How Much Should I Charge As A Handyman? The Final Answer!

[@dpilotnyc7621]

I’m in NYC and started at $40 an hour in 2017 just mounting tvs on task rabbit. I’ve taken more complex jobs since then and grown my knowledge to the point where I do almost everything now (tile, sheetrock, appliances, fixtures, basic plumbing, paint, etc) and charge $160/hr now. My rule of thumb is when I’m totally booked 2 weeks out or more, rates to new clients go up. I raise existing client rates once a year so they’re just under new client rate. This formula has worked incredibly well for me, very very rarely don’t have a full day of work every single day that I want to work. Good luck to everyone!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

That's amazing. Congratulations!

[@Painfulwhale360]

Do you actually tell the customer it’s $160 an hour or do you say something like “I can install your ceiling fan and the price is $160”?

[@kehro4344]

that's great man! How do you tell your existing customers that you've raised the prices? Did you lose any of your customesr because of that?

[@francis5944]

why do you raised your fees? is it harder to work when your busy? are materials more expensive when your busy? do jobs take longer to do when your busy? the answer is no. you just taking advantage of this customers because your busy. buy what if you were not busy? are you gonna lower your cost?

[@dpilotnyc7621]

@@Painfulwhale360 I always quote by the hour and bull in 15 min increments. 1 hr min for the long time clients but 2 hr min for new. And I’m happy to fill the unused time with other jobs.

[@yonmoore]

Also, as a property manager and investor, I can tell you that if you're still learning, a low rate is fine but ultimately, any investor is constantly looking for the most efficient use of their time and money. The cheap guys quite often will cost you far more because a lot of them don't think the same way you do - taking multiple trips to home depot for one item at a time as needed for example - a SERIOUS productivity killer. I'd gladly pay double for someone who knows how to not waste time like that. Plus the final bill often ends up cheaper and whoever I hired made more money. It's a win-win.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You have perfectly described exactly what I'm trying to say. Thank you

[@JOATradesLLC]

Great video. I'm a licensed residential contractor in AZ. Residential remodel is fancy speak for handyman or the same Jack of all trades and master of some on a bigger scale. I love working for myself and providing others with work to support their families. Just wanted to put some things out to ponder for those that are striking out on their own or trying to refine their business model. There are 2080 hour in a business year. As a self employed person you don get paid holidays (12 of them now) so you loss 96 hours. This leaves you with a simple math problem to get an annual salary: multiply your hourly by 2 and add the word thousand. Example $100/hr x 2 = $200 + thousand. So if you worked 8 hours a day on standard work days at you'd get $200,000/yr, which sounds awesome out the gate. But you don't get paid vacation working for yourself let's figure 2 weeks per year so $8,000 gone. You don't have access to employee benefits like medical, dental, unemployment insurance, workers comp, disability insurance, and matched retirement. You can get these as a self employed but you will absorb the full cost. I estimate thest to be about 10% of your income $20,000/year. You get no company truck or tools to drive to the jobs. I have probably $100,000 of tools. I like your concept of buying two every time so you have an inventory to maximize time and money but that will become another $50-100,000 as well. You do get a tax break for the vehicle but vehicles are expensive and insurance is more expensive if you are properly insured. If you aren't properly insured and get in an accident you risk your insurance denying the claim. As a handy man you should also carry a general liability policy to protect your family this is a cost of several thousand dollars per year. You have to pay your own FICA self employment tax 7.65% ($15,300) You will need to do things you hate or suck at like invoicing, writing, accounting, taxes, etc most of this will be in your evenings and weekends when you used to be with family, friends, faith or hobbies. You don't get an overtime rate of 1.5 when you go beyond 8 hours a day (this will be almost every day). If you get a license there are exams, bonds, insurances, and fees to be paid. You will be a business and will need a business license from various entities including city, county and state You may have to track and bay sales tax or submit monthly filings. You have to file income tax quarterly with both state and federal. You will probably need an accountant and an attorney to at least consult with on occasion. I say all of this not to discourage anyone working for me myself and I is the best. But $50/hour will starve you and your family. You need to be $100-200/hr on site to make it in most places. I know th number sounds huge but when you are footing all the bills, responsibility, and risk and give up your nights, weekend, vacation you need and deserve the "big bucks" Good luck everyone.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you for the comment. It goes right back to the issue of treating yourself and your business as you would any other business. Overhead is unreal, and we're all doing this to provide income so we can't undervalue ourselves. I hope to hear more from you in the future.

