10 Mistakes to Avoid as a New Home Service Business

Starting a home service business — whether it’s landscaping, junk removal, house cleaning, or handyman work — is exciting. You’re finally your own boss, setting your own schedule, and building something real. But let’s be honest: it’s easy to make a few wrong turns early on that can slow you down or cost you money.

Let’s break down 10 of the most common mistakes new service pros make — and what to do instead so you can grow faster and avoid unnecessary stress.

1. Not Charging Enough

Many new business owners worry about scaring away customers with their prices — so they go low. But charging too little makes it hard to cover your time, fuel, supplies, equipment maintenance, and taxes.

Instead:Research your competition, calculate your actual costs, and build in a profit margin. Start by figuring out your hourly rate — then work backwards. If you're charging $80 for a job that takes 3 hours and $10 in materials, you're only making $23/hour (before expenses).

Tip: Customers are willing to pay more for reliable, professional service. Don't undervalue yourself just to get the job.

2. Skipping Written Estimates

It might feel quicker to give a quote over the phone or in person, but without a written estimate, there's room for miscommunication or disputes later.

Instead:Send a quick estimate via text or email every time. Include the scope of work, cost, and any special notes. It protects both you and the customer.

Example:"Hi Rachel! Thanks for reaching out. Here’s the quote for your gutter cleaning: $150 flat rate for 2-story home, includes full cleanout and disposal of debris. Let me know if you’d like to schedule!"

3. Not Marketing Consistently

Posting once on Facebook or handing out a few business cards won’t cut it. If you're not consistently showing up where customers are looking, they’ll hire someone else.

Instead:Create a simple routine — one or two posts a week on social media, comment in local Facebook groups, and keep your Google Business Profile updated with recent photos and reviews.

Tip: Before-and-after photos and quick videos of your work go a long way toward building trust.

4. Forgetting to Follow Up

Just because someone didn’t book right away doesn’t mean they’re not interested. People get distracted. If you don’t follow up, you might miss out on easy business.

Instead:Set reminders to check back in a few days later. A friendly follow-up shows you care and keeps you top of mind.

Example:"Hi again! Just checking in to see if you’re still looking for help with your spring cleanup. Let me know if I can answer any questions or get you on the schedule!"

5. Doing Everything Alone

When you're just starting out, you may feel like you have to wear all the hats: scheduling, marketing, bookkeeping, answering calls, and doing the actual work. But burnout comes fast that way.

Instead:Use simple tools to lighten the load. Google Calendar, Square Appointments, or Jobber can handle scheduling. Canva can help with social media posts. Even a shared spreadsheet can help you track jobs and income.

Bonus:Don’t be afraid to delegate or trade services. Know someone good at social media? Offer a lawn care swap in exchange for post help.

6. Not Asking for Reviews

Happy customers often stay quiet — unless you give them a little nudge.

Instead:After a successful job, send a short message asking for a review and include the direct link. Make it easy!

Example:"Thanks so much for choosing us! If you have a minute, we’d really appreciate a quick Google review — it helps our small business grow. Here’s the link: [Insert link here]"

7. Not Setting Boundaries

It’s tempting to answer messages at all hours or say yes to every last-minute request, but without boundaries, your work life can take over.

Instead:Set clear business hours, use auto-replies outside those hours, and block off personal time just like you would a job.

Example:Your voicemail or DM response can say: “Thanks for reaching out! We’re currently closed, but we’ll get back to you during business hours (Mon–Fri, 8AM–6PM).”

8. Skipping Licenses or Insurance

Some business owners skip the paperwork to save money at first — but one accident or complaint can cost you way more in the long run.

Instead:Check local regulations and register your business properly. Make sure you're carrying liability insurance and any licensing your trade requires. It also builds trust with customers when they know you're legit.

Tip: Add “licensed & insured” to your marketing materials if it applies — customers look for it.

9. Not Tracking Your Income and Expenses

Without a system, it’s easy to forget a cash job here or lose track of tool purchases there. That makes tax time painful — and it’s hard to know how your business is actually doing.

Instead:Start a basic system now. Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or app like Wave, QuickBooks, or Notion. Track every payment, invoice, and receipt — even the little stuff like gas or trash bags.

Bonus: You’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to apply for loans or prove your income.

10. Forgetting About Customer Experience

Even if your work is top-notch, things like not returning messages, showing up late, or leaving behind messes can leave a bad impression.

Instead:Make the customer experience part of your brand. Communicate clearly, show up on time, clean up after the job, and send a thank-you message.

Little extras that go a long way:

• Sending a reminder the day before the appointment

• Bringing in their trash cans if they’re out

• Sending a quick “thanks again” message after the job

People remember how you made them feel — and they’ll tell their friends.

Final Thoughts

Running a home service business comes with a learning curve — but avoiding these 10 mistakes will save you time, money, and stress. Focus on being organized, professional, and easy to work with, and the referrals will start rolling in.

Need help getting more local customers in Connecticut? That’s exactly what we’re here for. LocaLink helps trustworthy home service pros get found and hired in their community — no fancy marketing degree required.