I'm Done With Manual Labor | My Plan To Get Out | THE HANDYMAN BUSINESS |

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

Check the links in the description about employee salary's. A lot report the median salary. That means that 50% make less than that number and 50% make more than that number. See the old livestreams here www.patreon.com/thehandyman

[@noahholt482]

Have over 100 satisfied customers with great reviews . But not many referrals am I targeting the wrong customers ?

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

@@noahholt482 You have to tell your customers to refer you. Come up with a spiel they you say to every customer. Something along the lines of " My only advertising comes from happy customers. Please tell your friends and family about the work I can do for them. " You have to remind them too. Also follow up with a thank you email to every customer and agan remind them to tell their friends and family.

[@bernieyancey2087]

“ My plan to get out” I guess was a catchier title than, “How I got in”?

[@b.powell3480]

One problem I come across is now that our country is in hyperinflation, most customers are in sticker shock for an r&r of a water heater, where it's running around $3500.00 dollars for everything, including the installation labor !!

[@MA-fh4vb]

What's your IG channel?

[@MacLethal]

Make sure, if you’re in the trades, that you’re eating properly and doing yoga/stretching. Maybe even see a physical therapist. Yes it taxes your body, but you can minimize the damage with preventive care. Keep your weight on point. Eat healthy foods. Stretch stretch stretch and get good sleep.

[@burkles4456]

I’ve always been curious about this because the typical tradesman is a chain smoking, alcoholic who lives off of fast food and gas stations. Most I’ve met couldn’t give a fuck less about taking care of themselves.

[@grahammccoll5505]

I really don't even think it is that taxing if you treat your body properly and use good form. Larry Haun was doing carpentry into his 80's and moving better than guys I see on the job site in their 20s. (I also think a lot of the food people eat today is basically poison compared to what real food is)

[@Matt-ix6ne]

A key element is to make sure you take care of your body, especially if you are in a trade. Example: wearing ear protection, knee pads ext.. Take collagen for your joints and make sure to stretch in the morning before work. Little things like this can help so much over time! I love doing hands on work, especially if you have a mentality of serving your community. Eventually I want to get out of the field but I enjoy having a practical skill and learning. Literally everyday I see and do something new

[@swatisquantum]

I have my own business and property management company and couldn’t agree more. I love doing something physical for at least 1-4 hrs per day. It keeps me grounded in this digital world. High demand for good work right now.

[@imout671]

I owe you so much for your advice and encouragement. I backed into this as a landlord in 2008 and now my 3rd year in business as a home repair/ one man show. I've never had it so good in my life just because I listened to your business tips and charge a lot more.

[@sloppyjonuts9162]

I thought it was just me Apprentice plumber ..barely They have me basically as a driver for a 30 maybe late 20s year old man that has a DUI. Pathetic..I’ve lost hope..I want to be my own boss…believe me I do

[@johnnyroycerichardsoniii3273]

@@sloppyjonuts9162 no you’re just a snowflake..

[@natty4life387]

I've been in remodeling since 2001. Worked for contractors probably 17 out of 21 years. The last two years for myself. Just turned 40 and it's been so nice choosing my homeowner's and jobs. I was just sick of the crappie homeowner's and not being in control of the entire project. I'm hoping to do furniture in my shop and possibly photography. There was no way my body would make it. The best part, I have so much time for my kids! I'm good after 20 plus. I don't regret any of it, it made me strong throughout my life.

[@knifetex]

I got into Welding Inspection and Commercial Building Inspection about 6 years ago when I was 42. Lots of climbing around, lots of driving, but no heavy lifting. Better than a desk job for me since I move around a lot. Money is good- not quite 6 figures, but good enough for my needs and then some. Certs are everything in my field. After years of hard work as a roadie, carpenter, and welder this is easy breezy. Get some Certs!

[@chingonbass]

how does one get into welding inspection?

[@Nota.cyclist]

Look into CWI and non destructive testing certs

[@AnthonyAlvarado78]

Don't worry...you'll need 7 figures soon with this inflation shit.

[@briansaben5697]

@@AnthonyAlvarado78 Inflation is temporary.

[@AnthonyAlvarado78]

@@briansaben5697 hahaha good joke. Just like how assistance programs are temporary.

[@BamaBreeze]

Handyman I only found you a few months ago after I retired. 37 years in telecom and I always was a diy guy, plus worked on countless church projects with pros in their respective field. So I know what you’re saying about how to estimate time to do a job. I respect your views and appreciate your advice as I consider myself a novice in running my own handyman business. The key is set your goals. Mine are different than yours but the same principles apply to doing great customer service. In just a few months I already have repeat business from my first few customers. There are so many bad ‘drunks with pickup trucks’ to use one of your lines that just being presentable and doing the job right will pay dividends. Best of luck and I look forward to each video.

