How big to go

[mxkx48]

Hi all. this is my first post to lawnsite. I have been reading for a few months now and have a good idea of where to start. I have been doing this for two years with a guy who does it part time and have learned quite a bit. I live on 15 acres with my parents so I know what its like to cut some grass. That being said, i am not the typical low ball type guy or someone that does shabby work. We cut houses for the banks and in my opinion do too good of a job for the money we are making. I want to venture out on my own when I am not helping him and try to make some more money. I have a 60in lazer z that I just bought for 2500. I bought a new husqvarna 326ls a few months ago. Got a good deal at $65 for a redmax eb7100 blower. So i have good reliable equipment, a truck, and a choice of two trailers one is a 5x7 open and a 7x16 enclosed. The truck and trailers are my dads. My question is,
1.What is the startup costs of getting fully liscensed and insured to cover my arse?
2.Should I only go for people who want a full year service or any jobs I can get right now?
3.If i do find people that want a full year, do I type up my own service agreements or do you all get those from the internet?
4. Should I load everything up on the trailer, put a sign on it, and go around knocking on doors or post an ad in the paper or what?
I can not think of any more qeustions at the time I am sure i will have more so any input advice suggestions comments is appreciated. I am south of atlanta and we have alot of people trying to do this but how can I set myself apart and not end up tanking or deciding another route in life?

[joshman108]

1. For missouri there is no liscense needed. Half million insurance from amfam was something like 300 a year. crazy cheap imo.
2. Whatever you can get that keeps you busy. I do both, because one time jobs are often recurring if they like you.
3. I found a sample online and edited it to fit my needs. I would recommend that.
4. Knocking on doors never worked for me. Craigslist is where I get almost all my clients. Alot of peopledont like cl but if you are comfortable with it it can work out well. Put a nice picture of yourself....unless you look like shrek....and just tell your story and people will eat it up. PM if you need help posting a picture or ad.

As far as setting yourself apart.... what I did was decide to stand for more than just lawn care. I decided to stand for seriously quality customer service. There is alot of crappy workmanship and customer service where i am, and I stand out in that regard. Never cheat a customer...smile.. be friendly... help them understand when there is a problem... make it enjoyable for them...go above and beyond.


As far as tanking goes... if its meant to be it will last. If you like it and give it your all you will succeed.
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[Lawnut101]

Its tough man! I'm 22, and this is my 5th summer. Finally starting to see positive cash flow. Lots of times I wanted to quit. Work your butt off while all your friends are playing and you'll be successful. Learn real fast from mistakes, track all your jobs, learn how to bid by knowing costs, and sell yourself as a QUALITY service! Not necessarily a "competitive" one. I bid on lots of jobs, but only get about 20-30% of them. That's how tight it is right now. These are my secrets. Good luck. Oh, and use nice equipment you can afford. Look around for deals, they are out there. I've payed less than bluebook for all my used equipment!