Oh, now it’s not just the world it’s the universe? Wow! Your positive attitude is only surpassed by your enthusiasm.
    I got to respect that!

  • @mikemetz82
    @mikemetz82 4 года назад +5

    Amazing this info is free. Pay attention all you youngsters!

  • @lifechanges4097
    @lifechanges4097 3 года назад

    Thank you!!! Love all of your videos , very informative!!!

  • @isaicisneros1606
    @isaicisneros1606 4 года назад +5

    I’m blessed to be working for a honest, caring, and dependable general contractor who takes the time to do things right and teach his employees the ins and outs of the business and how to do things correctly. I cannot wait to do the same in my business.

    • @stillamitchinmybook6320
      @stillamitchinmybook6320 4 года назад +1

      I've worked for the complete opposite the dude that taught me everything was a horrible person and he tried to get over on me and everyone else every which way he could always told myself I would never be like that if I ever started my own business

  • @justinreilly4111
    @justinreilly4111 4 года назад

    great video. im only 5 months in on my own company and there is alot of things i still need to learn. I appreciate the time you spend on these videos as it helps me greatly and im sure it helps others as well. I strongly believe mentorship is more valuable than money and i am greatful for those who are willing to share.

  • @MyDIYAdventures
    @MyDIYAdventures 4 года назад +12

    Great video! I’m 44, I wanna be out of the day to day construction by 52-ish...I plan on going full time with rental property by then.

  • @deanintheg
    @deanintheg 4 года назад +14

    first iv heard of deposits being immoral, good way to get screwed. Its a quickly learned lesson. I do have clients who iv known for years, them I wave the deposit for.

    • @cl5473
      @cl5473 4 года назад +1

      Exactly, not new clients.

  • @lockwooddave
    @lockwooddave 4 года назад +30

    Every video I think I would get along great with this guy. Then, I realize with all his responsibilities, he doesn't have time to hangout with his shadow.

  • @ujhomeimprovements
    @ujhomeimprovements 4 года назад

    Congratulations on that number 1 spot. I'm a long time subscriber and commenter.

  • @jcon6115
    @jcon6115 3 года назад +3

    This video hits home for me. I run my business the same way as you and have always been paid and never been in court. I will say there’s people I have worked for that I won’t work for again though. Lol

  • @tonycatalano4338
    @tonycatalano4338 4 года назад +27

    Last week I gave an estimate for repairing a flood damaged basement. While writing the estimate, I asked myself WWHD (What Would Handyman Do?) I tacked on an extra thousand for no reason at all.....and got the job! Thank you sir, I’m officially indebted to you.

    • @TheHandymanBusiness
      @TheHandymanBusiness  4 года назад +1

      That is awesome.

    • @devonwainstein9188
      @devonwainstein9188 2 года назад +1

      What a scam. No reason at all????? LOL .we add for unforseen circumstance, changes in the condition....not for no reason you scab

    • @tonycatalano4338
      @tonycatalano4338 2 года назад +1

      @@devonwainstein9188 Do you know how when Uber does surge pricing. It’s kind of like that

  • @gerrymcintosh4477
    @gerrymcintosh4477 4 года назад +1

    Many excellent points. Great channel. Love your videos. Cheers from Canada.

  • @brianbreuer3261
    @brianbreuer3261 4 года назад

    Love your stuff glad I can help you be #1.

  • @EastRiverHomestead
    @EastRiverHomestead 4 года назад

    Great video, as usual! (Where is my spoon?) I, too, have never had a bad experience in 20 years. I am a word-of-mouth as well. I think you just get an all-around better outcome when you are in a closed group and everyone minds their P's&Q's among their peers. Plus, they always seem to want to outdo each other which is great for me... money wise.

  • @Columbus1152
    @Columbus1152 3 года назад

    Good take on the remodeling business, my son is on his own and I'd say his model is pretty similar to the handyman's. The only thing I'd say is, you have to know your direct and indirect expenses and come up with an hourly rate to use when you quote estimates.

