A Handyman for That Honey-Do List

Tired of waiting for that honey-do list to get done? Consider hiring a handyman instead to tie up all those loose ends around your house. Just make sure to follow these five tips:

Understand pricing. Many handyman services, but not all, charge an hourly rate and a fee for travel.

Yvonne Costin, owner of Grandmas Handyman Service in Aurora, Colo., charges $75 for the first hour and $60 for each additional hour, plus a $20 travel fee, for the employees she sends to peoples homes. Were basically a time, prep, material company, she says. When people have a honey-do list, we cant give them an estimate for that.

James Payne, owner of One Handyman and a Van in Mason, Ohio, says he doesnt offer a set rate, but determines how much to charge based on the length and difficulty of the job.

Tasks like changing out a garbage disposal could cost about $100 if everything goes perfectly, he says, but unforeseen issues, especially in older homes, can result in a higher cost. I prefer, before I start giving quotes to people, to look at it, he says.

Explain your problem in detail.

Handymen like to know what theyre up against, so be prepared to tell them in as much detail as possible.

Payne says it helps him determine whether he wants to do the job and what materials he might need. I try to pick their brain before I drive 100 miles for 50 bucks, he says.

Costin says that sometimes when people explain their issues, she can help them solve them over the phone. I love giving advice, she says. Thats what grandmas do.

Know the scope. Handyman services stick to smaller jobs. They wont rewire or replumb your house.

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A Handyman for That Honey-Do List