How NOT to Start or GROW a lawn care business-- BIG MISTAKE!!!

[@2014cwajts71]

I've had a lawn business for 20 years and I'm telling you, this guy knows what he's talking about.

[@yangyeexiong2979]

I'm Asian, I speak broken English but, when I go to work I work, I don't go to talk, I let my work do the talking. I like you brother. I'm going to start a Lawm care next spring, I'm going to need all your help from your KZbin channel. Thanks a lot!

[@lawncarelife]

Thanks for watching the videos. I hope the channel is helpful to you

[@ridethepace6005]

Another way to look at it is, sometimes the people who balk at your price are people you won't be happy with anyway. They nitpick and complain constantly to try to justify not paying you or just because they are miserable people. Whatever the reason might be, I always looked at that as a way to pass off a burden onto my competitor who was willing to lowball the job. let it be his headache and you focus on a better grade of customer.

[@lawncarelife]

I agree that sometimes the people who are looking for a low price turn out not to be very good customers. That will often cancel for a lower price or if they just don't want to spend the money any longer

[@bigbensarrowheadchannel2739]

I really appreciate your videos. I just got my own lawn treatment and pest control company rolling a month ago. Your wisdom is priceless. Thanks bro

[@lawncarelife]

There is a lot to learn about the chemical side of lawn care. Hopefully I can provide some helpful info. Best wishes to you in your business

[@PrimoLandscaping]

Couldn't agree more about doing your best to project a professional image Jason. When running a lawn care business we need to do as much as possible to differentiate ourselves from the guys doing it for beer money in order to make decent money.

[@lawncarelife]

+Primo Landscaping I think that is the key to justifying a higher price. I hope you (and me for that matter) and have a great 2016 season

[@PrimoLandscaping]

Thank you Jason. Bestb of luck to you as well.

[@jhomrich89]

Even though this is a completely different industry, one rule of thumb is don't price your products too low. A friend of mine used to own a furniture store in El Paso Texas, obviously watching trends and what's selling and what's not. I remember he told me when he was first getting started of this one item was selling really well I think it was a certain type of entertainment center or something designers were going crazy for it, people wanted this in their house every store was selling out of it everywhere. The average price was like $1500 that's what most competitors were charging, but his supplier was a midsize company out west that had found a way to make this product stronger, and much better at a less expensive price he retailed it for like $900 and nobody was buying it, people thinking it was too cheap, bad quality, whatever the case is. Finally 6 weeks later he raised the price to $1299 the phones were ringing off the hook, people were putting deposits down, he sold out within an afternoon all because of that price jump. Moral of the story don't ever undersell yourself. If all you care about is the price the customer more often than not will start thinking stuff like how can he go this low, he's gotta be losing money, he must be desperate for customers whatever. What is your work worth, if your work is worth $50 per application/mowing because you do a much better job than the guy who does it for $39 people will pay that price difference to have a better customer experience and a higher quality service.

[@MrTonyharrell]

Contractors creed-If you're not busy, price it where you have to. If you're busy, price it where you want. The thing is, price is always relevant especially with our current economic conditions. Personal rapport is very important to keep your customers from shopping you.

[@lawncarelife]

+Tony Harrell I have never heard that saying before, but I think it is true. Good points. thanks

[@MrTonyharrell]

+Lawn Care Business It's quite basic and any contractor in any field will tell you that. See, they all like to eat and sleep indoors. I cringe thinking of some places I've priced but, I always looked to replace those with better accounts when I could.

[@MrTonyharrell]

+Tony Harrell I forgot one important thing. Never ever turn down work. If you see a property you'd rather not do, price it exactly where you want. If they accept, both of you are happy. If they don't, you didn't have to embarrass them or yourself.

[@marsoneonone1234]

Also I have new guys ask me questions all the time now and once you get enough clients you can increase price but 7 years ago when I first started I would not even think about it because every customer meant the world to me.

[@lawncarelife]

+MarsOneOnOne I agree. In the beginning, I just provided excellent customer service to the customers I have. My strategy for new businesses is to grow to a full schedule as quickly as possible so then you won't be under so much financial pressure

[@KJL49]

KJL Listen this commentary is for established Lawn Companies! However coming from a person who started from nothing! A few important things starting out in lawn service! Show people you can do QUALITY work and offer a first year discount! Yes you are working harder but your building clientele! Do not turn down any work! Take it and learn from it! Do not stretch yourself or equipment to thin! Many first year lawn companies will not use commercial grade equipment ! You will not be in the business long. If you don’t continue to upgrade your equipment! Know your clients worth! Every body don’t not need a WHITE HOUSE lawn service! You will not turn a profit! If your cutting forests for lawn service ! You better charge them and have good equipment! Because cheap equipment will last in this business! Last but not least !Learn how to work on your own stuff! This is one area I win every year! I save about 1200$ every year by doing this! Great video Kril

[@josephvanwie6706]

Your right on the money Jason both ways. Most people don't mind paying the shot to a certain extent if the service is quality and the presentation puts them at ease. I sincerely hope you're business stays successful and that your blessed with good health. Thanks for the advice.