  • @LarsEelke
    @LarsEelke 2 года назад

    Hey man, great to see someone across the ocean who runs his business exactly like me 🙂 Keep going strong

  • @Crooks103
    @Crooks103 4 года назад

    I am listening to this, second video of yours. Absolutely fantastic information for anyone looking to go self employed.

  • @DanielMartinez-ek4ou
    @DanielMartinez-ek4ou 3 года назад

    Im just goin to say thiss!! You make a lot sense my brother , thanks for teaching mee ,salud from indianapolis

  • @dustintucci2606
    @dustintucci2606 4 года назад +10

    Deposits secure the time and minimize your risk with materials - I have clients who I have had for a while that I don't ask for deposits for anymore who will send me a deposit through google pay or venmo just to secure that I don't double book a week or month. Also I have had people who run out of money mid project and without getting a deposit I would have been out time and materials instead of just time.

  • @robkaiser1047
    @robkaiser1047 4 года назад

    Appreciate the heck out of you.

  • @rezolution6272
    @rezolution6272 4 года назад +14

    I have made anywhere from 5.00 an hour on a bad bid to 367.00 an hour when everything went right. I have made more money working alone than I did with a crew.

    • @royallclark6331
      @royallclark6331 4 года назад +2

      Been there done that!! LOL Don't want any employees to fuss over.

  • @reallybadaim118
    @reallybadaim118 4 года назад +6

    You're blessed to have this customer base. Buzz word around this channel should be "your mileage may vary" because I've seen small operators get worked over by customers.
    I sat on a jury of a major female GC that did high-end work. A single very wealthy woman wanted a ton of work done to her house what's the GC was up for. But I believe she had a schedule of payments that had to be met.
    Well the rich Lady started making dozens of changes. turns out her ex-husband who set her up with a trust fund decided to get involved and wanted to know what she was spending all this money on.
    So work stop then he cut her off her money now the GC is sitting in holding all this these invoices and employees sitting around.
    The jury award of the GC everything she wanted including the kitchen sink. But she was able to weather that and stay busy. But I could not imagine having someone do that to me.

  • @donkitterman1940
    @donkitterman1940 4 года назад

    I've been thinking about what you said about "employees" think about an hourly rate. You are absolutely correct. I have had that mind set since I quit my corporate gig 2 years ago to start a "Handyman" business. I did to compare my new $ to my former $. I know I'm worth more than my former rate because my former employer was making money off of me, as they should. Thanks for helping me have a different mindset.

  • @kzhowell116
    @kzhowell116 4 года назад +1

    On a project that has significant material costs I get a deposit before I order material. I also have a written scope outlining the specific work and detailing things like finishes and hardware. This mitigates my potential losses from backouts and makes sure I don't forget some small item that the client is expecting.

  • @Connr_-vj7iv
    @Connr_-vj7iv 4 года назад

    Since seeing your dewalt tool it made me wanna ask if you have heard anything good about their new atomic line of tools good or bad? I was thinking of getting their multi tool that’s on sale! Thanks great video

  • @RallEeyeRedact
    @RallEeyeRedact 4 года назад +1

    No contract, no deposit?! Wow. That’s great that you can work like that. My customer base isn’t like that yet. That’s great that you can do that.

  • @defidad5569
    @defidad5569 4 года назад

    What strategies do you and possibly general industry are used to do detailed and quick estimates for a variety of jobs???
    Keep up the great work and content!
    Thanks!

  • @Corey_Fox
    @Corey_Fox Год назад

    I just found your channel and I’m loving the message. I’m 32, just now seeing that bigger picture. I’ve been working in the trades my whole life, carpenter, mechanic, welder, general get it done type of person. I’ve been working side jobs for the last few years, actually made and extra $750 this week with side work and I’m ready for that freedom that comes with self employment. Thank you for the advice and the positivity.