[@aussiesoulsurfer553]

I have a desk job however on weekends I help my stepdad with his concreting business as a labourer, it’s not all glitz and glory like they portray it to be.

[@sthomas7211]

There is no short cuts. Go out and fix stuff. See how things go together. Learn the order in which things get done . Follow through with jobs. Do what it takes to get it done in timely manner . It's the Start that stops most people. It's no different than buying a model car and putting in the extra little detail to make the job look great instead of good

[@billysyms5761]

When I was 16 years old, I rebuilt a carburetor on my 1973 Mazda RX4. I tell folks today that was far more complicated than anything I have done in remodeling homes.

[@ogfight]

Excellent Advice!

[@kenseymour5152]

I’m 51 years old been in the trades sense 19 years old I’ve had 2 back surgeries my shoulder is shot and my knee hurts so think hard about it before you get into it.

[@johnnybear111]

Another transition for the handymen out there is to get into owning rentals, then you can maintain everything yourself and often at your own pace.

[@jacobweber9956]

This is good stuff. Iv been in the skilled manual labor world for nearly ten years. I'm nearing 30. Im working on transitioning into being more of a leader than a laborer. It's a whole different deal. Thanks for making this it gives me something to look forward to.

[@seanras1965]

I worked as a maintenance technician for a 178 unit apt complex for 10 years. We did everything in house and taught me a ton. 3, almost 4 years in business now and love it.

[@GS-bk9sj]

I did 30 years straight running my own Limousine hire business. I got out at 50 years old when Uber decimated the industry. I got my carpenters licence and am now a registered builder with the government authority. I now do remodelling and all types of handyman work and love it. Money is not the motivation and that is the key why I am so happy to do this at 53 years old now. The manual labour doesnt bother me and will keep going until it does. I enjoy the interaction with customers and finishing with high quality that exceeds customers expectation. The most lucrative work for me now is hanging doors. That is the niche I am milking and earning 3k a week for 20 to 30 hrs, beacuse I have no competetion, and all doors eventually need replacing. When I see a peckerhead driving down the road in a Ferrari I quietly think to myself he is driving a Ferrari but can he hang a door? The joy when a door is finished and smoothly closes shut for the first time is like a woman giving birth. Ill finish with the classic saying that is true for all in this game "It s not how you start its how you finish".

[@sundog8772]

I feel like I’m not buying your story…

[@GS-bk9sj]

@@sundog8772 what story? What are you on about?

[@Zb_Calisthenic]

3k a week on 20 hrs niceeeee

[@EricFapton]

I knew a guy who was roofing at 78 still, he only retired because they forced him too. He never wanted to stop doing manual labor.

[@lonedesertfox]

They should have never made him stop!

[@drott150]

That's incredible. When I was young I worked with some old WWII combat vets in their 70s laying 12 inch block in the brutal sun and high humidity. One of them advised to me _"Son, get yourself a nice office job inside..."_

[@steelvalleysportsmen7737]

Good lord when you talked about hiring employees and being the only guy on a crew who had never been to prison. I was working as a steel worker in western PA I was college help at the time. My entire crew had some felony or another. A lot of fun working with them though. In terms of hiring it feels impossible anymore.

[@mrkraymnd]

Im just a homeowner but I love all aspects of home improvement. I often find what separates the regular-Joe (who has done a few repairs) and a skilled labor person is not only knowing the skills of the trade but also knowing the codes and how to do something “right”. I love your idea of /learning on someone else’s dime/ and /knowing how much to charge for a job/ - very cool, thank you sir. PS I have a desk job but I like to know the inner workings of how homeowner contractor folks think

[@billysyms5761]

Who owns the business where you work? Check him / her out, that's how we think.

[@chrisburns5691]

the whole concept of apprenticeship. need to put in time and learn before going out and starting a business.

[@indiopatarajada9670]

@@chrisburns5691 I think it’s the low skill blue collar guys (warehouse/manufacturing guys, or even commercial demo guys, drywallers or framing guys) that typically give it the bad name. They have that trade adjacent job or even a lower tier trade job (usually on the commercial side, where their fuck ups are easy to hide) so they claim they can handle ANY residential job with ease. Usually butchering plumbing, finish carpentry, electrical and tile jobs.

[@1234GOPRO]

Your right it’s like watching professional athletes. They make it look effortless and they have the right tools for the job. Safety is usually a high priority, says a lot as well.