[@HomeGrownPyro1]

Great advise thanks

[@wisdomspectre]

Great breakdown on top of an already really informative video. Keep in mind, folks, that generally people know that they get what they pay for. So if you know you are detailed, honest, and diligent in your work then you should absolutely charge a rate that resembles the professionalism you provide. You will find that your jobs get easier, not harder, as you charge more, because half the grief of the job is dealing with people, and the people generally get easier to deal with the more money they have and are willing to pay you. I spent a long time charging $45/$50 per hour, while keeping up with everything else required to deliver results, and I gotta tell ya the middle aged couple, PMC, or working mother that is ready to shell out my $160 minimum is 100% ALWAYS a preferable customer compared to some that are looking for a bargain. I mean, only if getting paid on time and having your time and expertise respected are qualities you look for in a customer, that is ;)

[@brucewilliamsstudio4932]

Well said! I charge $105 an hour and with four weeks holidays I only pulled in $174K.

[@HomeGrownPyro1]

@@brucewilliamsstudio4932 only? Lol… I’m still in my first 6 months since going on my own…but would be pretty pumped to hit a number like that. How long you been doing it for?

[@kylessinging]

This is by far the most detailed and actionable information on KZbin for handyman work. Thanks for sharing!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I appreciate you saying that. That's the goal is to give yall actionable info to actually start making positive moves today.

[@brucewilliamsstudio4932]

I just raised my rates to $115/hr (CDN) and a $55 call out fee.

[@danieli708]

@@brucewilliamsstudio4932 are you in a large city? Im in Ontario in a city roughly of 500k population. Therefore at that rate are you steadily busy? Thanks for future replying 😃

[@brucewilliamsstudio4932]

@@danieli708 1.4 million here where I live and I try to limit my jobs to one quadrant of the city due to the travel time and fuel costs. Generally fairly busy, but things have slowed down this year. Last year this time I was booked out weeks in advance. This year it's almost day by day for bookings. Personally I think the economy is slowing, but I'm not dropping my rates.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thats awesome!@@brucewilliamsstudio4932

[@legionaires]

Ive never done all the KZbin things (like, subscribe, notifications and share) but I did here. I believe this is a honest man trying to simply help and the world needs more of us to act the same. He is tying to help strangers because its the right thing, who would I be if I didn’t do likewise. Thank you for your choice to be this kind of person. For what (little) its worth you’ve earned my loyal support.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you so much!

[@rogermills9071]

I'd like to chime in as, well, with props regarding this video. I'm curious to know to who, and what types, of marketing you did/do when first starting. I am just now starting my business and would appreciate any input from you or any of your fellow subscribers. Thanks for your time. ...Like you say, "it's valuable".

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I think the only marketing I did when I first started was a couple craigslist ads and a couple posts on some facebook community pages. Had I not found property management, I likely would have posted quite a few more ads and I would have had to learn more about marketing my business. Instead, I was lucky enough to have a property manager reach out to me because she was desperate because her handyman had suddenly fallen off the map and couldn't be reached. Once I saw what was going on and the property management world that quickly switched gears and I marketed myself directly to property managers by putting together a package with all my business info and emailing and calling property management companies. I've never looked back since then. I've also never invested one minute of my time or one Penny into marketing because my property managers keep me so busy I can't keep up.

[@rogermills9071]

Thanks for taking the time to reply. I'll be following the advise. AND you!

[@eric4brs]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. There are so many KZbins about handyman business that are either trying to sell something or are just bragging about how awesome they are. You get right to the meat, you name prices, and then you go into the details. Perfect.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

That's what I strive for, thank you

[@williamglover5598]

Hello Bulletproof, I've been a handyman for a lot of years and after listening to you, I know I've cheated myself trying to be fair but fair to who. Thank you for the awaking on pricing and some other things I should have known. Take care.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome! Take care!

[@whitechris720]

A jack of all trades is a master of none, but often more valuable than a master of one.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Often true!

[@donaldrippetoe5246]

I really appreciate the content of your channel! I learn so much with each video! Thank you for genuine and sincere approach!!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!

[@crand20033]

I own my house and rent my rooms. I know how to do most of the handyman things myself, I save a lot of money that way. KZbin has a lot of good training videos.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thats great!