  • @Aepek
    @Aepek 4 года назад +1

    3:58 Well darn it, you’ve got the “marketing” & “RUclips channel” stuff down pretty well. Keeping us hanging w/ more questions & a “cliff hanger”; so to speak.....of what’s TO COME🤣
    Can’t fault you for that, AND will be there watching; as enjoy your channels
    My Uncle had printing business in Ohio, huge, that started in the 40-50s....& until the day he died in the late 2000s; he always entered into a contract w/ a “Handshake”....🙂
    ✌🏼

    • @TheHandymanBusiness
      @TheHandymanBusiness  4 года назад +1

      One of my business mentors owned a printing press company. He started in Ohio too. He eventually took the printing presses world wide. Sold the company to Japan I think. He died not to long ago aortic aneurysm. He started out sweeping a broom.

    • @Aepek
      @Aepek 4 года назад

      The Handyman Business Sorry to hear about your business partner & mentor. My Uncle’s Printing company (& press etc....) was in Cleveland, OH. Great guy w/ heart of gold. He ended up dying from colon cancer; but he had the best stories from his trips everywhere & meeting/dealing w/ all different “types” of ppl. Regardless of their income, he treated them all as millionaires & started, then ended each deal w/ a handshake. Don’t meat “ppl” like that much anymore; & from what I gather, you totally understand what I mean 😉 Heck, my Uncle did very well, he always drove his 1988 Ford Crown Victoria car😅 & you would always find him in the “shop” floor when he was at the company.....never sitting around in the offices.
      Happy Christmas & Appreciate the reply🙏🏼😊

  • @tomfleming7553
    @tomfleming7553 2 года назад

    As a long time owner of my own business - you are great!! Totally telling it like it is and love your advice to those getting into it. The 'grey areas' --- yep!
    Question - do your customers watch your channel(s) and have you ever gotten grief from them about $250 for a ceiling fan for instance?

  • @jmcenterprises9591
    @jmcenterprises9591 4 года назад

    Really enjoyed this one, thanks

  • @fordguyaj5581
    @fordguyaj5581 4 года назад

    What do you guys that operate your own business do for health insurance? And do you have insurance that covers your work on people's property? Like i always hear bonded and insured, but not sure exactly what that means?
    I recently got a run down beat up house cheap and am renovating it to be a rental. But I want to do this stuff full time and maybe just keep stacking up rentals. But I'm scared to quit my current job that's $80k - 85k/yr and good benefits. But not sure that I can make good enough money doing handyman work. Did u guys have to make a leap and leave a job and start yourself?

  • @theneighborhoodhandyman7564
    @theneighborhoodhandyman7564 4 года назад +1

    Bro! Best in the world!

  • @GuiltyMalice
    @GuiltyMalice 4 года назад +7

    Hey Handyman, you’re awesome. I appreciate all the knowledge, info and experience you share. I’m new at the whole business and client relations aspect of the job. I’ve been doing this work my entire life and I love what I do. I recently went out on my own. I figured it was time and that I had enough experience, talent and speed with efficiency, that I could. So far it’s been working out for me but there are times where I continuously lose jobs and I’m having a hard time keeping my head above water. I’ve watched many of your videos but not all. I don’t know if you’ve done this before but if you can and you’re interested in sharing I’d love to see a video on how you write up the estimates for your clients as well as quotes and invoices and anything in that category you may do or deem necessary. I feel like if I were to be able to professionally write up an estimate etc I would be able to better serve and earn the trust of potential clients. Also when do you write up the estimates? Do you ever give prices up front or do you check out the jobs and note the info needed to then write it up later and email the client the written estimate. I appreciate any info you can share Handyman. Thanks again.

    • @jn3005
      @jn3005 4 года назад +1

      GuiltyMalice I recommend using an app like housecall pro or home advisor. Pro only cost $19-$40 per month depending on what services you get. I use it for my lawn service and my appliance repair services. Rasy to set up and creates great quotes and invoices and has an option to process credit cards. Home advisor is alot more but will point customers to you alot better.

    • @GuiltyMalice
      @GuiltyMalice 4 года назад

      John Numbers thanks man I’ll look into that.

