I'm currently self-employed and considering starting another business to boost my income. My state's regulations (Illinois) require a license to operate as a home inspector, while no license is needed for a handyman. I'm quite handy and have helped friends with various tasks around the house.
From my experience as a homeowner, it's challenging to find a handyman who's available to tackle smaller jobs; most contractors seem to focus on larger projects and often turn down smaller requests. I've had some shocking quotes in the past for simple tasks, which pushed me to learn how to do many things on my own.
Given the current economic climate, I worry that the home inspection business could slow down if the housing market dips. However, it seems like there might be a consistent demand for handymen who can handle little repairs at reasonable prices. I'd love to hear thoughts on whether I should pursue home inspecting or focus on handyman services instead!
5 Answers
Don't overlook the importance of insurance and permits! Whether you choose handyman or home inspection, being covered legally is essential. Running a legit handyman service will require some basic insurance to safeguard your work and tools.
Honestly, I’d lean towards being a handyman. Home inspection depends heavily on the real estate market, which can be unpredictable. As a handyman, you can cater to a broader range of jobs. Just keep in mind that scaling a handyman service can be tricky since you’ll often find yourself putting in the hours and managing all aspects yourself.
Exactly! I was a handyman for years and there’s always a demand as long as you build a good reputation.
You should definitely check with the local contractors licensing board since requirements vary by state. Some places don't require a license for general handyman work unless the project exceeds a certain cost, like $500. It's crucial to understand the regulations in your area before starting.
In Illinois, there's no state-level license needed for general contractors, which is something to keep in mind!
In my city, it’s only $50, but the rules haven’t updated in ages!
From a financial standpoint, home inspectors can make a decent living, especially if they network with realtors. However, inspections can be incredibly dependent on market trends. If you're not comfortable with the pressure of relying on house sales, maybe the handyman route is better for your peace of mind.
I've had a bad experience with inspectors; sometimes it feels like they're just checking boxes rather than doing a thorough job. A good handyman can provide real solutions rather than just spotting problems. Think about what fits your skills and personal goals better!
For sure! Trust me, a handyman can often provide more hands-on service which clients appreciate more.
That’s spot on! Inspectors sometimes miss crucial details that a handyman could catch.
True! Plus, most people need those small fixes done, and they often can't find anyone to handle them.