Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2015
SELLERS ADVICE: HIRING A HANDYMAN
As you get ready to sell your home, you
may discover the need to make numerous
repairs and updates. But when do you
have the time? Most jobs you can do
yourself, but others require a little more
skill. Maybe it’s time to consider hiring a
handyman.
According to Angie’s List, hiring a
handyman can prevent waste and
overcharging, as the handyman will only
charge you for hours worked. Plus they
keep their rates low with low overhead
and by not having to pay other workers.
A handyman is someone who can handle
small painting and carpentry jobs that
can be completed quickly. He typically
work s alone, charges by the hour plus
materials, and in some states is required
to be licensed and carry insurance.
If you think you’re going to more
extensive work, you should consider a
contractor. A contractor differs from
a handyman by taking larger jobs that
require going behind walls, or tearing
out and rebuilding areas. Contractors
supervise specialized tradespeople such
as plumbers, electricians, and craftsmen.
Before you hire a handyman or a
contractor, make a list of the jobs you
need done. If your list is composed
mostly of repairs and some updating like
painting, a handyman should suit your
needs.
To hire the right person for the job, do
the following:
1. Get recommendations from family,
friends, or your real estate professional.
She may know an individual or company
that specializes in “make-ready,” a
room-by-room clean-up, touch-up and
fix-up. You can also contact sites such
as HomeAdvisor or Angie’s List, to hire
workmen.
2. Interview several handymen before
making your decision. Make sure the
handyman you hire has the experience
and equipment to do the jobs you need
and is willing to guarantee the work.
3. You want someone you’ll feel
comfortable having around your family
and in your home. Hire only personnel
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who are bonded and insured.
4. Inspect the work while it’s in progress
and when it’s finished. Most professionals
want to do a good job out of pride of
workmanship. Handymen also rely
heavily on referrals, so if you’re pleased,
you’ll recommend the handyman to your
family and friends.
What you don’t want to do is leave small
repairs undone. Home buyers notice if
maintenance has been ignored, and may
conclude the home is in need of greater
repair than it actually does.