  • @tmjones7081
    @tmjones7081 4 года назад

    Hey dude. Heres a video or quick topic idea you might add to your video material. "Are there rules to stepping on or over a homeowners furniture (couch, end table, ect.)when moving it is more work than the the quick caulk or touch up area."? Thanks for the daily grind videos.

  • @altituderemodelingllc6393
    @altituderemodelingllc6393 4 года назад

    One thing to consider when it comes to signed contracts is certain states actually require a written contract for all contracting work. Our Registrar of Contractors requires us to have a written contract that we can produce if they stop by our job site which happens from time to time. We are also required to have key elements in our contracts that they look for. So while I agree long time customers may not require a contract due to the relationship you may have a legal obligation according to your state. I only mention this because I got dinged once for not having required information in a contract once and you better believe that will never happen again. Lots of good info otherwise, keep up the good work.

  • @jesterraj
    @jesterraj 4 года назад

    Great stuff!!

  • @David7pm
    @David7pm 4 года назад

    Thank you, Handyman!

  • @keitho77
    @keitho77 4 года назад +1

    Hey Handman. What is your opinion on customers who describe the work they want done as a "just small job"?
    I take this as code for "I'm going to pay sweet FA for this work". I don't even quote for these jobs.

  • @hansjensen7823
    @hansjensen7823 4 года назад

    Handyman, what make and length sailboat do you have? Do you use it much?

  • @duncanvlaar8017
    @duncanvlaar8017 4 года назад

    Is the deposit not for expences made prior to start the actual job? The preparation, buying stuff to start and so on?

  • @mtaylor935mt
    @mtaylor935mt 3 года назад

    The technical aspects are the easy part. It’s the business aspect that is the hard part.

  • @jeremyowings6079
    @jeremyowings6079 3 года назад

    Always great content 👌

  • @mikesp1
    @mikesp1 4 года назад

    i fix cars for a living. For a shop and as a side business and so much of what you say crosses over to what i do and what kind of customers i have for my side work

  • @johnnyrottenwood4935
    @johnnyrottenwood4935 2 года назад

    I always get 40 - 50% deposit to lock customers into the schedule. If the job is small, I just use the signed estimate with a line item scope of work instead of a contract but use a three page contract for larger projects. The deposit keeps the correct mindset of seriousness from the customer and peace of mind for me not worrying about cancelation so much. Yes you must refund the deposit if the customer backs out or you will get bad reviews. I get all five star reviews and charge accordingly. I turn down a couple projects a week. Also, I invoke NAHB for quality guidelines in the contract just incase you get an unreasonable customer.

  • @saulgoodman2018
    @saulgoodman2018 4 года назад +3

    Judge Judy taught me to always get contracts for any work you do.
    20 years you could’ve been working for them, they can still screw you and not pay.

  • @oskarbjornstad877
    @oskarbjornstad877 4 года назад

    Thanks for these

  • @ehotto
    @ehotto 4 года назад +2

    Most important question.
    Where did the cutout cow that use to be in the garage go ?!?!

    • @saulgoodman2018
      @saulgoodman2018 4 года назад

      ehotto I was just thinking that yesterday. And wondering what happened to that cow.

  • @drewdordan4641
    @drewdordan4641 4 года назад +1

    i take deposits for the sole reason that it makes the customer feel like they have skin in the game. if i book a job with someone, I'm reserving time on my calendar for them that i otherwise could be reserving for someone else. this is only for bigger jobs but i feel it reduces the risk of having someone back out last minute, especially if I'm buying all materials. id rather not be stuck holding the bag with all these purchased materials and a customer decides to back out last minute. however i get your point of if you keep the deposit if they back out, you might lose that customer for life, but I've never had someone back out on a job so i guess we'll see what happens when the time comes.

  • @michaelpenn101
    @michaelpenn101 4 года назад

    thanks for your videos they are very helpful and edgucational.

  • @RES_Plumbing-Drain
    @RES_Plumbing-Drain 4 года назад

    Good video Mr Handyman.