[@geterdun57]

Great video! Bought a lawn care business 2 years ago and this has been a tough lesson. Stick to your price!

[@cotswolddroner7714]

That was a very good motivational video! I bought a zero turn Hustler, a new trailer, an Echo weed whacker and a backpack blower for personal use today. After watching your video I might at least try to pick up a few yards around the neighborhood. Im semi retired at 56 but when I was in my 20's I did landscaping and irrigationlmim in! Thanks!

[@lawncarelife]

+Charles Senn Glad to be a motivator. My dad is close to retiring and is looking to pick up a few yards as well. Best wishes

[@shredbacca]

who else clicked on this video because the pink mower

[@Lilmiket1000]

right lol where is the pink freakin mower! lol

[@greenwoodprofessionalservi8405]

I was sure that painting the SCAG V Ride hot pink was the golden ticket. Damn.

[@tazmun]

Yes... I want that PINK mower!!!

[@scottweber3328]

Clickbait

[@rickmcghee755]

I did I was wanting to see what was going on with that perhaps that's his wife's mower

[@rickmcghee755]

I just spent $500 42 magnetic signs assigned on the back of my blazers window I sign on the back of the trailer and and 500 business cards I think advertisement is one of the number one keys everything looking clean and I have to say they look badass

[@JanoyCresva]

When i worked for my buddy januray and feb were coupon months. That kept us busy. He'd double the amount of coupons in those months and in the busy months he would stop the coupons. Seemed to work well for the slow months. He never messed with his prices so the coupon seemed to keep us busy while not having to crunch the numbers on new pricing.

[@mr.weldwell9973]

Your business savvy is good. you are right on target with all your comments. the one thing you have to be sure you are doing is not being a "me too" quality with a "quality service" price. as long as you are good there and your staff is consistent you are going to be successful

[@lawncarelife]

+A Tug good point. Thanks for the comment

[@stevenachterberg]

Great message. I'm not a lawn care guy, just a hobby of mine, but I have been part of one of the top 10 plumbing companies in Canada for the last 10 years. We weren't the best because we made more money but because we delivered the best service. The most qualified guys, the best insurance, the best warranties, the best on-call service, the best period. All those qualities cost money that has to be acquired or cannot be sustained. Yes, we are one of the most expensive but we also had the best customer service. We have nice fully equipped trucks with the newest diagnostic equipment which means the customer pays less in the end because we get to the actual problem the first time. Never feel sorry for charging what you need to charge to take the best care of your customer. You're actually creating a disservice to them by posing as something you're not or applying band-aids.

[@lawncarelife]

Thanks for sharing your experience from another industry.

[@UnblockedOne2]

An ex-buddy of mine raised his prices this year. He lost like %15 of his customers, but they were quickly replaced with new customers.

[@lawncarelife]

+UnblockedOne2 Thanks for sharing. That may be the first time I have seen the term "ex-buddy"

[@nunyabiznis817]

ex-buddy sounds so sexual.

[@anythingbutmyrealname]

@@nunyabiznis817 exual

[@waterheaterservices]

Much better to be the best in service than the best in price

[@lawncarelife]

+Jim Rr that is what I constantly have to remind myself

[@timrichardson9318]

Great quote and a good thing to remember, Jim, thank you.

[@timrichardson9318]

Very good video, thank you.

[@cchaify]

Jim Rr oooo

[@GoodDayFarm]

Yep, I learned this the hard way myself. Solid advice.

[@GravelBackMechanic]

You know sometimes making a KZbin video not only helps other people but it helps you stick to your goals and standards. Thanks for sharing and I know that you won't get anxious and start low balling yourself just to get customers. The season is just around the corner and they will start ringing that phone off the hook soon.

[@lawncarelife]

+Gravel Back Mechanic Many time, my videos are just a reflection of things I have been dealing with in my own business. I figure if I am dealing with a particular situation, many other will be also.

[@marsoneonone1234]

Also thanks for videos your the real deal on utube and your humble.

[@thelawnaddict244]

MarsOneOnOne. I was thinking the same thing.

