Handyman Service

Handyman services handle a wide variety of home repairs and small projects - fixing drywall, painting, minor plumbing, basic electrical, carpentry, furniture assembly, and general maintenance.

You provide skilled labor, bring tools, and charge hourly ($50-100+) or per project.

Success requires broad skills, problem-solving ability, and professional presentation.

Most handymen specialize to some degree - minor repairs, elderly assistance, rental property turnover, or specific trades.

Startup costs are moderate - quality tools (you likely own many), truck/van, insurance, and marketing.

Building client base happens through referrals, local advertising, platforms like TaskRabbit or Thumbtack, and partnerships with realtors and property managers.

Revenue becomes predictable with regular clients (property managers with multiple properties, elderly homeowners needing ongoing help).

Hourly rates in the $50-100 range make this more profitable than many service businesses.

Challenges include scope creep (projects taking longer than estimated), licensing requirements for certain trades in some states, and competing with specialized contractors.

Success factors include reliability, fair pricing, quality work, and communication.

Many handymen evolve into specialized contractors (remodeling, painting, flooring) as they identify profitable niches.