Repair and Improve Your Home for Higher Price

Handymen: Low-cost approach to improving your foreclosure property

How to work with handymen in California?

In general, handyman costs less than a contractor. They are one-man operation with low overhead.

You become a kind of general contractor when you orchestrate several handymen for different jobs such a kitchen remodeling, carpeting, masonry works, roofing, etc. Get advice from each before you start such a collaborative work to time different jobs and establish your priorities.

Ask for references and their insurance coverage, if there is any. Don't get surprised if you find out that many do not have an insurance, license or bond. That's how they can offer low rates.

How to find a qualified handyman?

You may also find handymen at the bulletin boards of home maintenance and repair stores such as Home Depot and Lowe's. For interior and exterior painting jobs, check the bulletin boards of major paint stores such as DuPont, Sherwin Williams, and others to find their business cards, or information on index cards.

You can save money by buying directly from the specialized suppliers that they know. Keep in mind that those who advertise their businesses with large ads in Yellow Pages may charge more than those who can only afford to advertise in few lines.

Timing your payments to handyman

Payments based on hourly labor may not work for you as it is open-ended. Payment upon completion of a certain job is better. You may need to make some advance payment for large works and purchase of some expensive material. Retaining a certain percentage of payment is always a good idea to make sure that the job is completed to your satisfaction and at a quality that you both agreed.

When not to hire handyman?

Don't hire a handyman for important jobs such as roofing, siding, major electrical and plumbing works. For such major and structural works, look for professionals who are licensed, insured, and bonded. Ask them to get the permits required by the local agencies.

Need specialized work at your property?

Talk to workers at a construction site doing the specialized work that you want to have it done at your property. You may find some at nearby fast-food restaurants around lunch time break or around the construction site having their own lunch. Ask them if they are available on weekends or after daily work.