[@michaelkiley5658]

Subscribed. I've been remodeling homes for 30 years and not charging enough because I hate running the business. Thank you for inspiring me to get better

[@bulletproofhandyman]

It gets easier after everyone settles in and appreciated the level of reliability you can offer. Just follow through on that and they will show you your value by continuing to send the work.

[@yellowstonegaming]

So me and my brother have a property maintenance company in Fiji where we offer a package deal of $800 per month for landscaping (grass and tree cutting ect) and pool cleaning. We also off repairs for anything, charged on a case by case rate.. so 150 for any electrical item and 400 for roof cleaning ect..this is all in fiji dollars of course, which is like 50 cents to the u.s dollar..

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thats awesome. I'm seeing that model pop up more and more.

[@tomhorrigan5769]

Best advice I’ve run across for handymen. Honest, direct, actionable and from someone who is doing it successfully and with integrity.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you

[@rqmatix305]

Thank you very much for explaining the CA laws and advertising for a handyman business !!!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome

[@crand20033]

I had a handyman come to my house and replace my bathroom faucet. Worked fine but after that the hot water never came on. I found out months later he put the pipes on wrong so the hot water came on when you turned the lever to the right and waited for about 3 minutes.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Interesing.

[@JaviEzko7]

Outstanding video. Every self employed person should watch this.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I appreciate that compliment sir.

[@windamiercorp2153]

Thanks guy,,, you're a real pro. This is the 1st time I've ever added a "comment" to a viewed KZbin,,,,, thank you

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome sir. I'm honored to be the first then.

[@engineered9998]

I’ve replaced these tracks. Use this little trick. Insert a Phillips head screwdriver in the end of a 48” galvanized pipe. Insert screws in track with a cardboard holding washer. Screw in track from the door opening first. I attack a small led to the screwdriver and screw in track inside the pocket. Then no need to cut hole in drywall

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks!

[@danny99999999999999]

Just had another job today where I didn't make that much. About $175 for 7 hours of work or so. I'm thinking of removing the word handyman from my business name. Def seems once the customer starts to think of you as a "handyman" you are now equal to a day laborer or some misfit who can't hold a steady job. As a result people are often offended when you charge more than $20-$25/hour for simple handyman tasks.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I'm sorry to hear that

[@crand20033]

I'm not paying $125 trip fee to have someone change a 1 dollar receptacle. Why not just buy a electrical tester, turn off the breaker, open it up wth a screwdriver, find out how it was wired before and replace it yourself? Then why not challenge yourself to do other tasks too? Today, we are so lucky to have free education on youtube.

[@briansigma1342]

Not many people know how or will do it.​@@crand20033

[@MikeM-bi5ot]

I’m a 30 dollar an hour 10 year loyal employee of a general contractor. I’m nervous to attempt going out like you. We do remodeling additions. And custom house sometimes. I like the guy. But for an example, I went threw 2 buddy’s, and a brother, trying to help me frame a large addition, no shade southern Louisiana.... boss sitting under a tent yelling at everyone, people rolling on me.... yesterday he hit the homeowner for 15,000. My cut 2,400 about a grand to help. Burns my ass up sometimes. I have clients trying to side hire me.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I know it is scary, it really is. You have to plan for it, and you'll need money to invest in materials if you go with property management. But if you do a good job and are reliable you can make far more money and not be screwed every time there is a recession. I wish you success no matter what you decide.

[@joaquinmartinez6028]

Is scary, but is more scary bo always waiting for payments, just start little by little and never take a costumer from your employer, until you are independent...

[@MikeM-bi5ot]

@@joaquinmartinez6028 Our family has been very blessed over the last year. My wife and I sold a half acre of property. Invested in a cargo trailer, some big tools all the licenses and insurance. I’ve been charging 150 service charge and 50 an hour after first hour. Or 45 hour for larger remodels. I’m crazy Busy all the time, really hard to keep up.

[@wellfleetion]

NewPro quoted me 12k just for a fiberglass tub and shower and nothing else. So I got a contractor to do EVERYTHING and with much better materials, including a fully tiled shower/tub, new toilet, vanity, medicine cabinet, paint, even changed out the rusty heater vents and my light switch fixtures as well as a broken brick on my entrance. He charged for labor only - $6k, including all material (toilet, tile, fixtures, paint). Some people just overcharge and is why this industry has a horrible reputation. This will change soon.

[@gilbertgnarley303]

That guy is inexperienced and will be out of business in less than a year. Nothing to brag about there.