[@IntegrityLandscape]

Jason, I have been in the landscape industry since 1997, and self employed since 2002. What you express in this video is dead-on correct. Everyone watching (ahem) should take note.

[@lawncarelife]

+Benjamin Bodnar Thanks for the input and the affirmation.

[@melissawake3622]

First year and I already know a few to increase because I didnt quote properly at the beginning and didn't quote before seeing the property going to increase the amount next year and hope it works

[@TheFantasticphotos]

I’m not asking ur prices but I like to know for lawn maintenance what is your formula to rate your prices thks and all who read this I like to hear from u as well thks

[@VanMan89]

I've been thinking of a business name for weeks. Dirt Cheap Cuts it is, thanks man. Just kidding, but I actually burst out laughing at that part. Awesome video, thanks for making them.

[@King813B]

Makes sense. High end restaurant will never change their prices. Either you want it or not.

[@truslyd]

i consider myself a lawn enthusiast and mower afficianado...its not a career just something ive always enjoyed...ive always been i to mowers...havin said that i have the equipment to moonlight in lawncare but being as how its not my profession i wouldnt because i dont want to undercut my friends that are primarily making a living in lawn care.

[@tcrews38]

Just starting a lawn care business. just got a business license. I am learning a lot by watching your videos. Are there any free sample contracts out there that I can get my hands on and alter to fit my needs?

[@Armedlegally]

I really did enjoy your video and I certainly agree with some of the points. But just like my phone service they went up in price 8 dollars almost the same time as my insurance kinda funny how that happened in the same month. Anyhow Insurance went up 52 dollars that was the last time they got my money. In the same day changed services only to save just under 100 on both. Like my situation customers will shop around, I'd suggest if you're going to raise the price see if you can include something that will still give them confidence you're still offering a great price/service that is better then anyone else around.

[@lawncarelife]

+Armedlegally Good points. I don't make a habit of increasing prices. I prefer to price it right at the beginning and then only go up after a few years if it makes sense. I guess I see too many people charging too low of a price. I think in many businesses, it makes sense to charge more, even if it costs you a few customers. Example, if I have 100 customers paying $40 per cut,, I may decide to go up to $45. Perhaps I lose 10% of the customers. At that point, I would have 90 customers at $45 which would pay more than 100 customers at $40. I have found that if you do great work, and treat customers fairly, then many customers will stay with you for a long time. I certainly don't won't to overcharge people or take advantage of customers.

[@hermanjohnnunies8038]

Lawn Care Business thank you Aloha

[@n9nedeez_kid372]

in better parts of town things are more expensive bottom line. if i go to an old ghetto neighborhood where all the homes are exactly the same everyone gets charged the same for the same services( w/ some variables) but if i pull up to a guy's house and the yard is three times bigger he's getting charged more even tho he is getting the same service everyone else did. since you wanted to use cars and gas as an example I will too. when you fill up your tank you get charged accordingly, a fill up isnt a set price. that raptor does cost more to fill up than the civic. i.e. bigger yards get charged more. bottom line is fair work for fair wages, same price for same sq. ft. no matter the homes value

[@Budro4764]

How much do you get per square foot on a yard with a house and 1 shed ? 80X120 lot ...

[@pl747]

In your neck of the woods, how much is the charge for just mowing, for say a half acre yard? Weed eating is worth as much as the mowing usually. Some people want just a mow and go though.

[@nickc2708]

figure out your numbers, know what you need to make and stick with it. I love when homeowners ask " am I going to find a better price elsewhere" and I always say your always going to find a better price but I plan to be in business for a very long time and I'm not building clientele to sell off in near future.

[@jordanhousewashingandlands4241]

Very good video! you have learned what a lot of people aren't. sell quality service, not low price.

[@bizzybeez100]

That's what I was going to name my company, Dirt cheap Cutts! lol!, or Shoe String Lawn Maintenance. Seriously, I think theirs a fine line between quality and quantity and the larger companies are using quantity. A few years back this large company from our area went BANKRUPT and held an auction, well low and behold they were making a 1% profit the past 3 years(REALLY). They tried to corner the market If your just starting out take what you can get and then pick and choose as you grow and when you do you can bid higher. Later on at a certain point think about an All-Inclusive Package(for our area we use Spring Cleanup-Mowing-Fertlizing-(Lawncare) and Leaf removal give a 5% discount on a prepay? Snow Removal per service! Great Video LawnCare Business I'm just climbing aboard on the KZbin seen and will have some videos soon! good luck!