[@kevinkolinen6181]

I think we’d all love to here all the “stories”!

[@andrewprince3003]

hired two guys last week. One worked 2 days and left...one told me he couldnt start until this week and never showed LOL...its a huge challenge...I'm moving towards building spec homes and just subbing everything out...I truly love framing but I cant do it forever im 44 and my back, and feet are about shot. Love your vids man you speak truth and wisdom

[@sirjohnahayfalcon]

drink grapejuice

[@andrewprince3003]

@@sirjohnahayfalcon whats that do for an old beat up carpenter LOL?

[@LoneWolfRanging]

But how much are you paying.

[@andrewprince3003]

@@LoneWolfRanging $20 to $25 per hour. thats great money in my city. and these guys werent worth $13 an hour in my opinion

[@donaldlee6760]

Have you considered the Vietnamese business model? Just hire your family members to do the work. The benefits are everyone works with the common goal of growing the business and the benefits go to all members, family members generally have a good work ethic and possibly well educated, and the chance of a family member being a former convict is about zero. The primary downside is your business only grows to how big your family is.

[@GuitarPrzezdziecki]

Right on the mark Handyman! "Go out there and learn how it's really done." It takes TIME to LEARN - patience and perseverance. Lots of great take-aways from your videos! I've watched every single one on both channels. Now, I may have to join Patreon 😆 Great to have you back on KZbin!

[@harpjason208]

Key take- away..... Don't be average.... I do floor covering repairs and carpet repairs and restretches... I average per hour worked $100.00 per hour. I am debt free sans the house. I don't work 8 hour days. I usually work 3-4 hour days on average. Some days less and some days more. Get DEBT FREE. I have lots of spare time to get other ventures launched.

[@ogfight]

That's a great niche profession. High demand. Low overhead. High net income. Take care of your knees.

[@marvineid3085]

A simple Thank you is needed. Great honest info. 20 years in the trades back breaking, knee damaging labor.

[@davemotti4283]

Best vid I’ve ever seen on biz side. Excellent thank you

[@rezzbuilds8343]

I got into all this is to eventually be a builder and do little to no labor. But somewhere along the way I fell in love with the labor side of the work. Sheathing roofs in the sunlight with the shirt off feeling like Tarzan. So it's easy to lose sight of the original exit plan. But it is the wise thing to do

[@ogfight]

I agree. I got into swimming pool service over 20 years ago to put myself through college. Quickly quit school because I love being out in the sunshine (and rain) being paid to get fit and tan. Love it!

[@p_versus_p2547]

A good place to grow as a handyman is with big property managers. Their contractor applications are usually online and super easy. There is not a lot of pressure working in a house where there is a tenant or no one at all. Also the jobs will be mostly very simple, toilet valve, garbage disposals, etc.

[@superintendo8912]

Great video just got into construction as a supervisor then a assistant superintendent I used to lay turf in the summers and I worked a pressure washing job for 8 months. It's nice that I have somewhat a experience dealing with customers and knowing certain things. I'm only 21 and I actually love working construction and I wanna run my own job one-day. Manual labor is hard work and that's why I always give our subs the utmost respect

[@myronmarsh7582]

Everything you have said is so true! I burned my body out after 40 years. Complete hip replacement and fused back. I’ve yet been able to retain quality workers inspite of paying well, and trying to keep it like “family”. There’s far too many sad stories with their life stories. Just trying to keep the drugs, alcohol, probation issues, and general rude behavior out of the customers presence. It’s mind boggling!! I’m done with trying to convince people to act right and work.

[@SomeOne-yv8jf]

Then do the work yourself. Stop living off your employees' work by hiding behind "business ownership". If you own the business then do your business, don't hire others to do your business for you. Feudalism is dying. All workers should own their work and pay.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Share it brother! Truth Spoken,, good advice for all folks looking to be their own boss and how its really done!

[@dwarden3]

My time was 45. It was overnight, one day fine next day everything hurt.

[@josearredondo1267]

Bro your right on point on everything you said.

[@posty1111]

This definitely resonates with me as I am in that age range of 30-40. I know the soar back and joints all too well and chose to focus more on refinishing and updating. I sub out all flooring and tile work and charge in the higher end of my comfortability. Wealthy people want to know they are getting what they pay for. But yes I am looking at other aspects of the business that are less labor intensive and profitable like making my own cabinets and doors on cnc. We will see if the current market in the area can support it...