[@TheBulletProofEvangelist]

The last 2 minutes of your video is where its at. You love your wife and family and want to create a future. I am super happy I discovered your channel. I am 51 years old and just now figuring out what to do with the rest of my life. This is it. I've has a hard life, but I believe the best is yet to come! Thank you! PS - When are the tee shirts coming? BULLETPROOF HANDYMAN NATION

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I am 41 years old and I feel like my life is only just beginning now. Whatever you decide to do, I hope you have lots of good luck to go along with your hard work.I hope to eventually have T shirts to sell! I think that would be awesome

[@Loki_Dokie]

Starting here at 41, yes it's scary to me, but I got tired of making someone else rich and I'm worth more than anyone is willing to pay. Four kids and divorced, but co-parent with my ex wife. I have a 17 year old that wants to be a carpenter and can help me and learn what I know and we can learn what I don't know together. Get on it bubba, no fear.

[@rayt230]

Crushed it man, great video! Love the passion and the why! I quit my job four years ago when my son was born and I realized I was worth way more than my employer was willing to pay. Did a job last Saturday that was the equivalent of 3 weeks pay from that old employer. 7 hours worked and my customer got a great value

[@bulletproofhandyman]

That's where it's at brother!

[@joeshands1059]

Thank you, I'm a jack of most trades and always wondered what to charge if I was a handy man

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!

[@natedogg98]

You can’t say you know how to fix a leaking sink until you fully understand that you could purchase a p trap from Home Depot that has a defect and will never work till you fix it with a razor blade or just toss it and buy another.

[@Bigmanfire]

i just want to let you know how much i appreciate your efforts and the information you are sharing. i was a single father of 1 15 year old a year and a half ago and since then i have gotten engaged and taken on FOUR more little people and realized i was not happy working for someone else and that i wanted to try to make something of myself that would provide for this NOT SO SMALL family i have recently found myself providing for. This is the 1st video of yours that i have watched and i am already so very thankful! thanks so much, and God Bless!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Good for you for taking on responsibilities in life. I hope you are rewarded for it tenfold with love and meaning in you life. Family is literally everything.

[@Itsdonk]

usually when someone tells me to like sub and comment, that is the last thing i am going to do, but this was a great video and i imagine you have many more. good work!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

No worries, if you feel there is value here then give back and if not I won't be offended. My focus is the business rather than the channel. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@Sport-ns5lk]

As a new person in the Handyman profession, I’m a cpl yrs into it and each week I find new issues, learn and update new techniques in general ~ this video was Very helpful, one of the best I’ve seen to cover pricing and building relationships with people. I tell everyone I work for I’ll treat their place as if it’s my parents place, most become friends over time. This is my best “report card” to evaluate my work.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

"My Parents Place". I like that!

[@donniccolo]

Good stuff! Instead of a trip fee, we just do a one hour minimum… and our clients all pay a monthly subscription fee just to be on our roster☮️💚🤙🏽

[@bulletproofhandyman]

That's awesome! I don't do hourly but there are plenty of methods that work.

[@mellowoodholdings5293]

Definitely true on hourly rate!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Yep!

[@stevenmeyer4320]

What if questions? What if you get injured? What if you have an illness? How do you take a vacation?

[@bulletproofhandyman]

If I'm sick I work anyways. If I'm injured I go to the hospital. I have insurance to cover missed work time if it's serious. Vacations are earned by working hard enough to put back the money.

[@yonmoore]

Good stuff. And I agree, finding someone who can do a wide variety of different things reasonably well, and problem-solve as needed is quite rare.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I think there are three skills that you don't often find all three of them together. Number one is of course being able to repair a wide variety of things. Number two is running a business. Number three is having the kind of people skills that make people comfortable with having you in their home. Two of those at the same time is somewhat rare, but to have all three of those skills simultaneously is not common at all.

[@mikemedeiros5036]

I LOVE YOU, YOU SPEAK YOUR TRUTH! YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL WISE SOUL. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE WITH US. I SUBSCRIBED WITHIN 2 MINUTES OF HEARING YOU SPEAK . HONESTY DOES NOT LIE

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you!

[@VinMotors0613]

Your proposition caught my interest, especially the potential to earn $600-$800 per day, with a $125 trip fee and no free estimates. This seems like an incredible business idea, offering the flexibility to set your own schedule instead of the typical 40-hour workweek under someone else's direction. I appreciate the valuable information - thanks! #newsubscriber #thumbsup

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Awesome! Thanks!

