r/sweatystartup

Real-world service and trade businesses: lawn care, cleaning, HVAC, plumbing, and more.

• Posted by u/future_mower

  Starting lawn care next spring. What should I know?

  Have a truck, saving for a mower and trailer. Full time job now. Goal is to replace $60k salary in 3 years.

• Posted by u/new_powerwasher

  How do I price pressure washing?

  Started last month. Been guessing at prices. Losing money on some jobs.

• Posted by u/solo_cleaner_2yr

  Cleaning business, when should I hire my first cleaner?

  I clean 4 houses a day, 5 days a week, booked out. Body is starting to hurt. Nervous about hiring.

• Posted by u/truck_debate

  Buy or lease a work truck for a service business?

  Starting HVAC service company. Need a van. Everyone has an opinion.

• Posted by u/jack_of_all_trades

  Should I stay a handyman or specialize?

  I do a bit of everything, drywall, tile, fixtures, small remodels. Making $80k. Wondering if I should pick a lane.

• Posted by u/one_truck_ceiling

  When do I add a second truck to my service business?

  Booked solid. Turning down work. Nervous to add a truck and second guy.

• Posted by u/new_mower_dad

  Starting lawn care next spring, how do I get the first 20 customers?

  Truck, trailer, two mowers ready. Zero customers. Not sure where to start.

• Posted by u/wiping_it_all_down

  Residential or commercial cleaning, which is a better business?

  Starting a cleaning company. Which direction has better long-term economics?

• Posted by u/weekend_washer

  Pressure washing side hustle, when does it become full-time?

  Doing $3k/mo weekends. Want to go full-time but scared to lose the W-2.

• Posted by u/junk_removal_ohio

  How many trucks before the owner stops running a route?

  3 trucks. I still run one 4 days a week. When do I get out of the field?

• Posted by u/career_switcher_38

  Buy a service business or start one from scratch?

  $150k saved, want to own a service business. Buy an existing one or start fresh?