Marketing Plan

Create door knockers, postcards and flyers that will state clearly what services you provide. Put an ad in the local “rag sheets,” such as Penny Savers or the Classified Flea Market.   Identify new track home developments. Typically once you do one deck, your satisfied clients will promote you to their neighbors.

Look for homes that have been recently listed for sale. The owner will want to make the house look it’s best in order to sell it more rapidly. You can help them increase the value of their home.

Most grocery stores have bulletin boards where you can post your services. If you belong to a church, look to see if they have a bulletin board for members to post their services.

Power Partners

Your Power Partners will consist of Realtors, Landscapers, Gardeners, Painters, Fencers, Blacktop Pavers, Brick Layers, Tile Setters, Patio Designers, Roofers and Window Replacement specialists.

The conversations with these Power Partners should indicate your willingness to provide them with referrals, as you become aware of clients who need their services. It is important you meet with these Power Partners in person the first time, and then keep in touch with them weekly by email or by phone conversations.

Requirements

If you haven’t had experience with deck refinishing offer to work for a company at below average wages in order to gain some experience. You should try to locate a company far enough away from where you will operate your business, so that they won’t feel threatened by your becoming their competitor. You will need to have a contractor’s license, sanders, saws and a variety of other tools. You will also need to have reliable transportation.

Personality Type: Expressive, Amiable

Certification: Although this is not a legal certification, the liability for mishaps is extensive. It is suggested that you get trained by the experts, as well as carrying a large liability policy.

Total Start Up Costs: Less than $1500(includes business cards, tools, phone and advertising)

Construction

Here is a list of construction ideas, which you can begin from home, along with the guideline for the anticipated income potential. Most construction jobs require specialty tools that can be expensive. However, you can start out with smaller jobs and then work your way to larger jobs, then buy the tools as you need them.

Income $50,000- $60,000

The range of income for the first year will depend on how much you market your services and when you begin your business. Typically you can charge between $1,000 and $5,000 for refinishing decks, depending on how large the deck is and how much work will need to be done.

If you’re not comfortable bidding on the jobs in the beginning, call a competitor and get several estimates over the phone. That will give you a base with which to start.

Description

Most homes have decks. Most homeowners don’t have the knowledge or the time to do the work themselves. You’ll also be able to pick up accessory work from the same potential clients. Take a Take a look at their fencing, siding, gutters, painting and do some hauling jobs.

Clients

Your clients will be located in upscale neighborhoods. Look for areas where gardeners have been hired to take care of the landscaping. This is a good indication that the residents are less likely to be do-it-yourselfers.