Tips for Starting a Home Services Business in Corning

Are you thinking of starting a home services business? The home services industry is booming, and there are plenty of opportunities to start a successful business. Whether you’re just beginning or have been in the industry for years, it’s important to know all the elements that come with running a home services business. Here are some tips from the Corning Chamber of Commerce to get you started.

What's Your Big Idea?

Before you can even begin to think about creating your business plan, you need to decide what kind of home services your business will provide. There are plenty of options out there, from plumbing and electrical work to landscaping and handyman services. When choosing an idea for your business, make sure it’s something that will be profitable in your local area. Research the competition in the area, and make sure that your idea is something that people are looking for and willing to pay for. 

Designate as an LLC

One of the most important decisions you'll make when starting a home services business is what type of business designation to choose. There are a few different options, but one of the most popular is an LLC, or limited liability company. An LLC in California offers several benefits, including tax savings and limited liability. This means that if your company faces financial or legal obstacles at any point, your most valuable personal possessions will be protected from litigation. Consider working with a formation service so you can be sure you fulfill all your state's requirements for this designation.

Marketing Your Business

Once you determine the type of home services your business will offer, it’s time to start marketing yourself. The best way to do this is by creating an online presence and utilizing social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. This allows potential customers to find out more about your company and gives them access to reviews from previous customers. You should also consider using Google Adwords or other online advertising tools so that potential customers can find you easily when they search online.

Helpful Technology and Software

Technology plays an important role in the success of any modern business, especially one in the home services industry. Investing in the right software or tools can help streamline processes such as invoicing, scheduling appointments, and tracking projects, so make sure you research what’s available before making any decisions on which technology/software is best suited for your needs. Additionally, if you’re working with multiple employees or contractors at once, cloud-based project management systems can be extremely helpful in keeping everyone organized and on track with their tasks.

Creating a Resume

A resume is an important document to have for any business, and it's especially important for businesses in the home services industry. A resume can help you attract new customers by showcasing your skills and experience in a clear and concise way. Using a resume template can help you format your resume in a way that makes it easy to read and understand. This can be especially helpful when you're bidding on jobs or trying to attract new clients. 

Managing Projects and Finding Customers

When it comes to managing projects, communication is key. Make sure that everyone involved is kept up to date on progress throughout each project so there are no surprises down the line. Additionally, once a project has been completed successfully (on time and within budget), don’t forget to ask those clients if they know anyone else who might need similar services. Word-of-mouth referrals can be incredibly helpful when trying to find new customers.                                                        

Hiring Employees and Opening a Storefront  

Another important factor when starting a home services business is whether you will hire employees or contractors (or both). If you decide against hiring full-time employees, consider working with independent contractors who specialize in certain areas instead. This way, you won’t be responsible for providing them with benefits, but you’ll still have access to experienced professionals when needed. Additionally, if you decide not to operate solely from your own home but instead open up an actual brick-and-mortar location, then researching applicable permits and licenses required by local authorities is essential before opening up shop.                            

Starting a successful home services business requires careful planning and execution. You need to choose the right service offering based on market demand, create an effective marketing strategy, apply for necessary permits/licenses, and form your LLC or other legal entity before taking on any clients or signing any contracts. With the above tips in mind, running a successful home services company will be on the horizon.

The Corning Chamber of Commerce is committed to helping local entrepreneurs find success in our community. Join us today to access our great resources and advocates!