[@toocoolfor48]

Look into mold mitigation for water damage...$2800- $12,000 a week...average.....I come in, tear out the water damaged areas, photograph the mold...take a sample and send it to ProLabs overnight....If it is 10 square feet or more it must be treated as toxic....I.Use an approved antimicrobial mold killer (never use germicidal bleach), install a containment barrier (3 mil plastic) and place an air scrubber within the containment barrier for 7 days.....charge $400 a day..Insurance doesn't even blink at the charge....

[@jeffshackleford3152]

CNC cabinets is volume work. So are CNC doors. You have to learn how to make and sell fancy doors, systematize it, and find someone who will not be intelligent enough to steal your system to do it for yoy.

[@joshc3792]

What is great about this video is that I think the wisdom being shared in this video is applicable for even those of us in the non-manual labor camp-though the path for independence is less obvious sometimes.

[@mattfischer7835]

I’d rather be sore and achy at fifty with knee replacements and arthritis than be the overweight fella who spent the last 30 years sitting in a chair 8 hours a day dying of heart disease. Motion is lotion. Two sides of the equation. Thanks for the content.

[@didafm]

Agreed.

[@steverodriguez2582]

Maybe he plans to be between that spectrum

[@josemv25]

Doesn't matter how much you move if your diet is shit. Pretty sure there are plenty of people with office jobs who are a lot healthier than you

[@robscanlan]

Agree. There’s so much info out there on how to take care of your body at an older age w/the proper diet, stretches and breathing exercises. I honestly feel like construction workers will be like the athlete’s nowadays who were to prolong their careers compared to previous generations.

[@user-bp4qq7tt1u]

Just because you sit at a computer for 8 hours doesn't mean you're gonna be obese lmao that's dumb. It's called working out after work.

[@ThomasGapinski]

Your videos are really informative. Customer service is so important to long term business success.

[@Bdigital9482]

One of the most informative videos about this field I’ve ever seen. Social media can be your best friend and worst enemy. To any young guy listen to this and be well rounded and be patient it won’t happen overnight in most cases.

[@pjdambra]

New Subscriber. I'm a retired Locksmith that understands where you are coming from. You give some Great Advice. Good Luck finding your way out. I'm 73 and the phone still rings daily.

[@Abutado]

I'm only 33 and I'm getting tired of using my body to make money. I want to start using my brain to make money and save my body for the fun stuff.

[@scottfeatherstone7156]

Good to see yo back, great advise, thanks Handyman!

[@TechieTard]

From my teens to 39 I felt like thunder, I was a damn machine. And one day the man upstairs snapped his fingers and from that day forward, I knew I was mortal :(

[@cpowell4227]

I'm dreading it also

[@kcjones6034]

Your live streams are great. You read and answer questions in the chat which is super cool 🖖😎.

[@rytjson4487]

150k last year as service technician doing industrial refrigeration

[@EnriqueLopez-df3or]

As a business owner as a handyman/contractor in business now for two years this year. I have come across a few hiccups with hiring people it’s been rough especially now with people not wanting to work. I started as a Union carpenter for 3 years than when Covid hit work went down so I jumped into starting my own business. Did some marketing an different sites and used anti and home advisor than got on with property managers I now work with 7 management companies and doing fairly well. I do wish I would have been smart and put money aside for sure. Haha

[@EnriqueLopez-df3or]

@@shawnwest3779 I don’t pay crap wages lol. They get paid good.

[@-dawgsontop]

Yea Shawn how's that working out for everyone? I own a landscaping business, start pay 10-13 an hour before this bullshit a pack of bacon was 4.50, now pay goes to 15-18 an hour and a pack of bacon is $11. Hmm, that doesn't sound like higher wages for "crap" job's is working out to well

[@EnriqueLopez-df3or]

I’m paying my guys $20 lol

[@-dawgsontop]

@@EnriqueLopez-df3or experienced, good worker's, people that show up and do their job get that plus some here in georgia. My point is directed to his comment, people want more many and have a shitty work effort on top of higher cost of living. Inflation has only hurt small business owners and it's employee's, people think they're making more an hour but with the cost of living, honestly probably making less

[@-dawgsontop]

@@shawnwest3779 haha, no just throwing my middle finger up saying to hell with the participation trophy crowd. You want something? EARN IT!! As far as the pLandemic goes you clowns can go on with that shit too many of us never stopped, and WILL NOT STOP! Do whatever makes you feel safe, I won't judge anyone for that because that's my raising but people who want to force their views or opinions on me can kiss my proud to be an American ass!!

[@sketchyfrog]

Before going out on my own many years ago, I too was often the only one who hadn't went to prison on the jobsite 😂 if you think drunk people at a bar are bad, get a look at Joe, drunk at 7am running a concrete saw lmao.

