How to Find the Best Handyman Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money
When the faucet is dripping, the fence is leaning, and the ceiling fan is wobbling like it’s auditioning for a dance competition, you know it’s time to consider hiring a handyman. But not just any handyman. You want the one who shows up on time, charges fairly, does quality work, and doesn’t leave your home looking like a tornado passed through. So how do you find that guy or gal? Let’s break it down in true Terri’s Little Haven fashion, with tips, questions, and a whole lot of common sense.
Start with Word of Mouth
Your neighbors, family, friends, and even that chatty lady in line at the grocery store probably have someone they swear by. Ask around. The best recommendations come from people who’ve actually used the handyman’s services and lived to brag about it. Bonus points if you can see the finished project with your own eyes.
Use Local Listings, but Proceed with Caution
Websites like Nextdoor, Angie’s List (now Angi), and local Facebook groups can be gold mines, but don’t take those five-star reviews at face value. Some reviews are real and honest. Others? Let’s just say they might’ve been written by the handyman’s aunt, dog, or childhood best friend.
Look for specific reviews. The kind that say, “He fixed my porch steps, cleaned up the mess, and even gave my dog a treat,” are much more reliable than “Great guy. Hire him.” Vague = red flag.
Ask These Must-Know Questions Before You Hire
Once you’ve got a few names on your list, it’s time to make some calls or send a few texts. Here are the questions that will help you separate the heroes from the heartbreakers:
- What kind of work do you specialize in?
Not every handyman does everything. Some are great with plumbing. Others are more carpentry-focused. Make sure your needs match their strengths. - Are you licensed and insured?
Even if your state doesn’t require it, this one’s important. If something goes wrong, you want to know you’re covered. - Can you provide references or photos of recent work?
A good handyman will be proud to show off past projects. If they dodge this question, consider it a flashing neon warning sign. - How do you charge? Hourly or by the job?
This one matters because it affects your bottom line. Hourly might be cheaper for small jobs. Flat rates are often better for bigger projects. Just be sure you both understand what’s included. - What is your estimated timeline?
You don’t want your “quick fix” turning into a six-week saga. Make sure their availability lines up with your schedule.
Compare Prices Without Losing Your Cool
It’s tempting to go with the cheapest quote, but be careful. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Gather at least three estimates and compare them not just by price, but by what’s included. Some handymen will quote a low price, then nickel-and-dime you later. Others may cost more but include cleanup, materials, or even a guarantee.
Write down what each person includes in their quote. If one handyman includes materials and disposal, and another doesn’t, that changes the value even if the price is the same. You want the best deal, not just the lowest number.
How to Spot Fake Reviews (Yes, It’s a Thing)
We’ve all seen it. A handyman with thirty-five glowing reviews, all written in the same tone, with the same five words repeated over and over. Hmm. Suspicious, right?
Here’s how to tell if reviews are the real deal:
- Check the reviewer’s history. Do they review other places or just one?
- Look at review dates. If all 20 reviews popped up in one week, that’s fishy.
- Watch for overly generic language. Real people describe specific experiences.
Bonus tip: Use a mix of review platforms. Google, Yelp, and even the Better Business Bureau can give you a more balanced view.
Give a Small Test Run First
Still unsure? Hire your top pick for a small job first. Something simple like fixing a leaky faucet or hanging a door. This lets you test their communication, timeliness, work quality, and whether or not they leave sawdust in your sink.
If the small job goes well, you can confidently move on to bigger projects.
Final Thought from Terri’s Little Haven
Finding the best handyman doesn’t have to feel like a treasure hunt without a map. Ask the right questions, double-check those reviews, and trust your instincts. You deserve someone who treats your home with care, charges fairly, and fixes things right the first time. With a little prep and the tips above, you’ll find the perfect helping hand in no time.
And when your friends come over and compliment your beautifully repaired fence or freshly hung chandelier, you can smile, sip your tea, and say, “Oh that? Just my amazing handyman.”