[@donanderson8786]

nice job. You nailed it. I am a handyman in Tampa, FL. Self Value is so important.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you

[@Sigala-.-]

You’re the man I wish I could shake your hand 🤚

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you sir.

[@gaineydodo]

My random scrolls on KZbin brought me to what I needed to see to help me and my business grow!!!!!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I love hearing that!

[@alphacampbell21]

I watched this video again, 9 months later, and I'm so glad I took your advice. I went from $50/hr to $95/hr in a year. You are so right that we are worth that $80-100/hr wage every hour of every day. They are not making more of us handymen, and of those who do it, very few do it professionally as you suggest. I go from job to job and notice how fewer and fewer basements have a shop with basic tools. People just don't realize until they need us that we are valuable on so many levels compared to a contractor who's 8 months out or a fly-by-night guy who drinks on the job and can't clean his own shoes. We are truly essential workers. I'm also a husband, father, and homeowner so I know how valuable my time is to myself and my family. You tell it straight and that means a ton, keep on keeping on and know that your videos can change lives. Thank you. -Aaron from ABC Punchlist in Seattle

[@bulletproofhandyman]

It sounds like you are on a great path. I love to hear that!

[@TheRealVsauce]

Or more depending on your demographic and skillset per ask(s)

[@TimBuckley22]

I’m a handyman in Australia and a stack of the points you make overlap to my business. I really liked how u articulated the estimate issue. Think I might clip that part and email it to my property managers.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Awesome!

[@chrisfawcett4440]

Good presentation, no fluff no b.s. im just getting started and I appreciate your insights….thanks

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're very welcome

[@MattC-ly9lr]

Great video! Great advice. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge, God bless you!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank You! You too!

[@srjlucky]

Visualization! I thought I was the only one who does just what you described. Thanks for sharing.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you!

[@milltownchris3090]

Appreciate it. I'm making the switch now from handyman for investors, to being all on my own. Thanks for the information.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!

[@elicose771]

This is what I was looking for, Thank you so much‼️💣💨💥💥

[@bulletproofhandyman]

That was exactly what was on my mind when I made this video. Every single video about pricing for handymen failed to answer the question of how much to charge.

[@chrisgraham2904]

All great information. Your right, it's not the task you have to perform as a handyman, it's the relief you provide to your customer. For a new handyman it is always challenging to establish an hourly rate. Keep in mind that an acceptable rate in New York City may be different from a small town is Louisiana. Wherever you are, call your local new car dealer, Ford, GM, Chrysler, or any other make and ask their hourly shop rate. If your local Chevy dealer tells you their rate is $138.00 per hour, that means they charge $138.00 per hour for complex engine rebuilds, but they charge the same rate to rotate your tires, or to replace a signal lamp. It's a good place to start to determine an acceptable labor/service rate in your particular area. Your customer realizes that home and property maintenance is important upkeep, just as regular annual maintenance is required to keep their vehicle operating efficiently. For a customer to be able to use their washroom again is just as important as being able to use their vehicle to go get groceries.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I think you're spot on. Rates probably shouldn't be too different from the dealer shop rates locally.

[@leontracey7067]

Hey man, I totally agree with everything you say. the secret is the secret is not to tell the customer How much hour you're making An hour. At the end of The invoice is gonna be job work.If a light bulb takes 5 minutes to do and you're charging a 100 an hour, And one twenty five a Trip fee How much is a total fee? Price?You said A reasonable time to do a job. Do you add that five minutes or double it? This is Tool box handyman service..

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Well to clarify, I don't charge hourly, but I do try to make sure that I'm never making less than 100 an hour. For something like a light bulb, it would just be the 125 trip fee plus the actual cost of the bulb.

[@jasonderriman5461]

Great information thanks from Australia 🇦🇺

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!

[@jamesgilham2805]

41 years old, & wanting to start my own business. After working so long for others, it's hard to start not knowing the out come, but I have a good base knowledge of a lot of things & believe I could be great.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

It's a scary leap, but if you provide reliability they will keep sending work.

[@Nepawhitetails]

I did it at 44 !!!

[@jakeschmidt4320]

I say you are very correct in how you approach the business. If you have a business and all you charge is $40 an hour you are losing money. Many expenses on top of that....tools transportation gas storage maintenance on all above. Then talk insurance and health insurance. Then tax time comes around......thats why a business with employees charge a minimum of 60 dollars an hour. But all of that is different from region to region.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I agree 💯

[@williamkatzer7824]

I love the "Estimate" speach. Bravo sir. Absolutely!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks!