[@ToolDeals]

Awesome video. I haven't really made any financial videos. People prefer my tool videos more... LOL. But as a financial planner and business consultant. I always tell people that their exit strategy is just as important as getting started. In addition to that, when starting a business, ALWAYS work in the field first. Get paid to 1. Learn, as you said and 2. Figure out whether you REALLY like this type of work or not! Again, great video!

[@trulyhappy8855]

This is the best video on KZbin. Period.

[@BobsPlumbingVideos]

Truer words were never spoken my friend, Great Job!

[@SINSTER7THREE]

Great advice for anybody in the business. The #1 handyman knows his stuff!

[@superman9772]

well there handyman, i really like your videos. i like how you take the time to explain and show to young men/persons about learning . i believe you're trying to get them to learn how to think... cause that's how you succeed in life... i appreciate that. you discuss how a lot of young persons (and i was young once) fail to apply self discipline to their life and end up in trouble before they even start out and then they almost kinda just give up and just start grabbing at the easiest and cheapest shiny and fun thing in front of them. then others kinda become so fixed in their ways and methods that they never are able to adapt and learn new better and faster ways or work with new materials... in the end, business is the same as trust between persons. the more you build up the trust someone has in your skills, knowledge and ability (ska) then the more they will pay you for that...you are absolutely right as well that a person needs to track their time, material costs, and tools... it is very important as that is how you able to give honest and valued answers to honest questions about value and costs which is how you build trust....

[@picklerix6162]

I worked my butt off during my 20’s unloading trucks and working in HVACR installation and service. I finally figured that I couldn’t crawl through attics until retirement so I saved up and went back college.

[@mitchverhulst8912]

I Started working in my family building business at 15 and understood business quite well at 20/21 and was working as a subcontractor for other builders. then after 2 years returned to the family business as the project manager, estimator etc ran the business from 24-28 when i injured my back and havent worked in manual labour since. now i am studying Business

[@bryaninthenorth920]

So insightful as always. Thanks for the awesome content!.. Never was a "skilled trade" type of worker, but have many hours with my dad who was, and bought a "fixer upper"... learned so much here and "on the job"

[@MyDIYBuilds]

I had my full remodeling contractor’s license at 26 years old and I had only been full time in the trade for 5 years…just gotta know the right people!

[@BlueCollarSlave]

This is the horse shit I can't get around.

[@MyDIYBuilds]

@@BlueCollarSlave I did have to take a class and a test, but the contractor I worked for wrote me a letter of recommendation so I didn’t need any schooling or a zillion years experience or anything like that.

[@billysyms5761]

In California the only real thing that stops you from obtaining a license is the fee. If you can afford the fee to take the test and pass it, you're a licensed professional.

[@michaelsj8084]

@@billysyms5761 I thought you needed four years of experience in California

[@eagleeye5890]

Excellent video...you speak the real, raw truth.....you are a great resource of real world experience....Listen up folks, this man knows what he is taking about...only wish I had this resource 30 years ago....

[@ericwhite6417]

Oh my...all of these people that dont take care of themselves crying about being sore LOL EVERYONE is in pain...most people that DONT do manual labor hurt even more

[@Asomesauc]

Handyman story time sounds like a good video anyone else 👍🏻

[@mrharlemike28]

Great information! Thank you for sharing this knowledge/wisdom! Ju da man!

[@Johnnyreengo]

Good to see you back

[@04051988ism]

Great vid. Great points. Well done

[@BlueCollarSlave]

This video speaks to me. 33. Ready to start my own thing. Spent my whole life helping my dad do renovation work. Did some plumbing for a year, 10 years of heavy construction, pipe and foundation work for stripmalls and condos. Military before that. While my body feels 10 years older than I am, I've got some little ones to look out for and just can't stop the labor grind. Going solo is lucrative. I've now accumulated enough tooling and experience/common sense to tackle the work. But whats the best approach for getting the target customers? I get more time invested in getting the work than doing it!

[@billysyms5761]

If you're in a place like Los Angeles, be better than the other guy. There's a market for the low-priced guy in every city. In a city of 12 million people there's also a niche market for the right guy.

[@clayjones553]

I'm 32 and been on my own with construction/remodeling/handyman for 3 years now. Work by myself. Sounds like you have as much or more experience than I did when I started. I've been consistently busy since the day I started, but thats partly due to living in my hometown where a lot of people hire me because they know me. If thats not the case for you you may need to advertise until you build some contacts. There aren't nearly enough people going into this field, so its wide open, and will probably be even more so in the coming years. I'd say go for it! If you just call people back and keep your word and do good work, you won't have any problem making a decent living. Good luck

[@billysyms5761]

@@clayjones553 I wish there were more guys like you out there. Show up, show up on time. That alone will separate you from 99% of the competition!