  • @handylife22
    @handylife22 4 года назад

    I love the advice! Working for a remodeler, big picture rates, choosing customers wisely. Any advice for working with a remodeler while running your own business and doing your own jobs?

    • @handylife22
      @handylife22 4 года назад

      If I could do a remodel CONFIDENTLY I'd be killing it.

  • @youtubeplumbing
    @youtubeplumbing Год назад

    Choose your customers wisely‼️

  • @essentialjudge2279
    @essentialjudge2279 4 года назад +1

    I do just a scope of work. If they act fishing, like they called me and then want more references contracts coi they get an aggravation fee$$. Take your taxable income and divide it by 2000 hours. That's one work year at 40 hours a week less 2 weeks. What's your number?

  • @dailodai9586
    @dailodai9586 4 года назад

    well said. only if your in the business then you'll know the actual numbers. trade secret per say

  • @smokingcheeba420
    @smokingcheeba420 4 года назад +2

    I dont want to completely get out of construction because of all the free materials I can obtain. You should try kombucha. I switched from Red Bull to Synergy kombucha.

    • @TheHandymanBusiness
      @TheHandymanBusiness  4 года назад

      Looks tasty

    • @smokingcheeba420
      @smokingcheeba420 4 года назад

      @@TheHandymanBusiness their is kinds that are disgusting. The gingerberry is good. 3 bucks at Walmart. Gotta love Wally world.

  • @Homeinspectorsny
    @Homeinspectorsny 4 года назад

    I started taking deposits for my home inspections.I say its non refundable but forward it to the next scheduled inspection.I feel the same way about not keeping a deposit.

  • @bryanoard50
    @bryanoard50 4 года назад +2

    Hey handy man? Can u tell me who has the number 1 handy man channel on RUclips? 😜nice vid. Thank you.

    • @jmlcolorado
      @jmlcolorado 4 года назад

      Bryan Oard it’s the guy who does the vlogs 🤣😂

  • @trevorblue
    @trevorblue 4 года назад +20

    Hourly sucks, homeowners become wannabe project managers, nickels&dimes

    • @royallclark6331
      @royallclark6331 4 года назад +5

      So true! I'm in a job now with one of my old customers that I worked for be for I quit "time and materials" and they are about the only people I still work that way for, and yes... Wanda loves to "micro manage"!! It just makes me work a bit slower... LOL ;)

    • @wylian84
      @wylian84 4 года назад

      I'm on the same boat. For me it's been a nice break, but they do make you work way slower.

  • @deaneng8540
    @deaneng8540 4 года назад

    The number one business channel in the whole universe? Why did you stop there why didn't you just say and all of Heaven and Earth! Thanks for the video buddy.

  • @TheLoobis
    @TheLoobis 4 года назад +1

    10:25 AWWW MAN! What is it! Where do I find out? COM'ON HANDYMAN! THAT'S NOT COOL. LOL

  • @tjsassembly3702
    @tjsassembly3702 4 года назад +2

    Deposits especially for customers under 40 years of age because they are the ones that flake out or nickel and dime

  • @alexbecker9588
    @alexbecker9588 3 года назад

    I have a plumbing company I have no problem getting a deposit from a customer to purchase special equipment like a special order boiler with a return policy that has a restocking fee. I don't want to be out the restocking fee if they back out.

  • @jeremysky7708
    @jeremysky7708 2 года назад

    Gun Slinger I dig it.

  • @Aepek
    @Aepek 4 года назад +3

    Business Secrets & Practices...that No One Will Tell You
    By: The Handyman (Book 1)

  • @youvegottoseethis5615
    @youvegottoseethis5615 4 года назад +2

    Ding ding ding alarm for newbies. Deposits. You must if even a buck. Pay to set down with an Attorney familiar with your line of work. At a minimum learn the five points that describe a legal contract. Remember everything is negotiable. Know that a judge loves documentation. Consider the reality of reality. My best friends wife's friends brother ( that hidden decision influencer) had us all in court over price opinion. My detailed paperwork only got me half my money from a (just to be fair ) judge. From that point on I always used real solid contracts. My story to familiar former customers was " yea, sorry but that's what corporate wants us to do now. Keeps us all safe." Some laughs, handshakes, sign here. Who cares. You should. Pro up.