[@Straitgate.144k]

Everything you said, YES

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks!

[@TheRealVsauce]

Let's talk $80 one offs ... how do you make sense of that as a business? I can't leave for under $260 minimum!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

My minimum is $125. However, 3 of the $80 one offs per day would be $240 per day. Even after business expenses and overhead that's as much pay for a 6 hour workday as what most people with jobs make in a day. The only people charging $80 for a trip fee would be inexperienced or in a rural area where the cost of living is low. And, the trip fee is just the minimum. An $80 trip fee can still be a $200 invoice for the right job.

[@TheRealVsauce]

@bulletproofhandyman ty. That make a wee bit more sense. I suppose $80 for a wee trip and light bulb is better than $0 too, then you can stack site visits or whatever on your time out ... point is there's options

[@etiennefournier3733]

Thanks for the video It was really worth listening From Canada

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome sir.

[@Dean-Sala]

Your vid just answered so many questions for me. I just landed landed a deal with a property management company(250 properties) and they are sending me many jobs. And now I know how to make estimates based on your advice. Especially about service call pricing. Your are absolutely correct. The owners just want the job done. Thank you so much!!!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!

[@Alexvalenc96]

So crazy because right now I've been apartment maintenance tech for 3 years....... And my old company sold so now im with a real estate commercial broker guy and I want to start an LLC because I know he's saving so much with me being hourly but no benefits whatsoever

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Yes sir. Do that, and be ok with losing him as a client. There are plenty of fish in the sea.

[@alexdecat3341]

You are a true legend. I like your style! It would be an honor to be in your presence. Keep up the hard work. Thanks for the real talk.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I appreciate the compliment but I hope we're all aware that despite having figured out a great way to build a handyman business, I'm most certainly failing in many areas of my life as well. I definitely have a long way to go before I can claim to have my shit together all around. But, you're welcome for the real talk. Thats luckily on the list of things I finally figured out in life. I love to bullshit and tell stories, but I also understand that when there are thousands of subscribers and hundreds of them are actively in the process of starting up their business, they really need me to tell them the truth about how this niche industry works. Jumping in is scary and it would have been cool to have a youtuber handyman give me a crash course in it before taking the leap. Thats mostly what this channel is I think, just a crash course for guys jumping in, or some slight strategy for those already in.

[@donniccolo]

Friendly pushback on your process for turns: you could save a lot of steps and time and energy just doing it on a fair hourly rate☮️💚🤙🏽

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Hourly rates don't work well with me. I'm always getting faster and better at my job. Hourly disincentivizes speed. I like getting faster and faster while still charging the same total rate.

[@donniccolo]

You do you! But with minimums, hourly rates are still effective...and the subscription is the real value! Annuity income is our best friend! We work for investors, rather than Mgmt Companies (take out the middle man, investors save $) and they appreciate both low cost and speed! Keep up the great work!@@bulletproofhandyman

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You keep it up too! Any billing structure is better than not having work!

[@brandnutopian]

Dude, you rock.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks!

[@mountain2sea899]

Thank you!!!! Now if I could just show this video to all of my customers so they understand what it takes. Subscribed

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Lol yeah!

[@jpelonrun6692]

I appreciate you! I’m in Phoenix Arizona and started doing handyman jobs. I’m still learning the quotes and thank you so much for the information ❤

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!!

[@jamesdondanville1008]

Awesome... yep... we are THE all trades.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Yes sir

[@handycrowd]

Wow, seems like the rates in the US are amazing! A days work putting up drywall in Europe would only get you 3-400 USD, no matter how you dress it up... Learning from you ;-)

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Good Luck!

[@Sharktankshank]

So valuable. Thank you for being direct and transparent.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!

[@allworldentertainment6782]

I like hearing this guy think and talk, I've been doing this over 20 years working for companies and also working for myself in between and his philosophy and the way he approaches Things are great. I have learned a lot listening to him.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I appreciate the compliment. Thank you. I'm really trying to get it figured out.

[@afathersjournal1584]

You are awesome man, you speak truth. To emphasize on the $80 to $100 a hour. - say after taxes and overhead your probably down to 70 a hour or 65. Not including private insurance.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I did a video not too long ago breaking down all the numbers and if you are charging in the ballpark of 100 an hour, that really ends up being about 40 an hour in your pocket after all the overhead including private health insurance.