[@User-zl9pj]

Looks like I'm following your path. Since 18 I've remodeled houses with my pops so learned every trade, left at 24 to do rebar, carpentry and cement in construction. 25 now. I'm one year into it but this ain't it , I look around the site and I see all the other trades chilling and laughing , not busting their ass off and making more than us. It's time to switch things up again, still deciding on that

[@billysyms5761]

@@User-zl9pj All I know is with the dumbing down of construction practices, these work sites are where good workers go to die. Don't let these guys chilling and laughing fool you either. When you're on your own you're working your ass off, you're just getting the lions share of the money. Having work to do is the key, where you go from there is up to you.

[@justinreilly4111]

great video handyman. Looking forward to the live stream. As always, I appreciate your knowledge.

[@EricCampbellUAV]

Emmanuel Labor still drywalling in his 70s

[@matthewm3315]

Good luck with the channel.

[@ryandallavia]

Man you know I had to order a couple of those mugs when I saw that. Nice!

[@gregkump3639]

I'm 63. This man is telling the truth! Pay attention to every single trade. Even your own trade. As a self employed GC. You don't have to know how to wire a house, but you better know when Sparky is lying!

[@Zb_Calisthenic]

Greg, that last line.... That's a OG line 👍🏻😅

[@Johndoe309]

I'm a painter..work for the old man.. no popcorn ceiling removal professional here...infact I've done it three times decided while work is plentiful not to do those... don't hang drywall... mostly exterior blow and rolls indoor remodel... we do do a lot of patch work or crwck fixing but for now the young new guys can scrape the ceilings and have all the low budget property maintenance..

[@darkartwerkz916]

loved this video bro, so many clueless posers in the worlds, this one and the real one. Keep keeping the secret. It's not free, cost me my body, insulation, retrofit residential new res and commercial architectural coatings for 12 years then worked at a general as foreman for 9 while doing mobile VW repair on the side to gain more savvy, then worked at VW shop to learn how they got successful. Finally after all that and more, I am flipping old school VWs at almost 49 years old, spending every cent I make on tools am now finally making a go at my passion.

[@smashbashcrashrc5429]

Manual labor is what separates men from the boys. Growing up on a farm and stacking hay and now being a framer for 10 years is something I would not give up. It teaches you ethic and how to power through. It's also very rewarding

[@SireMoringstar]

I wouldnt say that lol Work smarter not harder a web dev lift a finger makes 60-300k a labor worker lifts a truck makes 20-70k

[@chrisburns5691]

​@@SireMoringstar you can do well in both fields. Coding jobs are more prone to replacement from AI. Self employed tradesman can do very well, well into 6 figures, if they can actually run a profitable business.

[@SireMoringstar]

@@chrisburns5691 I suppose but it can also open jobs to people willing to adapt to evolve ai

[@trevorstorey2793]

Get into Appliance Repair. I worked for a company for 2 years and went out on my own. I now gross 250K a year with just me and a phone operator/office assistant. I'm a happy clam.

[@sirdavidalot]

It's almost impossible to get appliances repaired in my city

[@mikemetz82]

Ordered 6 mugs. Will make great gifts for my vendors! Thanks Handyman!

[@MichaelJohnson-jt5cu]

I work at a Bio-Refinery, the welders make about $80,000 a year and with overtime they make $100,000 plus. With experience you can build a business and then hire a few people and train them in and manage the business and get out of the physical part of doing the work. You can grow the business as large as you like if you can manage work, money and people, it is a full-time job running a company.

[@jeffshackleford3152]

@@sparksmcgee6641 Well inherently people are motivated to get the most for the least, so in a way everyone is a cheapskate.

[@AceEverett]

That's why I like my appliance repair work. A lot less manual labor, and it takes enough mental work that I don't have to compete which many Joe Shmoes. My handyman work is just that, handyman jobs, not full remodels. My father wants me to take over his remodel business, but it's just him and 1 employee. I keep telling him he needs to run the business full time now that he's 50+, not be half the labor.