    • @villagecarpenter2266
      @villagecarpenter2266 4 года назад

      I agree. Never, Never do work without a contract. Always, Always get a deposit at the contract signing. Even if it's only 10% of the job. A contract is a must. I recommend reading the book "Running a successful construction company" by David Gerstel. The book is a bible for the construction business. IMHO.

    • @youvegottoseethis5615
      @youvegottoseethis5615 4 года назад

      village carpenter thanks for you advice too. Maybe that one person out there will get it and skip the hardships of some reality. Another advantage you might agree to is the fact that a deposit conversation with a customer gives the contractor a better perspective on the immediate and future relationship with the customer. If the contractor has overcome objections regarding knowledge or ability or timely matters then the only objection left is maybe price. If the price needs to be reaffirmed as a good value, then the contractor needs to address that issue and ask for the job. The policy of a deposit becomes a non issue. Typically a refundable amount until the start date, the only real initial value of it is, it takes that customer out of the shopping mode and makes them a committing customer. Most people at that point are relieved that shopping is over and dreams are about to come true. I don't understand why many contractors don't talk about money on the first visit before working on a free estimate. Here's an example. " Hello. I'm here to help. I've seen projects like this take three days and cost around 9- 1500 bucks. We, (me and my dog) require a deposit today of 99 bucks, on start day the remaining 40 percent of the project and the balance due on a day specified at the end. I want you to hang on to the last 10 percent until we finally meet and you are completely satisfied. Do you have any objection to a plan like this and any objection to letting me get started a.s.a.p.?" Modifiable but concise. Acknowledge the plan. Cover all terms.Ask for the job. Overcome objections. Ask for the job. Close the deal. At a minimum you have established yourself and your financial policy that included the scary deposit. "The reason I require a deposit Sir/ Madam is the fact that in all fairness, you can expect and will see that I am going to make a 100% commitment to you and your project with my talents and training, qualified help,(my dog), and materials on day one. Would you agree with me that to ask you to meet me half way is reasonable?" Use your own words. Listen for objections to overcome. Get the job signed with a deposit. It ain't a job otherwise.
      Deposit conversation helps the customer know the professional approach of the contractor and helps the contractor qualify that the customer is suitable to become a customer. Only after these type conversations should one offer more free time to give free written advice, free assessments or free estimates. Hopefully someone else is overhearing our conversation V.C. Thanks again for your further advice.

  • @drewdordan4641
    @drewdordan4641 4 года назад

    whats your thought on being a sub for paul davis

  • @1977jmad
    @1977jmad 4 года назад

    Holy shit we are the same age and you make me feel like such a boy. Fuck I started in this game late!

  • @mr.williams7911
    @mr.williams7911 4 года назад

    Do you do roofing?

  • @deaneng8540
    @deaneng8540 4 года назад

    Hey Handyman, here is an idea of a subject "How to avoid terrible clients!" I am learning and worked for a lady who stiffed me because she thought I was running the clock as I was working in a hot, dusty cluttered attic doing her electrical. She had no clue how long it would take to do the electrical and I am not the type of person to cheat someone in anyway whatsoever. She also was a constant dope smoker and had emotional issues. I will avoid this type of client for now on! Also, clients who are near broke.
    What client's do you avoid and what are the warning signs?

  • @leocruz9504
    @leocruz9504 3 года назад

    How do you get all your jobs word to mouth or do you have a company subbing you out work at times I just stated my business 1 year ago but struggle in the winter

  •  Год назад

    Can someone explain me that thing about "grey zone"? It is something about safety in job site or tax evading? I am really curious. :)

  • @BellahWorks
    @BellahWorks 4 года назад +1

    When starting a business what is more important to get first Insurance, business license, or other? Thanks for all the great advice. Your perspective is very unique

    • @evictioncarpentry2628
      @evictioncarpentry2628 4 года назад

      Is this a serious question? Lol. All of it!

