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The Pros and Cons of DIY Home Renovations

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It is difficult to deny that creating or fixing something with your own hands can be incredibly rewarding. Yet looking past the initial excitement of saving money and achieving something yourself, reality demands some serious assessment and consideration.

DIY home renovations offer a unique set of advantages and challenges that homeowners must weigh before embarking on their transformational journeys. So today we examine DIY home renovations, exploring the potential benefits and drawbacks of taking on such projects independently.

Advantages of DIY Home Renovations

There are a range of different advantages when working on your own renovations at home. Below we have listed some of the reasons that are most popular for Canadian homeowners, since they tend to carry the most emotional weight and influence their decisions the most.

Saving Money

Undoubtedly, one of the most appealing aspects of DIY home renovations is the potential to save a significant amount of money. By eliminating labor costs, homeowners can stretch their budgets further and allocate funds to other aspects of the project. This financial freedom can make ambitious renovations more attainable for those on a tight budget.

Personal Satisfaction

The feeling of accomplishment that accompanies completing a DIY project should not be ignored either. It can be an amazing thing to witness your own hands transform something old and worn to something new and functional. Each step of the process becomes a personal sign of your skills and dedication.

Control and Customization

When you work in DIY home renovations, you gain the absolute control over the design and execution of your project. From selecting all the materials and finishes, to ensuring every detail aligns with your vision, you have the freedom to customize every aspect to suit your personal preferences. This level of creative control can result in a space that truly reflects your style.

Challenges of DIY Home Renovations

On the other side of the coin we find some of the different disadvantages of taking charge of an entire renovation project. Many Canadians simply do not have the time or skills required, or perhaps they worry about other aspects. Read on to see which section resonates the most with you.

Time and Skill

While DIY projects can save money, they often demand a substantial investment of time and the possession of specific skills. Underestimating the time required to complete a project can lead to frustration and unfinished endeavors.

Perhaps you will need time off from work, in which case your budget might suffer in turn. Additionally, tasks such as electrical work, plumbing, or structural changes demand a level of expertise that not all homeowners possess.

Quality and Safety

Another critical challenge with most DIY home renovations, has to do with maintaining high-quality workmanship and adhering to safety standards. Without professional training, there is a significant risk of subpar results, that compromise the longevity and functionality of the renovation.

Hidden Costs

Finally, it is easy to focus solely on the immediate costs of materials and overlook potential hidden expenses. Mistakes or unexpected challenges may necessitate additional purchases and repairs, which can quickly escalate the overall project cost. Proper planning and accurate budgeting are crucial, in order to avoid any financial surprises.

Balancing DIY and Professional Help

A balanced approach that combines DIY efforts with professional assistance is often a prudent strategy. This approach lets you tackle projects that align with your skills, while simultaneously outsourcing the more complex tasks to experts.

For example, you might handle painting and furniture assembly yourself while hiring professionals for tasks like electrical wiring or structural modifications. You should therefore recognize when certain projects demand the expertise and experience of professionals. Good luck!

The Benefits of Joining the HandyForce Franchise

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Are you looking to start a new business venture with a proven track record, impeccable market opportunities, and untapped potential? We are currently expanding our reach in Canada, and looking for passionate and hardworking people wishing to make a difference in the home services industry.

We will provide training, access to our extensive software packages and everything else you will need to ensure success. Does that sound interesting? Then please keep reading in order to learn about all the benefits you get when joining the HandyForce Franchise. Enjoy!

Avoid starting from scratch

One of the biggest advantages when joining our franchising program is that we have already gone through the startup phase, considered the overall business plan, and already established our brand and reputation.

This saves you a lot of time in building something from the ground up, as well as helps steer you clear of all the common pitfalls that new business owners tend to experience. With us you get a headstart unlike any other in the industry.

Get industry specific training and advice

We believe in educating and training each member of the HandyForce franchise, whether it be the owner or a passionate employee. In this way we ensure that everyone involved is working with the same mindset, and has access to the same tools and information.

Our training involves and 8 week course where we thoroughly educate and explain all you need to know about handling customers, performing the actual work, using our unique software and everything else.

Access to our bespoke software

There are quite a few different reasons why we have been having excellent results, both in terms of sales as well as customer satisfaction. One of the major reasons though, is our bespoke software platform that was built by us and for us.

We call it the “Portal”, and the software allows you to handle everything related to the business in one convenient place. From dealing with customer onboarding, keeping track of schedules, expenses and quotes, to measuring performance and customer values.

Nobody else in the industry has this tool, and we firmly believe this tool has been instrumental in the positive results we have been seeing year after year.

Focus on what you are good at

Most new business owners are overwhelmed by the amount of extra work not directly related to their industry. When it comes to the industry of home services, you will not only need to be able to deliver good and solid work, but also come up with a business model, plan for expenses, set budgets, hire people and many other things.