[@afathersjournal1584]

@@bulletproofhandyman ah I see, I haven't seen your other video yet.

[@promotionusa]

Thank you for this great video And everything you do

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome!

[@mollymikna9354]

The point you make about visualizing the work before you do it is one I've also used for a while myself. When you walk through it in your mind you see every tool and product you'll need. This has saved me hours of working and shopping time because you are not prone to forget a key part or step in the repair process. Excellent advice!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks!

[@fixerupperer]

Ive evolved to naturally do this most times. I walk through the job or stages in my head and include tools and materials. Also see where things can go wrong

[@mikeneal4297]

I am starting my handyman quest today. Thank you for your time.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome! Good luck!

[@tennesseehandyman2427]

Bulletproof handyman, I like your videos. I started my business in 2018, and got sucked into doing remodeling and I don’t enjoy it. I’m wanting to get back to the basics and build up a clientele for small repair jobs. The problem I have is, all of the property managers in my area employ full time handymen at a ridiculously low rate, that I can’t compete with. Right now I’m working for friends, classified leads, and some realtors. I live in a small community, -50,000 people.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

How close is your nearest big city? I would sit down and do the math for the gas and your time to see how it works out. If you could pull 12 hour days 3 days a week, 2 of those hours being drive time, it could still be worth it.

[@Striperguide_pro]

This video popped up an hour ago after watching another handyman video. First video of yours I have watched. Tremedous information. Excellent content. New subscriber here. Thanks for video.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jushuadmcelroy]

I’m very happy to have came across your video, truly thank you for your time perspective and knowledge brother!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Glad it was helpful!

[@josuejl85]

Great video buddy🤝keep it up May God bless you all.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You too sir!

[@andrewunderwood8486]

You're a G. Thanks for the time. Well put together.

[@andrewunderwood8486]

Seriously, captivating for the entire 30 mins.

[@andrewunderwood8486]

The question is how you established your first relationships and how you broke out from the day job.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome, and thank you.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

It was just a lucky accident when a property manager called me. After that I sent emails to PM companies when I needed more work.

[@crcurley]

I am the handyman/general maintenance for an Airbnb company with 11 properties (mostly apartments), so most of my days are filled with move outs. I have emergencies here and there, usually a guest can't figure out how to operate the thermostat. It's great, but your video made me think some things over. Thanks.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Outstanding! I wish you the best!

[@rbennett-pr8nj]

Thanks!’ I have been doing residential repair work for longer than I can recall. I started with my dad,as a young kid,then helped the men in our neighborhood who were tradesmen from plumbers to painters to earn money,To earn money.over the years I have learned the correct way to repair or replace things in a house . I have a tremendous client base. I don’t advertise. Just referral.the problem for me has always been the amount of money to charge for the job! Many times I have charged to little!Thankyou Sir!’ For your sharing this Valuable information straight forward and no Bull 👍

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome and thank you!

[@ReneBalderas-i2z]

You are a blessing sir! Very straight to the point with no BS. I just subscribed. Thank you!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you! I'm glad it's useful!

[@michaelsmith9308]

I hope you're doing well as a family provider and with those children too! Thank you for the video:)

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you. I'm super close to achieving something that I feel is stable for my family, but I doubt I'll ever be done. I've been making sure that I take the time necessary for them as well. It never feels like enough but I'm putting in everything I can.

[@phillipdevers4075]

Awesome advice man! As a handyman contractor myself I can say that we are looked down upon a lot of times by other tradesman but usually know 10x what they do. My biggest problem is selling myself short trying to be fair to the customer and it ends up being an unfair deal to me. A good handyman is worth their weight in gold to a good customer and we should charge a rate that makes it worth the time of owning a business.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I like to remind myself that every dollar that I short myself is a dollar that I took from my family and gave to someone else.

[@jamesrecknor6752]

@@bulletproofhandyman Good point!

[@coreythomas9178]

Man I really appreciate giving your time for this video. This really helped make silense of everything

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thats Great!

[@lajuanjohnsonbtc9634]

You gave me so much great info . I can't help but to like & subscriber

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Awesome thanks!

[@mmpatriot2170]

Thank You! I just found your channel. I’ve recently moved my handyman business from Salt Lake City to the Park City, Utah, area and I’m in the process of building up my business here. Lots of vacation and rental homes around here. I’m good at what I do, and I’m getting better all the time. My biggest opportunity to increase my business is in many of the areas you covered in this video. So many good ideas. I just subscribed and I will be watching more as I grow my business. Thanks!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You sound like someone who is on that path. I hope you have great success!