[@toocoolfor48]

I started out late (50) with my own business. I am now 58.... I have been in the trades off and on for 42 years, usually when I needed extra money. I never realized How much can be made as an owner. I have been averaging 142,000 the last few years with a profit range of 70% to 90%.....My biggest income comes from Mold Remediation/Mitigation and Restoration......I have backed off the restoration part and just farm it out for a piece of the profit...The mold mitigation averages $2800 per home per week...... Finding that special niche that pays good money for not too much physical labor is a godsend.....I really think you should do a more in depth show about people finding their best skill and using it to their best advantage. I like your advice and reality checks for people. Thank you for that

[@kendalllang4815]

I've talked wages with a fair amount of contractors and it varies significantly. Some pay little over minimum wage and wonder why their turn over is really high. Others pay way above the average because they would rather have high retention on high quality workers than have to keep hiring. Those that choose to pay, who know how to do the business side of things well, tend to grow and retain costumers.

[@Dillwithit180]

Been watching you for awhile now. Stay awesome my dude.

[@jeffjohnson2977]

Good to cya Handyman it's been awhile, as always great information!

[@MrBudpln]

Great video Handyman, you turned me on to markate and it changed my business in a big way hat's off to you

[@kbbb4227]

This should be viewed in our schools, along with how to manage a checking account.

[@TheJjonesx2002]

Just caught up, watched them all. Great channel!

[@endlessmindset8808]

Yup, after thinking long and hard about it - I decided to close my house painting business 2 years ago and now I'm working as a data center engineer. After realizing how sore I am at 28 years old, I knew this wasn't going to be a career I could do until I was 65-70.

[@Spookytooth92]

....need help? Lol

[@declineofthewest.]

I work in several local data centers as a subcontractor. Love it. At 39 I hear you loud and clear. I’ve done everything from poured concrete walls to finish carpentry. I feel very blessed.

[@theglowcloud2215]

Working in tech fucking sucks.

[@op8995]

I made the same decision in my late 20s...went into software development and never looked back.

[@swatisquantum]

I left software engineering for managing and collecting rent from my rentals. If I could see myself retiring in tech at 60-70 with decent retirement cash flow, I would’ve stayed in tech. Tech is moving so fast, I was uncertain if I could collect a check 20 years from now.

[@robertmorris5168]

As a young man I started looking to the guy that knew the most, the then became my mentor whether he knew it or not I would watch and learn all I could. Then I would get a new job and find the guy that knew more than me and I would learn everything I could. After many years of this, I then started on my own still watching and learning from the guy that knew more and trying to learn new things. I went into flipping houses and learned most trades but I also learned t look for better people in the trades to do the things that I don't want to do. I have never advertised and I have never sat at home looking for work.

[@topsecretbear9918]

The best info is always kept in ppl's back pockets.

[@chrism2042]

$100k+ as a welder, electrician and many other trades is easily possible (in some locations with unions). I live in the Southeast where that is not common. Around 2003, I was offered a job as a electrical superintendent starting at $95/hr, but it was with a union. Age vs manual labor. As a teen, I started working as a electrical helper doing residential jobs. Went in the Army at 17, got out and went back into electrical. At age 26 I was a State licensed electrical contractor working as a plant electrician in a industrial plant and doing electrical, hvac and architectural designs as a sub-contractor for engineers and architects. At 28, I had a commercial/industrial electrical contracting business with average 35+ employees, doing restaurants, medical buildings, schools, aircraft facilities and projects in industrial plants. With those years working on ladders and lifts, heavy lifting and so on, working on jobsites every day with my guys then doing engineering jobs and the business portion nights and weekends. At 37 I was feeling the body issues and told my Wife that I was thinking about switching gears, before age 50, I do not want to be climbing ladders wearing a 35 lb tool pouch 12 hours a day. Then at 38 I collapsed in the living room, my Wife got me help. So at 38 I was getting a heart cath., later the doctor came in my room with my Wife sitting there and said, "your body is as healthy as a athlete but I can almost promise you, if you don't reduce some stress in your life, you probably will not see your next birthday". My body, especially my knees had been telling me I needed to make a change, now the doctor is giving me a warning "in front of my Wife"! My options were, hire more foremen and keep building the electrical business while building my engineering business or go to a larger city and get on as a multi-trade inspector. I opted to slowing get out of electrical contracting and go full time engineering, working solo from home office doing architectural engineering for commercial and industrial projects. On my 50th birthday I told my Wife, I was so glad I made the decision to get out of the field when I did. Now at 54, the daily knee and shoulder problems reminds me I made a good decision, doctor has already told me I will probably be facing knee replacements in the near future. I have no regrets working in the field all those years, my engineering background would not be close to the same without the years of field knowledge.

[@zplitterz]

I am 42. Started serioisly sweeping chimneys in 2018. 2019 I patterned my job after most of the industry in the USA. Nobody in my area was doing other than the old school push brush and use the homeowners ladder. I got insurance, certifications, LLC, spent tons of time talking to guys who offered phone advice. Now its repairs, relining, installing, inspections.