By leveraging our experience and expertise in this area, you gain access to a proven business model that has been improved and tested over time. This lets you focus on the areas which you excel at, and leave the rest to us.

Become part of a unique concept

Most people think of fast food restaurants when thinking of franchises. There are not that many franchises in the industry of home services, meaning the competition is less fierce, and the potential rewards are that much greater.

Our unique concept has the potential to grow exponentially over time, and seeing as home Canadian homeowners spend continually more money on renovations and home projects every year, the industry itself is also growing. That’s a win-win!

Adaptive Design for Homes with Multigenerational Families

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Being able to provide a comfortable home for all generations of your family is something more and more people strive towards. Having your loved ones close by, but still able to enjoy a level of privacy can be difficult without the proper tools and ideas to make it all happen in a seamless and practical manner.

So as the dynamics of families evolve, creating a space that fosters togetherness while

respecting each individual in the home has become a design challenge. By following some of the tips laid out in this article, our hope is that you can get the inspiration and ideas needed to make your dream come true. Enjoy!

Consider the Desired Functions

In order to make the most of your home, it is important to first consider how your family can benefit from this new living arrangement. For instance, if streamlining shared responsibilities is a primary goal, consider incorporating an open kitchen area equipped with a double sink.

This thoughtful addition enables multiple family members to collaborate seamlessly during meal preparations, transforming daily chores into bonding opportunities. The design could also encompass designated storage spaces for each generation’s cooking essentials, fostering an organized and efficient culinary environment.

Beyond collaborative spaces, another prevalent incentive for multigenerational living revolves around financial efficiency. Many families choose to bring aging parents or in-laws into their homes to collectively manage expenses and caregiving responsibilities.

In such cases, opting for a more segmented living arrangement might prove beneficial. This allows family members to enjoy togetherness when desired while also preserving individual privacy and autonomy.

Making the Most of the Outdoor Space

Having three or more different generations living under the same roof can sometimes feel a bit claustrophobic for the family members. In order to combat this, creating an inviting outdoor space where members can go to be alone is a great option.

When designing your outdoor space it is important to consider the interests of every generation. Young children might wish for a play area, while teenagers might enjoy a pool. Parents might want an area for outdoor cooking, and grandparents might be more interested in seating zones in the shade or gardening areas.

Making the Home Accessible

In case you are inviting elderly parents or in-laws to stay at your home for an extended period, or even permanently, it might be a good idea to invest in some different ways to help improve the accessibility.

This can include  features like ramps, wider doorways, and lever handles to ensure the home is accessible for all family members, including those with mobility challenges. As for the bedrooms and bathrooms, additional railings and places to hold on to can greatly increase their autonomy and ability to function without needing outside help.

Let Everyone Voice Their Opinions

By involving all generations and family members in the initial planning, you will be able to create a home that caters to all the various requirements, and at the same time fosters a shared sense of ownership and unity.

If you at any point are feeling stuck, remember that professional home service companies exist, and that their experience is something you can make good use of. Chances are that they might just have a good idea to solve that last issue you have been trying to work out. Good luck!

The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Home Renovations

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Beyond its positive impact on the planet, completing home renovations with eco-friendly practices and materials provides a range of benefits, especially for Canadian homeowners that use a large portion of the monthly expenses for heating and energy.

From improved indoor air quality to reduced energy bills in the face of varying climates, these choices resonate strongly with the challenges and opportunities that Canadian homeowners encounter. So discover how these eco-friendly renovations can enhance the comfort and functionality of your home, and even also contribute to a brighter and greener future. Enjoy!

Energy Efficiency and Lower Utility Bills

Among the top reasons for choosing eco-friendly renovations, lies the fact that you get a great opportunity for significantly reducing your household’s energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills. By upgrading the insulation in your walls, attic, and basement, you create a thermal barrier that helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature.

When combined with properly sealed windows, doors, and air ducts, this “thermal envelope” ensures that your home remains warm in the winter and cool in the summer without relying heavily on heating or cooling systems. Installing energy-efficient windows with advanced glazing can further contribute to energy savings by preventing heat transfer.

These improvements not only reduce your carbon footprint but also make a noticeable impact on the air quality itself, resulting in cleaner air, a healthier lifestyle and a more comfortable living environment.

Increased Property Value and Market Appeal

In the Canadian real estate market, there is a growing demand for environmentally conscious homes due to the many benefits they bring. That means potential buyers are valuing energy-efficient features and sustainable practices higher than ever before. By investing in eco-friendly renovations, you not only improve your home’s marketability but can also potentially increase its resale value.