[@lawncarelife]

+Bizzy Beez lawn-n-landscape thanks for the comment. Good to hear from you

[@welchcontracting8826]

Most customers understand things keep going up and they most likely are not gonna fret a small raise once in a wbile but if your raising your price every year they might, also if you cret raising by 5 think of maybe raising 2 or 3 dlars which will still increase your income

[@SnookOnTheFly]

Every time I give a quote and I hear them say my last guy was cheaper I say that’s probably why he isn’t here now.

[@km4fsi827]

Im just north of you here in Tennessee, it is a gold mine!! for lawn care here. I live 2 miles from spring hill, one of the fastest growing towns in america because of General Motors plant. Huge subdivisions with 500 thousand dollar + homes popping up every week! You can almost name the price and they will pay it... my problem is i have a full time job and i make good money at my job of 20 years, but i sure would love to start a lawn service, work at my pace, alone, and i love to cut grass! just bought a new zero turn and i do have the money to go all out with a crew and nice equipment... just wondering your advice? The winter time is whats keeping me from do this full time. how does one survive the off season? No income in the winter is scary to me.

[@nunyabiznis817]

First rule of starting/running a business is to never blab about how the area you service is a "goldmine". Given that you already did that, you are better off keeping that job.

[@km4fsi827]

Oh i will keep that job for sure.. I would never cut more than just a few yards if i did this. Not out to make a living at it, was just wondering how the pros made it thru the winter. As for blabbing about a goldmine area, its not new news around here. There is more than enough to go around, im not out to hurt anyone's business, they can have it. was just wondering.

[@nunyabiznis817]

As for winter,, assuming you live in a cold winter climate, many lawn care companies plow snow. However, IMHO, it isn't worth it. Another model is to work your ass off in the warm months to make a good yearly income, meanwhile living a frugal life. Of course, if you live in warm winter areas, then lawncare is a year-round business.

[@ljmini732]

Great info and begin a Brit, dirt cheap cut company comment which I found very funny. Been looking at your vid's and getting lots of good info. cheers

[@lawncarelife]

+JGS Gardening service Thank for the comment. Is lawn care a common business in England?

[@ljmini732]

Yes, but our gardens aren't that big for domestic gardens, commercial is more profitable. Going rate for domestic gardening is £10-15 an hour and lawn start from £10 per cut.

[@travisdeanjackson]

how do you measure a lawn for square feet?

[@lawncarelife]

I use a measuring wheel and calculate the area once I have the dimensions

[@travisdeanjackson]

+Lawn Care Business what is the formula? is it length x width or linear feet x ???

[@lawncarelife]

length x width on squares and rectangles. Sometimes it is more of a triangle or even a circle.

[@nunyabiznis817]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mHSnlYR5Yt-lhtU

[@stevenvega7139]

Hey what's up?Steven from vega lawn care.my first yr...i would love to know how you go about getting a steady customer?

[@Brandr1]

I was in pest control for 14 years. I charged what I was worth. I am not in lawn care (though I am considering it), but I would always charge what I am worth. Low ballers will either price themselves out of business or take short cuts that become noticeable.

[@tylerwinkowitsch1134]

Quality over Quantity

[@rickmcghee755]

How about thunder mowing

[@boutcha1]

You have to stay profitable. The guys who quote cheap prices go out of business when they have to upgrade equipment.

[@eddieness03]

hi I am in california. what do you think price should be per foot if I mow

[@nunyabiznis817]

$22.77/ft.

[@eddiewilliams5192]

Great video Jason. Keep them coming

[@lawncarelife]

+Eddie Williams Thanks Eddie. I hope to find time to keep making videos.

[@GAPilot69]

Tip: Go after Trugreen customer you will win a lot of new customers. Most of there custoomers are unhappy especialy customers were a year of Trugreen service came with a new home in big subdivisions.

[@lawncarelife]

+Neil Cigelske that is probably a good way to get more customers. Thanks for sharing

[@TheJokesterSCR]

Most of this video is meant for an established lawn care provider. While the information is good, I'd like to know more about how to help get a business off the ground from scratch. Example: I am currently starting with the bare minimum. I have a 21 inch mower, trimmer, blower, and hedgers. I have no trailer or riding mower. I have about 20 repeat customers. I can't currently afford to have shirts printed or to invest a bunch of money into bigger mowers or a trailer. I would honestly guess that I look like one of those "Dirt Cheap Cuts" people you were referring to. I have to lift my push mower into and out of my truck bed, lol! How would you suggest growing a lawn care business when starting with practically nothing? I could really use some investing tips, or tips on how to gain more new business. Otherwise, great video. Thanks in advance!