[@jared696]

Great video. I recently started a home remodeling company after being head of maintenance for a property management company. This is the 3rd one I've watched from you and your info works for all businesses in our field. Keep 'em coming.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks for the confirmation!

[@Ediblezombie187]

Thank you for this vid. I've always undercut myself on pricing and I always feel like I get the short end on jobs. I definitely need to charge more and not feel bad about it.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I hope you do. It's the only way to stay in business. It's not easy but you'll be glad you did after a new way of life becomes normal.

[@donaldyurko1284]

I am not in the handyman business but do some small repairs for people who need help. This is BY FAR the best video I have ever seen on "what is my time/skill worth".

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you for the compliment sir. I made this video because nobody else ever actually tried to give a useful answer. Their answers are always "it depends". I'm glad it was helpful.

[@pedromeraz3501]

Thank you for the information you shared on KZbin videos on Handyman prices on the jobs site. I appreciate your videos, you gave me hand full of information on prices and invoices on Handyman job site. Thank you.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome sir.

[@Plexus37]

Can’t thank you enough for the ideas you suggested to me in this video. I live in a high concentration of vacation and mid length rentals. The move outs and rental check ups sounds like a great opportunity here. Especially as getting good work done here is difficult. I think you created my niche.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I didn't create it, I just stumbled into it lol. Short terms can be great. Usually higher income!

[@gonuts1]

Your Best Video Ever, THANKS!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks, and you're welcome!

[@sub.owen.create]

This information is gold. Super concise. Thanks for sharing brother.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're very welcome

[@boo7998]

Thank you. This is one of the best versions of this info I’ve ever heard of. And the motivation to VALUE yourself and your TIME is perfect!!!!!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

It works, just follow through on your end and it will work.

[@collinwmorgan1132]

Ive seen a lot of great handyman channels but you are the best as far as IN DEPTH onformation. Im switching my entire handyman structure thanks to your help. Im currently in Alabama, 24 years old full time doing this. Thank you sir 🙏

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you. Good luck!

[@Real_Rob_Reels]

I am just starting my business out and this video was a huge help with some aspects I was cloudy on. Thank you!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You are very welcome.

[@keith_hudson]

Well that was freaking excellent

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks!

[@robertwilson2205]

You hit home at the end when talking bout providing for your family. Great information. Thank you

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Yes, thats the backbone of anything and everything I do. I take an hour or two later at night for myself, but my waking hours when the rest of the family is awake is all for them in one way or another.

[@wittelarry1]

Great information. I just started Kingman Drain Service in Arizona.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Good luck to you!

[@gracefellowship9494]

I still think you’re one of the best handyman on KZbin as in being successful, having your head on your shoulders and being able to break everything down the way you do to explain in ways for people to learn. I mean hell, I could go back through your video and practically put an itemized price list together and start running. I believe for this topic, it is one of the most thorough lessons out there. So now I do have a question for you. How would one gauge specific demographics and in which areas would be most profitable to start working in when starting out? Thank you so much for your time and effort. God bless you and your family

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thanks! As far as demographics go, if you're focusing on property management then population of the city matters more than anything. If you're in a smaller town or rural area consider traveling, even with a longer commute, to work in a large city. That's where your skills are most in need. If you have enough experience that you can prove then consider searching for high end rentals online and try to sign on with the companies that rent out those properties.

[@Dtileandremodeling]

Well done. I agree with your methods.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Awesome, thanks!

[@francismay5734]

Solid advice, i really liked the "visualization" technique, you use. Of everything you mentioned there are only 2 things i dont do, but will now. The visualization, and charge for estimates. Tip of the hat to you my good sir.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

Thank you sir.

[@skillfulwebdesign]

Thank you for all of the amazing value, you deserve your success!

[@bulletproofhandyman]

You're welcome and thank you!

[@dennisleblanc7933]

Thanks for you're video, keep them coming, we learn a lot from your experienced as a handyman. I am semi-retired and typically only work 4-5 hours per day 4 days a week. My current rates are low, but I will be increasing them starting the new year. This gig is fun and it's only supplemental income! I am a retired Navy Chief who likes to stay busy but can easily control my work hours.

[@bulletproofhandyman]

I look forward to the day that I'm in your shoes. I love what I do but it's aging me fast.