    • @ghost2coast296
      @ghost2coast296 4 года назад +1

      Well you'll need a business license to pay your taxes and pull permits, unless you want to have the IRS and local government crawling up your ass in court. If you don't form an LLC and get insured you'll personally be liable for any damages or "damages" to customer property which means they can directly sue you and take your bank account, home, car, anything you personally own of value.
      You'd have to be pretty stupid to not get it all taken care of immediately.
      The only people who are going to hire an unlicensed, uninsured person are probably scummy as hell themselves and you'll have 100x the headache.
      Just get it done properly.

  • @abdcontractingltd
    @abdcontractingltd 3 года назад

    I disagree on not taking deposits, I think its a very important part of a larger renovation ect. It allows you to purchase the startup materials and your first day worked, even if something goes sideways with the customer atleast the materials are covered that you had to run through your accounts at the building supplier ect.

  • @CaponeHomes
    @CaponeHomes 4 года назад

    Awesome video

  • @murphyco1
    @murphyco1 3 года назад

    Update on my last message to you. I’ve been struggling with how to start my business in my new area. I bid my first job based on your video. I made $800 for a bathroom floor repair that took 5 hours and the customer is thrilled. The locals told me that the going rate for “Handymen” is $25/hr! Thanks again for reminding me how to run this business

    • @TheHandymanBusiness
      @TheHandymanBusiness  3 года назад

      Great job!

    • @jheiny1231
      @jheiny1231 2 года назад +1

      25 an hour is what contractors pay there employed handyman. But they usually bid the job trying to charge anywhere between 80 to 120 dollars an hour. So the contractor can profit the rest

    • @RedBeardDevelopment
      @RedBeardDevelopment 10 месяцев назад

      @@jheiny1231somewhat true, contractors have overhead expenses to pay. Insurance, taxes, etc.

  • @Lincoln_Hawk
    @Lincoln_Hawk 4 года назад

    #1 for sure.

  • @Cre8iveRecs
    @Cre8iveRecs 4 года назад

    I dont do deposits, i send invoices every two weeks on agreed hourly based off work needed

  • @wjthehomebuilder
    @wjthehomebuilder 4 года назад +3

    1:14 BINGO!

  • @ssts2013
    @ssts2013 2 года назад

    Absolutely have a contract even if it’s only one page.

  • @xrayded5037
    @xrayded5037 4 года назад +1

    The thing people don’t understand is that we have to pay taxes, insurance, bond, vehicle maintenance, materials, tools, gas, also taking a risk of a job! You charge what you charge or what your worth but the end of the day that’s what we have to pay so we make a lot but then again.....

  • @Christmas-dg5xc
    @Christmas-dg5xc Год назад

    So, when you look back on a previous year, what you get when you take what you netted after expenses and divide it by the number of hours you worked is of no importance, whatsoever?

  • @billysyms5761
    @billysyms5761 3 года назад +1

    "They want it done, they want it done right and they want it done by me". That's how you make it in this business.

  • @jamielaughridge6326
    @jamielaughridge6326 4 года назад +2

    Awe handyman you know we don’t work by the hour. Who does that anymore? Can’t make any money doing that.

  • @lawnman3638
    @lawnman3638 4 года назад

    You should always know your jurly goal so that you k ow what yoyr opportunity cost is for turning down getting a job workibg for the man.

  • @Aaron-cy6pu
    @Aaron-cy6pu 4 года назад

    Sometimes I do a small task for $0 and that leads to $10ks via word of mouth. I’ve spent many many hours analyzing how can I make a customer EXCITED about their experience with my company. Getting business from 100% Referrals should be the goal. Not to mention it’s nice to see the marketing bill go to ZERO.

  • @zackje1
    @zackje1 4 года назад

    What in your experience are the most profitable?

  • @kylezeiger7672
    @kylezeiger7672 4 года назад +3

    I'm early