[@lawncarelife]

+OneSickDrummer If I had little money to invest, I would go door to door on Saturdays. I would also post on facebook, craiglist, etc. You can also get postcards to put out on doors when people do not answer. I would also give my current customers a referral credit and let them know you are looking to add customers

[@TheJokesterSCR]

Lawn Care Business Thank you for the response. The only thing I don't do is go to doors because people around here can be... douches, but I'm on neighborhood websites, have started offering referral credits, and even offering the 5th mow free, if they get on a weekly or bi-weekly schedule. I've only got about 20 repeats. I live in San Antonio, Tx, and there is a ton of competition. So much competition, and our weather is never good. It's either really hot and dry or raining non-stop, lol! Point is, with this much competition and the demand not being as high as in other states, it's tough getting new customers. I'm just wondering what everybody else did to build up their customer base. Thanks again for the tips! Hope the season is good for you.

[@BasqueLandscaping]

+OneSickDrummer Honestly I wouldn't worry so much about you're image at this point and focus more on providing quality work. The referral tip is a great tip but wouldn't recommend doing free cuts. My family and I have been in this business over 45 years and quality speaks louder then image. I've spent thousands on looking professional but customer referrals from quality work have still been my greatest marketing tool. Anyone can look professional but few provide professional quality work. Biggest mistake i see people make in this business is, they try to grow to fast and find themselves with more expenses then profit.

[@TheJokesterSCR]

Jose Sarratea Yeah, I was iffy about doing free cuts, but I made it clear that it's mainly a temporary promotion to help me grow my customer list this season. I currently have 20 repeat customers, but nobody wants to get on a schedule, they just wanna call when they feel like it needs to be done. Then they wait until the grass is over a foot tall to call you, then complain when you charge extra... lol! Anyways, since I can't get anybody to agree to a schedule, I need as many customers as possible. I'd think if I could get to 50 repeat customers, I'd be able to make a good $3-$4K a month, which I'd be thrilled with. Minus off season, of course. Should still have made around between $30-$40K for the year, which is more than I've made working anywhere else. Will still continue to build after that, but that's my initial goal for now. I had a chance to buy another guys business for $10K plus all of his equipment, which was a LOT. Had like 80 customers. Only problem was that I felt like I would be biting off more than I could chew. I need to ease into it as I go and let it expand naturally. I'm just thinking about little tips to finding new customers, but it's starting to look like there really isn't much more than doing good work for a reasonable price. Thanks for the tips!

[@barrychouinard4019]

+OneSickDrummer A few things I'll offer. Always remember you are not providing "lawn care", what you are really providing is customer service. Customer service requires you take every opportunity to know each customer's expectations, and then work to fill those expectations. Have your business model setup to accommodate the various services that customers want, or don't want. Example - if you have a customer that more than anything they hate weeds in their lawn - sell the services that will accomplish that - that's what they are telling you they want. If they only want their lawn mowed to the minimum requirements - put then in a pricing model that does not weed wack every trip, explain the savings to them in price because it reduces your costs.While this video references a $5 increase in price, I'll lay odds you will have better retention by increasing your price by a different amount - let's say you raise your price by $2.40 per application, but then you do it every year instead of only adjusting prices every 5 years. You'll be ahead making small price adjustments a yearly event. Also when equipment is mentioned, I'd rather have a less expensive truck that is kept clean and neat than a brand new tow vehicle that is dirty and un-kept. Same for your mowers. Put time and effort into clean, well maintained equipment. When a customer sees a brand new truck after a price increase - he knows your desire for a new truck cost him more money. Buy the new truck - and leave it at home for your personal usage. Put customer referral programs on your invoice. Instead of giving a new customer the 5th mow free - give the referring customer half off and the new customer half off when the 5th mowing comes around. If you are trying to grow. Grow strategically - target the market you want to grow.Keep impeccable records, so in the off season, you can really evaluate your business, and figure out analytically what business is profitable, and what business is marginal. Have a computer with a simple spreadsheet in your truck - record the specifics about both the customer, and the job. Use OneNote for customer characteristics, and Excel for job characteristics. There are really only 2 factors in running a business. Generate revenue, and retain revenue (reduce expenses). Always work on both.

[@BarryVideo1]

In most cases, I do compete on price, but with a different twist. When talking with a potential new customer, if they let me know they are thinking of changing and tell me the current provider price (at what I was thinking of quoting), I let them know the price is a good price. I automatically show that by always quoting a bit higher. Why? Because I use good equipment, apply good products, good at what I do that shows in the short/long term end result, and it provides the customer a sense that they are buying something more than the average. I do not provide any type of discount on any of my services. That' most cases. I do have some high traffic commercial accounts that I compete directly price to price, primarily for the high visibility it provides my organization. Now, I will show the discount on my accounting so that I can take it against my income. Hope these tips help those that are trying to make a career or business from their work, not just a job.

