Just starting out

[Al Kessinger]

Hello I am just starting out and though i have been mowing foreclosed properties for a couple years now I have recently decided to have a go at full time. My question is this I currently use a 36-38 inch riding mower, and don't have the capital to purchase a ztr mower. Is it possible to be takin seriously when all you have is a rider, push mower and a couple weed whackers.

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[JLM]

Lawn care business tips

I think you will do fine for a few reasons, first off sell your service not as a lawn care service but a grounds keeping service I did this from 98-01 and did quite well. Advertise the use of a belly mower most upscale customers will prefer a slower cut with a keen atention to detail. You must capitilize on the customers you gain! Become a one call company thus Grounds keeper. Charge by the hour for your services no matter what the task. Come out of pocket for nothing the customers would pay for thier own matierals and I would charge 50.00 per hour for labor.. this saves the customer some cash as thier is no mark up on matierals mulch,plants,parts etc. Its all how you pitch your services Bud. I took care of 17 homes and made as much money as my friend and he had 35 acounts or so. Good luck Hope I was able to help.

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If you can't be good..Be good at it!

[Steve]

I'd say work with what you got and make it better as you can

What about getting a company shirt and hat? Would that help you presentation to your customers?

[Al Kessinger]

Originally Posted by Steve

What about getting a company shirt and HAT? Would that help you presentation to your customers?

Lord knows I love My Hats

[uncwman33]

hello. i trying to figure out how to post new threads? i have questions. im just starting out and got an ideal of how much to charge for mowing, trimming, and edging, but im unsure as to what to charge for trimming bushes, hedging, and small tree removal, and also what to do with the clippings? where to dispose of the stuff?? you got me really excited about starting my own lawncare business. im getting all my ducks in a row before i got out there and make money. i want to not go out there and be dumb founded and get overwelmed with stuff like this. thanks,

David

[SECTLANDSCAPING]

I wouldnt worry about the mower yet but the uhaul has to go. The mower is required for commercial work though. You cant show up to a shopping center with a riding mower.

If you can put up with all the foreclosure picture crap, im sure you wont have a problem with someone ragging on your mower. Even if the homeowner jokes with you, if you do a good job it will be forgiving.

I would shop around and sell your mower when you can. I bought my first commercial mower, toro 44" walkbehind for $300. I still have it almost 4 years later with no repairs. A commercial walkbehind will cut quicker and better then a rider. I was just at a auction and a 3 wheeled scag ztr with high hours went for $400. I was thinking of buying it, even though I didnt need it but the thing was like 7 ft long.

[Al Kessinger]

Originally Posted by SECTLANDSCAPING

I wouldnt worry about the mower yet but the uhaul has to go. .

What if I change my name to UHAUL Lawn Care Lol.

No but seriously ive been lookin for a trailer just cant find one in my price range when Im looking, When I wasnt needing one I could find what I needed all day long on CL and in the newspaper.

[SECTLANDSCAPING]

Originally Posted by Al Kessinger

What if I change my name to UHAUL Lawn Care Lol.

No but seriously ive been lookin for a trailer just cant find one in my price range when Im looking, When I wasnt needing one I could find what I needed all day long on CL and in the newspaper.

Thats actually how life is. You have to use the jedi mind trick. I dont need a trailer Ill do fine without, then look

[kdexpd]

Originally Posted by uncwman33

hello. i trying to figure out how to post new threads? i have questions. im just starting out and got an ideal of how much to charge for mowing, trimming, and edging, but im unsure as to what to charge for trimming bushes, hedging, and small tree removal, and also what to do with the clippings? where to dispose of the stuff?? you got me really excited about starting my own lawncare business. im getting all my ducks in a row before i got out there and make money. i want to not go out there and be dumb founded and get overwelmed with stuff like this. thanks,

David

Hi David

First you need to select "Forum" at the top of the main page. Then select a topic in which to post your question in. Once you have chosen the one that best addresses your topic, click on the "Post New Thread" button at the top of the posts on the left side and begin.