Managing business profit advice?

[mhoward92]

Just wondering, How did you all start your business? and what steps did you take to manage your money for new equiptment? share your stories please

[Steve]

Lawn care business tips

and what steps did you take to manage your money for new equiptment? Are you meaning how did you save money in order to prepare for future equipment purchases? And stuff like that?

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[mhoward92]

yes, how you saved to prepare and to buy future work equiptment.

[Steve]

I think some of the traits of successful entrepreneurs is that they are big savers. They can make do with things others wouldn't consider. Sam Walton is my favorite when it comes to this philosophy.

What kind of equipment is on your wish list?

[mhoward92]

new everything. besides a trailor. I have everything but its old and i want it to look professional.

[Steve]

new everything. besides a trailer. I have everything but its old and i want it to look professional.

Well from your point of view, what about older equipment is unprofessional? Does your equipment work? Is it making you money? Have your customers ever complained to you that your equipment looks old?

[mhoward92]

No, its just the fact that I'm trying to be as professional as possible. Many people don't think I'm serious since I'm only 17. But I am so I'm trying to show it more. But one thing I DO NEED is a blower. Mine is shot now. I was thinking about a backpack blower not sure what kind though really. I'm looking for a price range between 200-300. any reccomendations?

[StartALawnCareBusiness]

I agree that professional equipment lends to your getting more respect and garnering a higher price especially from your business clients.

This is not only for its looks but more so for your equipment's functionality. If your equipment is dependable and well maintained it will give better service and you customers won't ever have to worry if you've had an equipment breakdown.

Grow into your equipment slowly though. There's no need going into debt during your early days just so you can look bigger than you are. This is the time of year to seek out great prices on last year's models or used equipment right before winter.

Talking about professional equipment and blowers. I have a Homelite backpack blower I bought in 1995 or 1996. The thing is a pain in the a$$ to start but it still runs great once I get it going. Mainly, it needs a new primer bulb and a carb adjustment. The thing is; it is no where near commercial quality but it did commercial work (initially only bought it as a backup) for about 5 years before I retired it to residential use. Just because something is cheap doesn't mean it won't give good service.

My favorite blower though is my RedMax EBZ8001. Check it out:

[Steve]

No, its just the fact that I'm trying to be as professional as possible. Many people don't think I'm serious since I'm only 17.

I think you are serious!

What do you wear for a uniform?

Do you have any signs for your business on your truck?

[mhoward92]

It is all in the making right not. I designed all of it up and am now just waiting for the product to come in. I will wear a business logo work t-shirt. and both my truck and trailer will have decals on them. Even the billing and contracts I personally made myself to make even the paperwork look professional.