This is because buyers often are willing to pay a premium for homes that come with reduced operating costs and a smaller carbon footprint. Features like solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and energy-efficient appliances can set your home apart from the competition, attracting environmentally conscious buyers who see the long-term benefits of sustainable living.

Long-Term Savings and ROI

Many people are under the impression that these renovation projects are an expense, and that they are not financially sound. And while eco-friendly renovations may require an initial investment, the long-term savings they provide are in many cases quite substantial.

By focusing on energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED lighting, programmable thermostats, and high-efficiency appliances, as well as enhanced insulation and building envelope improvements,  your renovation project can lead to a noticeable reduction in utility bills over time. It can also help with lower maintenance costs and increased durability for your home overall.

It is also important to remember that these savings accumulate over the years, often outweighing the upfront expenses of the renovation within 3-5-10 years, depending on the improvements. Beyond the financial benefits, these upgrades contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle and a more comfortable home environment.

Government Incentives and Savings

Staying on the topic of costs and money, the Canadian government offers various incentives and rebates to encourage homeowners to pursue eco-friendly renovations. These incentives can significantly offset the upfront costs associated with sustainable upgrades in some cases.

From grants for energy-efficient appliance purchases to rebates for home energy assessments and renewable energy installations, these programs are designed to make environmentally friendly choices more accessible to homeowners.

By taking advantage of these incentives, you not only save money on renovation expenses but also contribute to reducing your overall environmental impact. Contact us at The HandyForce today, and learn more about your options!

Using Professional Contractors when Renovating Rental Properties

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If you own a rental property it is typically in your best interest to make sure the home is in good shape overall, but there are also certain renovations and upgrades you can make, in order to make it more attractive for new tenants, and thus increase the potential rental income.

At the same time, some upgrades will also help you achieve a better value for the property all together, so in this article we will help you understand which renovations yield the most value for typical rental properties in Canada. Enjoy!

The Role of Professional Contractors

While most landlords and rental organizations already outsource the expertise of professional contractors, others tend to go the DIY route whenever possible. And while it is understandable to aim for cost savings, professional contractors bring a level of skill and efficiency that can significantly impact the success of your renovation projects.

By entrusting certain aspects to experts, you can achieve high-quality results that ultimately contribute to higher tenant satisfaction and property value. Depending on your contract, you might also get warranties, removing any potential worry from the newly implemented renovation.

Maximizing ROI with Contractor Assistance

Another often overlooked aspect, is that professional contractors understand how to optimize renovations for both visual appeal and longevity. Investing in these services for crucial areas like plumbing, electrical work, or structural changes ensures that these elements are addressed correctly the first time.

By avoiding costly mistakes and redoing work, you not only save money in the long run but also enhance your rental property’s profitability by minimizing future maintenance expenses, and the contractor can help you pick up the renovation projects that yield the best return.

Efficiency and Time Savings

Time is money, especially in the world of rental properties. Professional contractors have the experience to complete projects efficiently and within a reasonable timeframe. This translates to faster turnover between tenants, reducing vacancy periods and ensuring a consistent rental income stream.

The ability for contactors to work quickly while maintaining quality allows you to start earning rental income sooner, offsetting the cost of hiring professionals. Plus, you will have more time to do what you prefer doing, rather than getting your hands dirty, or perhaps even be in over your head.

Market Competitiveness

As the rental market in certain areas of Canada is quite competitive, and as tenants often have several options to choose from, it is also important to consider the overall appeal of the place. Tenants are more likely to choose a rental property if everything is of good quality, rather than haphazardly put together.

A well-renovated property with professional finishes and attention to detail stands out from the crowd. This can justify slightly higher rental rates, enhancing your property’s income potential and providing a quicker return on your investment in contractor services.

Smart Investments for Long-Term Gains

By focusing on strategic renovations, maximizing rental income, and minimizing maintenance expenses, you are making smart investments that contribute to the ongoing success of your rental property.

And while the upfront cost of professional contractors may seem intimidating at the onset, it is essential to view these services as a means to achieve greater profitability in the long run. So, by partnering with professionals, perhaps us at The HandyForce, you will ensure that your renovations yield both immediate tenant attraction, as well as lasting financial gains.

Allocating Funds Wisely to Fit Any Renovation Budget

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Not all renovations are equally important, nor do they add the same level of value to your home. While creating a budget for renovations is a crucial step, it’s equally important to strategically allocate the funds to prioritize what is most necessary or what yields the highest return on investment.

By adopting this approach, you can ensure that every dollar spent enhances both your living space and the overall value of your property. In this article, we will provide you with the tools to achieve just that. So enjoy making the most out of your renovation project!

It All Starts With a List

To start out with, it is recommended that you define your immediate goals for renovation. Some people might be aiming for an improve quality of life, while others are more interested in maximizing the property value.

