How to Navigate Handyman Costs When Selling Your Home
Preparing your home for sale often involves sprucing up with minor touch-ups and necessary repairs. While some tasks can be DIY projects, others require the skilled hand of a handyman. Understanding how a handyman charges can be immensely helpful for budgeting your home-selling expenses efficiently.
How Do Handymen Charge?
Handymen generally charge for their work in one of two ways: by the hour or by the job. According to the Angi Pricing Guide, you can expect to pay around $77 per hour for a handyman's services. For typical visits that could cover multiple small tasks, costs might range from $178 to $648.
Smaller and variable repair jobs are often billed hourly due to the unpredictability of certain factors. However, for more straightforward tasks like installing a sink or hanging a light fixture, a handyman might offer a flat-rate price.
Typical Handyman Services and Costs
Here’s a breakdown of common handyman tasks and what you might anticipate spending:
Hourly Jobs:
- 1-2 hours: Tasks such as replacing small electrical components or fixing leaks.
- 2-3 hours: Activities like hanging shelving or repairing drywall.
- 2-4 hours: Jobs like hanging doors, repairing woodwork, or replacing window glass.
- 4 hours or more: Larger projects, such as extensive repairs or wiring home theatre components.
Flat-Rate Jobs:
- $100 to $200: Installation of ceiling fans, standard lighting fixtures, garbage disposals, faucets, or toilets.
- $200 to $300: Mounting a TV, installing a sink, or hanging high light fixtures.
Tips for Saving Money
Maximize your savings with the following strategies:
Prepare the Workspace: Ensure the work area is clean and accessible. Performing tasks such as moving furniture and sweeping beforehand can save you from paying the handyman for time spent tidying up.
Bundle Small Jobs: If hiring by the hour, try to compile several small tasks into one visit. Moving seamlessly from one job to another makes the best use of the handyman’s time and your money.
Supply Your Own Materials: Consider purchasing necessary materials yourself, particularly for tasks like painting and hardware replacement. While some projects may require specific purchases by the handyman, providing materials yourself cuts down on markup costs.
Pro Tip: Always get the rates, terms, and guarantees in writing, irrespective of the job size. This ensures there are no surprises and helps manage expectations effectively.
By understanding how to manage handyman services efficiently, you can prepare your home for sale with less hassle and more confidence.