[@lawncarelife]

+Barry Camarillo Sounds like a good strategy to me. There is a little psychology involved in pricing.

[@danturner8538]

Spot on Mr Creel. I need some new khakis myself.

[@lawncarelife]

I have started buy all new pants at the beginning of each year. After one year, they are not very presentable

[@weighit]

Have a relative that owns a dog grooming business. She raises prices every January 1st by $2.00 across the board. People like her and the work she does and never argue over the $2.00 and if some leave becasue of the price, she still has gained money by the price raise. Things cost more every year, and no sense your business can't stay current and get paid for all your hard work.

[@lawncarelife]

+Stacey Frank good story and I think that is probably a smart business move on her part

[@stevesanchezpinto4256]

Imma try a version of that lol

[@elmerfisher1513]

Awesome video. Looking forward to a new season

[@lawncarelife]

+Stoney Lane Lawn Care Elmer Fisher Hopefully 2016 will be a great year for both of us

[@elmerfisher1513]

I sure hope so. Wondering what the best way is to advertise. It's my first full year and trying to get more customers

[@cricketcricket9749]

Where's the pink mower? I like it.

[@prioritycutzlawncare3572]

Great info. It will help a lot of newbies and some established

[@lawncarelife]

+Priority Cutz Lawn Care & Service I needed the reminder myself. The customer that I referred to in the video that I gave a higher price ended up calling and hire me after all.

[@zone4garlicfarm]

If you show up on time and do good work you will busy no matter how much you charge. One satisfied client quickly turns into more work than you can handle.

[@grasscutter88]

Do you you think a $5 price hike on a $25.00 lawn would be too much? Some of my yards I've kept at the same price for too long.

[@lawncarelife]

+grasscutter88 I don't think so. You could lose 1 out of 5 customers and still make the same amount of money (I hope my math is correct)

[@grasscutter88]

I think after you get to know them long enough you can tell which ones would care and which ones don't.

[@nunyabiznis817]

It all depends on your local market and your clientele along with other economic factors. No one can really answer pricing questions since every market is different.

[@Neonbiker]

I still do it part time ... what advise do you have with that ... I raised some prices on customers last year

[@lawncarelife]

+Daily Life Hustle when part-time I think it is very important to Target the most profitable customers because you only have a limited amount of time to work. I would try to simplify my business and keep a very tight route

[@joseguzman1621]

Good man i like it hope i start doing something this year

[@uncleben8895]

The guys who win the price battle don't pass the test of time. Some new guy will always outbid you and lose money doing it. Inflation alone can give you a pay cut every year. It happens to we hourly shlubs, I don't think I have gotten an effective raise in a long time.

[@michaeldewitt9827]

How would you view a lawn care provider driving in a brand new pickup truck?

[@lawncarelife]

maybe he is doing really well or he has a big truck payment. There are examples of both

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

I mentioned this in another comment. You don't want to see a junky truck or a brand new one. I think the same way for financial advisors.

[@wayneessar7489]

Michael DeWitt He (me) just upgraded from his 26 year old one and paid cash.

[@stevesanchezpinto4256]

Maybe his truck broke down lol. I was 3 years in with an 04 ranger and it broke down on me and I didn’t have enough money to buy the truck I wanted so I had to get a new one with a 10k deposit.. sure coulda bought an old one but you want reliability sometimes..actually bought an old f350 soon after to dump. ..now I got all three working after two years lol had to save but I was 21 driving a 16 f150 so I’m sure people thought At first I would suck but the quality took that thought away from them real quick lol.

[@nunyabiznis817]

Most small business owners overspend. That is one of the major reasons why small businesses fail but the least talked-about one. These big over-spenders are usually found in contracting, hair-styling and real estate. These business owners are big in debt and never pay their bills.

[@marsoneonone1234]

Hi Jason I talked to you before about your large hat anyways you mentioned you moved and had to start from scratch. I am at a point where I could not move and start over I hope it worked out ok for you. I am at a point where I want to get into commercial up here in Ontario Canada, you mentioned spring time is a good time to go to different businesses and ask them if they are looking for a quote. Any other advise.JamieDESERT OAK LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICE

[@lawncarelife]

+MarsOneOnOne Thanks for the comment. Perhaps things are a little different in Canada. I would say that right now would be the time to target commercial properties here. I have been having more success with commercial companies contacting me through my website. Cold calling is difficult but if you have some type of connection then that will help. I don't have any great strategies for commercial accounts. I focus primarily on residential

[@grasscutter88]

I had a hard time getting regular customers last year, tons of one time mows.

