Vets Starting a Handyman Business

By: Joseph Molina National Veterans Chamber of Commerce

veteransccsd@gmail.com

As a veteran thinking about starting your own business, it’s likely that you’ve given some thought to how to obtain the American dream. While starting a new business can be both exciting and overwhelming, your military background will put you in a great position to succeed. From following local and federal requirements and regulations to getting the word out about your services to potential customers, you’ll be on your way to building a business you’re proud of if you follow these tips.

Starting a Handyman Business

Getting Started

Getting your handyman service up and running will go smoothly if you take it one step at a time. Start by contacting your state’s small business agency to find out what you’ll need to do in regard to forming an LLC. You’ll also want to know about permitting and licensing rules in your county and state. Paying attention to these legal steps in the beginning, like getting liability insurance, proper vehicle, and tool coverage, will help you succeed long term.

As you begin to formulate your business plan with this information, consider how you’ll brand yourself. Pick your specialty areas and search for an online logo maker service to design an appealing logo that will identify your new business to customers. You’ll have many fonts and color options when it comes to creating your logo which will be displayed on your website, vehicles, and communications with customers.

Hammering out the Details

As you work to nail down details of your business plan and ways to market yourself, you’ll want to consider investing in cost estimating software that can help you to make bids quickly, so you’ll stand out against the competition. By using a service, the software can help you to send estimates directly from the job site, send out automated email reminders for bid approvals, estimate labor expenses and material costs, and include a payment schedule for customers. They’ll not only save you time but also help you to stay organized.

Adding Benefits and Support

As a veteran, you’ll want to use resources out there specific to you. As a thank you for your service, you’ll find discounts at local and chain hardware stores. In addition to applying for accounts at the contractor’s rate, be sure to ask about veteran benefits that will help you keep costs down; this is something you can pass on to your customers that they’ll appreciate. Also, consider looking into grants specific to veterans through your state. You might be surprised what kind of start-up funding you can get for new tools or vehicles to help you succeed.

Living the Dream

Whether you plan to open your business in Los Angeles or somewhere else in the United States, taking advantage of the software, social media platforms, listing services, and current real estate market will help make your plan work as you build your handyman business.

Still not sure where to start or how to find the right plan? Check out the National Veterans Chamber for ways they can help make your dreams come true.

The National Veterans Chamber brings together Individuals and Organizations to collaborate and develop programs & projects that will result in a Positive impact in our Veteran/Military community.

If you have any questions, please email veteransccsd@gmail.com.