What does a handyman do?
A handyman uses his/her skills and tools in order to complete a wide range of various jobs, repairs, and/or installations typically around the home.
These tasks can include trade skills and work in repairs and maintenance in both interior and exterior parts of the home/building. The types of jobs a handyman will complete can be described as side work, odds and ends, or honey-do's.
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
We always try to set up fair pricing that represents the quality of work we provide. Of course every job is different, but the base price that's set reflects the hard work and dedication to detail we will put towards the job we are completing. We have done jobs as a flat rate as well as by the hour.
Most jobs do require at least a hour and a half minimum which includes the quote and labor even if the job does not take that long. This will be discussed prior to starting the job if it is applicable. Because of this, it is in the best interest of the customer to combine different jobs that need to be completed.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
First and foremost, we want to get to know your exact needs while getting as much detailed information as we can in order to ensure we can help and are the best fit for you. Then we will find the best process to get those needs met and schedule a time to complete. From there we will negotiate the best price possible and review the job. Once we've agreed on the materials, process, and price we will go to work to get it completed the way you need and expect.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I’ve always been a fix-it type of guy and have been doing this type of work since I was a kid. That led into my teenage years where I did more odds and ends type jobs. From there I have worked and overseen various cabinet shops, worked under other handyman companies, done repairs and resets for commercial stores, installed and built cabinets, and have really fine-tuned my skills in finishing work. I have also worked in customer service so I understand how important communication and listening to the customer can be.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I started doing random jobs as a teenager, jumping in to help my parents around the house and now do these projects on my own home. I also helped family members and their friends all while working with other companies doing the same type of work when I realized I could do this myself and set my own hours!
So after perfecting the skills I've learned, I found that I am able to help others complete projects and get their homes to the level they desire at a cost efficient price and have created my own services company in order to do that.
What types of customers have you worked with?
We’ve worked with a wide range of people! We’ve worked one on one with single home owners, large and small businesses, real estate agents, interior designers, stores in the mall, schools, restaurants, and even Home Depot and Lowes.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
We recently finished helping set up a home with an interior design team to showcase upcoming homes in a new home-build subdivision. We hung curtains, blinds, and artwork, installed various hardware, did wall patching and touch ups, built cabinets and desks, mounted mirrors, steamed linen, and added accents to the walls. Afterwards we pressure washed the home, walkway, and driveway to give it the fresh look that all the construction dust was covering up.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Don't always go with your first quote (try to get 3!), never give money before work has been done, and cheapest is not always best. As most people have learned, you get what you pay for.
Lastly, it’s always important to be detailed and honest about what you’re willing to spend and wanting to have completed within the budget you set.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their projects?
Are they financially able to get this job complete and comfortable with spending the money to do so. Also to have a detailed idea about what they expect and the timeframe they want it done within.