[@lawncarelife]

+grasscutter88 I would take one-timers if you have time. Sometimes you can charge a little extra for those

[@nunyabiznis817]

Then you're targeting the wrong market. You don't want people who usually take care of their own lawn. You want people who can't or don't like to take care of their own lawn. The more money they make, the least likely they are to do their own lawncare. The poorer they are, the more likely they are to take care of their lawn because they cannot afford to have someone do it. One of the few times they want to hire someone is when they neglect their yard and need someone to tame an overgrown yard and they can only afford $40 lol

[@pp2021]

I dont understand how people make enough money just by mowing lawns. I build gardens, remove tree stumps, fell problem trees, and am booked out. In winter I have more than enough snow to clear. Always make a quote based on the trouble involved in completing the job. I have a maxim, if I only come away with the initial job ....I have failed miserably. I always need a second contract. Mouth propaganda is the best advertiser, cuts both ways as well. Greetings from Germany

[@saviourskennels]

What's your price chart look? Just trying to get some ideas. Thanks

[@lawncarelife]

+saviourskennels I only use a price chart for weed control and fertilization....not for mowing. Are you doing weed control or mowing?

[@saviourskennels]

+Lawn Care Business For lawn mowing. How do you give prices for mowing large lots? like acre track? thanks

[@MimizAntrax]

Lawn Care Life Hows your price chart looking trying to get an idea of how much I should charge im going to start a weed control and fertilizer business here in Arizona I have a QP for three categories so ready to start my own let me know if you could help me out with that

[@brianmeister2839]

I think you should not have disrespected your state or what you think others may perceive Alabamans to be. I get what you are saying; you should present yourself as a professional, but I, as a fellow Southerner, don't like to see us underscore the negative image that others (particularly yankees) see us as. Else, you did a great and informative video. Thanks!

[@lawncarelife]

+Brian Meister thanks for the reminder. I agree with you. I am proud to be a southerner and wouldn't want to bring shame

[@nunyabiznis817]

Yeah, that's the part I didn't get. You are from Alabama doing business with others from Alabama yet you feel like they may think you are a stupid Alabama dude? You lost me on that one.

[@issacf4416]

I won't look at someone who has a beat up truck pulling around dirty equipment to do my yard.. So bad, so sad but that's life!

[@lawncarelife]

+Issac Frutos business image does indeed make a difference

[@aguyandhiscomputer]

You don't want to see a junky truck but you also don't want to see a brand new one. I think the same way about financial advisors.

[@nunyabiznis817]

I never worry about that stuff. It's the person and their work ethic that matter to me.

[@scottlundy257]

Price may also be affected by location I would not drive 30 miles to cut 100sq ft of grass However if there are 3or4 houses on the same block than we can make a deal.

[@lawncarelife]

+Scott Lundy good point. I agree

[@nunyabiznis817]

Make a deal? Then, when one of them cancels service, you'll wish you had not made that deal.

[@Bellislawns]

Excellent points Jason!

[@lawncarelife]

+Bellis Lawn & Gardens Thanks for the kind words

[@Imwright720]

I’m the most expensive and the best. People are usually happy to pay for the service. I don’t care what anybody else charges. Those that don’t want to pay my price I don’t want anyway. I’ve had the same base for over 20years and some since the beginning. They constantly give me referrals which keeps me busy. Different industry but same concept.

[@craiganderson1943]

I am just getting started and met a Man that owns one of the Largest Lawn Care Service Companies in Our area. He Blatantly told me that i could "Follow his trucks, and steal more than 1/2 of his customers" because he has his crews trained to do any jobs 90% complete because 100% takes too much time and they aren't paying for time. I believe anything i do should be as close to 100% complete as possible. Happy Customers will pay more for Good Service. What are your thoughts ?

[@lawncarelife]

+Craig Anderson Wow. That is quite an honest statement he gave. I try to provide excellent lawn care. Does that's mean that it is 100% perfect? No, but close. He is probably telling the truth. One advantage you have starting out is that you probably will have time to provide excellent lawn work. I would certainly not advise cutting corners. I agree that many people will pay for excellent work. I am not sure that may will pay much more but they will pay a little more.

[@ProjectKeyMow]

were at in alabama are you? i'm in the montgomery/millbrook/prattville area.

[@lawncarelife]

+Roy Franks just north of Birmingham. I moved from Montgomery

[@aidantiger3857]

I have about 50 people in my niaghborhood, I mow lawns for 15-35$ , no one has even asked me to mow.