[@MikeWitmerNatureJournal]

Worked over 40 yrs. in my own painting business. Have a few workers now but still cannot get away from being on all the jobs every day. It now feels like having two fulltime jobs keeping the business going with bids and assorted deskwork and then handholding the crews whose productivity plummets if I am not around to push. Tough business. i won't last forever.

[@didafm]

This is sol true.

[@brianbordenkircher52]

Yep. In any line of work. I agree, people should learn how the business is run and works

[@jamesphee5184]

No matter what career anyone chooses in life one must put in the work and truly understand their field if they are to go out on their own and be successful. It’s a long way to the top if you want to rock ‘n’ roll!

[@anthonygriffin1147]

Been using Markate for 2 years now. Well worth the cost.

[@RM-lk1so]

I'm amazed at the simplicity of your content, as well as the way its delivered. At 55, I'm an employee and hate it. Insee all the money and freedom that's afforded those that are self employed. I've been self employed on several occasions. The first was at the age of 24. Broke into subbing from a carpenter contractor. Doing simple roof sheeting. LOVED IT. I was smashing it. After that got into comp shingles. Laborer and then shingler. Then within a year was on my own. At 26 was smashing it again. 1800-2500 a week in 95. Surfed in KC then to Phoenix. Did the union thing. Carpenter Not my gig. Went out as a handyman. After working for others. Remodeling Additions. Renovations. Wood rot And so on. I seem to be comfortable with the guy who can handle all the ADMIN. SO.....QUESTION.... how to be self employed and not get all wrapped up in the congestion of Administration crap? I wanna work and make money. Great money. But working for another guy...(?)? He takes all the credit and my money. I make cash. 40$ it's been on and off for a couple years. I work on the books. Then off. Here and there. As in said. At 55....the bags are getting heavy man. The knees and the shoulders are feeling the pain. My work is super clean. Question 2. I've seen some hack work. Questionable at best. Makes me wince. I dont want may name on that crap. What is one to do.? Especially with be able to BID the right/RESPECTFUL price. Thanks

[@abrahamlincoln6619]

35. I have arthritis in all my joints. It's not easy but I make it work.

[@scottanderson1791]

Your honesty is appreciated sir, I commend you. Fake social media world...love it!

[@masonshaw1221]

Building inspection is the way to go!

[@monteglover4133]

I’m a building equipment mechanic for the USPS and pull 70k+ w/very good benefits. The trades pay very well. If you have good mechanical skills the jobs are out there.

[@howtodoitdude1662]

Not taking the work home with you is definitely a benefit!

[@dougjones4987]

Thats something I'd be interested in, do they post those jobs?

[@MotoGiant]

Dude, you are The Best !!

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

Wow, thanks!

[@greatlakeslighthouses]

Been working remodeling since I got my builders license at 18. I’m now 47 and don’t do nearly the amount of grunt work that I used to. Remodeling taught me the plumbing and electrical trades so well, that that is about all I do anymore…and I’m not even licensed to do either. My work speaks for itself and people don’t even care about the license. They just want the job done right the first time. Believe it or not, I get called on a lot by other builders to come fix stuff the licensed plumbers and electricians mess up. Money is good….hourly rates vary from $80/hr to $150/hr. I’m in Northern Michigan and spend a lot of time replumbing and rewiring cottages that were built in the 40s. It has worked well for me, but you have to be excellent at what you do….and that takes years of experience

[@rrck6610]

I hear ya handyman, started painting at 21 and I will be 53 this year. Started a renovation company about 5 years ago and making decent money doing paint, drywall and trimwork, but the joints are really starting to ache the last 2 years

[@colbymackay]

Hey Handyman, How many cans of WD-40 do I need to lubricate my tree stand?

[@jmartin015]

I use “Invoice Simple” for my billing. Great program!

[@lockedin60]

Handyman I finally got you figured out. Somewhere along the line on your other channel you mentioned that doing Handyman stuff was not the core of your business but you did it for a reason. I now have figured out why you also took those jobs initially. A great marketing tool. You got it figured out. Your true angle is remodeling. I think the gist of what Mike Rowe talks about is true. Learning and marketing yourself as a tradesman is a ticket to be steadily employed. However it may require going the extra mile to really understand the business model of your skill sets. Those guys are the ones who make it a profitable business.

[@TerrellWillams]

I just subscribed! You are preaching the God honest truth! There’s levels and seasons to this!

[@blobcsgo7190]

Thanks for the knowledge!