DIY skills are essential because they help you save money and be self-reliant. According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders, homeowners who do some or all of the work on their homes save an average of $5,000 compared to those who hire a professional. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Labor reports that the median wage for construction and extraction workers is $26.53 per hour, while the median salary for production occupations is $20.53 per hour. This means that people with DIY skills can make more money by doing projects themselves than by working for someone else.
If you have DIY skills, you can even make money out of it. Many DIY homeowners can make enough money to cover the cost of their home improvement projects by renting out tools or taking on small jobs for friends and neighbors. If you want to take your DIY skills to the next level and make them into a business, here are a few tips.
Get Certifications
One of the most important things you can do when starting a DIY services business is to get certified. This means you have the knowledge and skills to do the work safely and correctly. Certification also helps to show your clients that you are a professional and that they can trust you to do a good job.
There are many certification programs, so find one that is right for you and your business. The National Association of Home Builders offers a certification program for home improvement professionals, while the American Welding Society provides certification in welding. Many programs are also available for contractors, electricians, and other tradespeople.
There will be a fee to get certified, but it is worth it to invest in your business. Certification will give you the credibility you need to succeed. Without it, potential clients may not take you seriously or be unwilling to pay you what you are worth.
Get Insured
Another critical step in starting a DIY business is to get insured. This protects you and your clients if something goes wrong while working on a project. It is vital to have both liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
A study by the National Association of Home Builders found that 65% of homeowners are unwilling to hire a contractor who is not insured. This means that not being certified could cost you a lot of business.
Liability insurance will protect you if someone is injured while you are working on their home. It will also cover any damage you may accidentally cause to their property. Workers’ compensation insurance protects you if you are injured while working.
You can get both types of insurance through the National Association of Home Builders or other organizations that offer coverage for contractors and tradespeople. The insurance cost will vary depending on your work and the size of your business, but it is a significant investment.
Make Noise Online
In today’s world, it is essential to have an online presence. This means having a website and being active on social media. Your website does not have to be elaborate but should list your services and contact information.
Social media is a great way to connect with potential clients and promote your business. Create accounts on major platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Then, start posting pictures and updates about your business. Make sure to use hashtags so that people can find you when they are searching for DIY services online.
You can also use social media to run ads targeting people in your area who might need your services. This is a great way to reach new clients and grow your business.
Another underrated tactic for online visibility is Search Engine Optimization (SEO). This optimizes your website and content to appear higher in search engine results. When people search for DIY services in your area, you want your business to be one of the first they see. However, you might not know what SEO is or how to do it. Luckily, many specialized SEO consultants can help you out.
Utilize Referrals Well
Often, referrals are the best way to get new clients. This is when someone who has used your services recommends you to their friends or family.
The best way to get referrals is to provide excellent service and exceed your client’s expectations. If they are happy with your work, they will be more likely to refer you to others.
You can also offer referral discounts to encourage people to give you the names of potential clients. For example, you could offer a 10% discount on their next project for every referral they give you that leads to a new client.
Final Thoughts
Starting a DIY business can be a great way to make money doing something you love. However, there are a few things you need to do to set yourself up for success. By following these tips, you can start your own DIY business and be on your way to success!