[@meljamison6563]

Thank you for the good advice.

[@MattFromWork]

love your videos Jason

[@lawncarelife]

Thanks. I appreciate you letting me know. Sometimes, it is difficult to tell which videos people like and which ones they don't. I am always open to suggestions for new video content

[@svlag1090]

I just know I have to gross a certain amount in revenue per day to operate and profit enough. and I find new clients in areas where I already have clients, to mow up to 40 stops a day

[@lawncarelife]

+svlag1090 I agree it is smart to find more clients where your existing clients are. 40 stops is a lot. How big is your crew?

[@svlag1090]

+Lawn Care Business 3 guys. 40 awns a day. at an average of $35

[@lawncarelife]

+svlag1090 That is a lot of grass for a 3 man crew. Impressive.

[@DurgalurJay]

TELLING US TO NOT UNDERBID YOU VERY SMART

[@FatBodiesInc]

Durgalur Jay 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Ringlawncare]

Awesome stuff, thanks man!!!!

[@lawncarelife]

+Ring Lawn Care Thanks...I hope I am able to listen to my own advice

[@peeinyourbuttallday748]

+Lawn Care Business hey i was thinking of naming my lawn care business smokin mowers what do you think

[@toaluasaleupolu7060]

good on you bro quality always win

[@qigongandthemartialarts3273]

great information I agree

[@kmoore5256]

Ring, ring. "Trim, cut, blow, mow. You're speaking with Moe! How may I cut your grass, or service you today?"

[@2014cwajts71]

All right now that's good.

[@ljwreynolds8650]

Feel asleep right as the ad started playing 😒

[@rickmcghee755]

When you try to increase the price they say I'm on a fixed income

[@bobbg9041]

If your pricing structure isn't written in stone, that could also mean your jobs are not done correctly, it is also stupid to assume midseason gas isn't going to skyrocket and kill your profits, Stick to your guns after all you ahve to make money to survive. Also did you know in some states gas ca be bought tax free, and yo can deduct your fuel, oil and equipment service from your profits track your mileage on your truck al of that is cost to do bussines know what your costs are, do the math per job and weekly and don;t be afraid if gas goes from 1.95 a gallon to 4 bucks a gallon mid season to ask for more money, you customer should understand. They won't like it. or you can do a contract, and this is wha I would do a year's service x mowes a year and you get to pick when the 53 mowes will be done adjusted to the weather and growing season. you can als use some of that time for other projects like remove a bush, trim trees ex.. Storm clean up insurance, if there's a storm anything under 3" dia yo will cut off and remove this dosn't cover tree trunks or large trees. No storm they still pay this is for customers you retain season after season. Who's offering this service? Offer somthing no one else can do. Like Gutter cleaning. Hardscaping ex... Pool cleaning. Deck staining and cleaning. Sprinkler system maintenance and install. Go above and beyond anyone else's ability and you will be the go to guy for everything outside a home, oh and if you do 50 out of 52 mows in one year on a property, you always have snow removal or overseeding. Think Contracts.....Binding contracts.

[@nemonobody4747]

Thank you for those tips. I will screenshot them and then add em' to my notebook.

[@brianflowers3423]

Great Video

[@mmllgg2471]

Well Done Thanks!

[@bigslimsanantoniotx6483]

Great info👍🏼

[@lawncarelife]

+Joe Araiza glad to help

[@michaelfarris2556]

Momma said, "Never judge a book by its cover

[@subixbarbarasson157]

Wisdom. Well said.

[@hunkydude322]

its not the value of the truck that determines if the individual cares about what trade he's doin etc... he could have a million dollar truck and do a shitty job.

[@yardtherapyllc4012]

Great video.

[@Neonbiker]

I feel that way to about money with money ....

[@robertswift6101]

Ur time is worth X amount of dollars,someone may low ball like a lot of times but in the end it comes down to the money and the quality,,why short change urself because someone else undercut by 10 bucks,,,its not worth ur time and effort then,,plenty of customers for everyone.

[@lawncarelife]

+Robert Swift I agree. When in doubt on pricing lawn care service, price based on the estimated time plus materials (if any)

[@terrellsqualitylawncare9820]

thanks

[@tonyslawncare]

thank you big dog!

[@lawncarelife]

+tonymowingrass Glad to help

[@n9878f]

Well said!

[@octaviandogar76]

Thanks man.

[@universalbeats352]

the power of the thumbnail

[@jc411d8]

Applications.............

[@mannycardi7745]

you are awesome !!!!