We get calls every week from people in Ashburn and Leesburg who see our red handyman service truck either driving around or parked at a clients house.
What's really funny is that people usually say the same thing when they call " I saw your red truck at xx house in Ashburn, and I really need a good handyman to come and do some work done at my house". Then they go on to say something like "so I Googled you from my iphone and saw you have tons of 5 star reviews".
You can imagine how the rest of the conversation goes. :)
The reason I am writing this is just to share how effective I believe the process of offline combined with online marketing is. So if you have some sort of a business in Ashburn, Leesburg, or anywhere else in the USA for that matter - don't overlook the power of offline marketing tactics. It's definitely worth it. Just thought I's share.
Have a great day!
So, you've been dreaming of creating a spa-worthy master bathroom, or you want to give your kitchen a fresh update. These types of home improvements add both value and enjoyment to your home. But, I completely understand that everyone wants to stay within a budget these days. After all, home improvements are well worth the cost, but they certainly aren't free.
So, how can you set a realistic budget to make your home improvement dreams come true?
Here is a list of five easy steps to get you started with a budget you can use to enhance your home:
- Figure out why you want to make improvements to your home
Are you simply bored and want a change? Did a magazine photo or friend's home inspire you to make changes to your own living space? These reasons for making home improvements are based on wants. Or, do you plan to put your home on the market and need some updates? What about repairs that have been let go for too long? These reasons more closely represent needs. It's okay to have reasons that fall into either category, but knowing exactly why you want to make home improvements will inform your other decisions about budgeting.
- Decide how much you can afford to spend
Now it's time to figure out exactly how much you can spend on home improvements. First, check out how much money you have in short-term savings, such as money market accounts, savings accounts and CDs. However, if you know the project will exceed your savings, you may want to think about financing. Check out your personal or family budget to see how much is left over each month that you could apply to a loan.
- Research the materials and supplies your project will require
This is the fun part. Visit home improvement stores to find the types of materials and appliances you want. Be sure to check several stores so you can compare prices, writing down the best deals you find. This research will help you prepare your budget because you'll have exact figures, instead of guesstimates, when incorporating materials costs into the budget.
- Create a line item list of labor and materials costs
Now it's time to sit down and create a detailed budget. Use the information you've gathered to present as accurate a picture as possible. Categories you'll want to consider in your budget include:
Home improvements are a worthy investment, but it's always smart to know exactly what you can afford, and what your dream projects will cost, before beginning. I am always happy to help my clients decide which projects they want to take on, so please get in touch with your questions about making improvements to your home that fit within your budget.
- Hire a Professional, Experienced Handyman
General contractors can be pricey, often taking your project way beyond your original budget. Why not hire a professional, experienced Handyman to get your home improvement projects done without the excessive costs?
For example, a Handyman can turn your old, dated bathroom into a spa-worthy retreat at a fraction of the cost.
Here's a list of some of the updates Your Ultimate Handyman of Ashburn can help you with:
- Replace rotten subfloor
- Remove old flooring
- Repair drywall issues
- Paint
- Install tile floor and tile shower/bath surround
- Install vanity cabinet, sink, counter, sink fixture
- Install toilet
- Install light fixtures
- Replace switches
- Hang towel bars
I am always happy to help my clients decide which projects they want to take on, so please get in touch with your questions about making improvements to your home that fit within your budget.
Thanks!
Lance -
Your Ultimate Handyman of Ashburn
571-606-7651
I often get asked how I work, when it comes to projects that are more that just a list of items that take an hour or two. So I thought I would take a minute and share how I approach pricing for jobs.
I work on a time plus materials basis. I am happy to give
an estimation of the final price but it could be either lower or
higher depending.
I always tell clients that if a "big" contractor comes
in and gives you a price for a job, I guarantee that if it takes his
crew less time your bill will not be smaller, but if it takes them
longer, it will somehow work it's way into the final bill. That being said,
I am a one-man-band, you will have my full attention on your project. Therefore if I finish the work in less time, the I charge you less than the estimation. I think this is the only fair way to do things, I won't charge you for time that is not actually being spent.
I am not the guy that gives the estimate and the next time you see me is to
pick up the check. In addition, I am always happy to work with clients and teach what I know using the tools that I have. A lot of first-time
homeowners and people who have the interest but not the opportunity,
appreciate the that and I enjoy teaching. So, that said, I do not give
"discounts" but the bill will be smaller as you will be doing some of
my work for/with me and that means I will be there less time.
I hope this information is helpful. I have many satisfied customers, and definitely no one is balking at the final bills.
Thanks,
Lance
Your Ultimate Handyman
Sometimes its just simple things that we let go around the house when the holiday rush is upon us.
For my family it starts in October with Halloween, then we have 4 birthdays, an anniversary, Thanksgiving and Christmas all jam packed right through to the New Year. We tend to put off alot of things around the house when we realize we just have to let go of some things in order to maintain a balance with our work, social and family lives.
Well, its a new year and time to refocus and tackle that honey-do list.
Maybe its something as minor as that toilet that never stops running.....costing you hundreds more than you realize on your water bill.
Or perhaps that drywall repair so desperately needed after the roof leaked.
It could even be that bathroom remodel with new sink, toilet, counter and custom tile shower you have been dying to install.
Whatever the case - its a great time to tackle those indoor home improvement projects you have been putting off. Give us a call, no matter how small the job is, and well show up on time, and give you the care and quality workmanship that we give to all our other wonderful clients here in Loudoun County.
It's going to be a great year, and we look forward to helping you and your home get it started on the right foot!
Happy New Year -
Lance Demler
Your Ultimate Handyman
People have definitely caught the Christmas spirit, or so the lighting and decor indicate.
As you are getting your home ready for the holidays, take a look around and make some assessments of what needs a little sprucing up, then give me a call.
I will be happy to come over and provide a free estimate on any Handyman Services.
Happy holidays!