No matter what your goal is, it is important to keep it in mind throughout your planning stages, as it is easy to stray from it once you get to the actual budgeting and purchasing of goods. List out all the different things you would wish to include in your current renovation project without prejudice.

Make Priorities

Now that you have all your ideas listed, it is time to prioritize according to needs and wants. The most important areas to consider, are if you have any essential repairs that needs immediate attention in order to maintain the integrity of your home.

Once that is done, you can start a discussing in your household, and figure out which other items on the list deserves a spot high on the list. Be sure to take everyones opinion into account, in order to create a fair and balanced plan.

Calculate the Costs

Now it is time to do a quick and superficial analysis of the estimated cost of each item on your list. Do not worry too much about the exact amounts, but do try to get it as close to reality as possible.

At this point you can also figure out whether you wish to DIY, or go with a professional home service company in order to help you achieve the best results possible. While it might have an additional upfront cost by choosing a company to help you out, typically you will also get a longer lasting result, and of a higher quality.

Consider the Return on Investment

In case your current budget is not large enough to handle all items on your list, one way to decide which items stays or will have to wait, is to consider their return on investment. In the case of improving your insulation levels for instance, it is often something that will pay for itself quickly.

In the case of adding a swimming pool however, it typically is something that is an expense not only in the short term, but also in the long term, as it does not as much to the property value, and even costs money to maintain each year.

Create the Final Budget

Now you should have a good idea of which items on your list are the most important, the most crucial, and the most financially reasonable. Of course you can opt for the luxury items on your list that are not as economically viable, just be aware of what you are giving up instead. Good luck!

The Best Home Renovations for Increasing Resale Value

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Whether you are looking to get the most resale value out of your old and beloved home, or simply wish to spend your money the wisest, certain home renovations are known to provide better returns than others.

In this article we will go over the very best types of home renovations you can perform, in order to set yourself up for success when selling your home. We have tailored this list specifically to a Canadian audience, but many of these renovations also do well in the US and Europe for instance. Enjoy!

1. Renovating your kitchen

Perhaps no other home renovation can provide as much resale value as the kitchen. This is after all one of the rooms in which families spend the most time awake. And no matter if you are only using the microwave, or cooking gourmet meals on a daily basis, having a nice, functional and presentable kitchen will certainly entice future buyers.

Not only will this mean that your overall home can see an increase in value, it will also be a top selling point that convinces potential homebuyers to choose your home over the others on the market. If you are unsure where to start, renovating the kitchen is always a sure thing.

2. Renovating your bathroom

Next on our list is the bathroom. Once again an updated bathroom that keeps in line with the modern aesthetics and has a timeless feel can add significant value to your home. Some ideas to consider include upgrading the fixtures, adding new tiles, and installing a modern shower or bathtub.

In Canada the trend has been moving towards larger bathrooms than in previous decades, so if you have room for it, consider adding some square footage where possible. This can make the bathroom feel inviting and luxurious, adding even more value to your home.

3. Energy efficient renovations

Gone are the days of wasteful excess. Today many Canadian homebuyers are increasingly interested in efficient features, such as windows, insulation, and heating systems. By renovating with a mind for sustainability and efficiency, you can achieve reduced energy costs and make your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

4. Curb appeal

Spending some time on improving the curb appeal is important for making a good first impression on potential buyers, but be careful what you choose. Not all exterior projects provide the same levels of value.

A spa or pool will typically not increase the home value, and in some cases might even detract some value, or dissuade certain homebuyers due to the added upkeep and maintenance involved. Instead, you should consider adding universally useful features, such as a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen, as well as refreshing your landscaping with new plants and flowers.

Final thoughts

Remember that not all renovations are created equal when it comes to adding resale value. Before you begin any major renovation projects, it can be a good idea to consult with a real estate professional in order to determine which upgrades are likely to yield the best return on investment for your specific market.

The Future of Home Services: Owning a HandyForce Franchise

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With many industries and sectors experiencing a technological revolution, the home services industry has been somewhat stale in recent decades. Sure, newer equipment and power tools have made it easier for contractors, but many of the methods and principles that apply today were also in practice 30 or 40 years ago.

HandyForce is a company that aims to change all of this. With our cutting edge way of thinking, we are bringing the home services industry into the 21st century. And you can become part of it too, by joining The HandyForce! Sounds interesting? Read on to learn all about it!

Why choose the home services industry

Canadian homeowners are spending more money with each passing year on their renovation projects, and thus you are poised to enter a booming industry. As a HandyForce franchise owner, you can tap into this growing demand and build a profitable business.

Unlike many other industries, this area is not overly saturated with franchises, which allows for an easier market share, less competition and fewer costs associated with advertising and marketing. Add to this that there will always be a demand for skilled labor, and there are many good reasons to consider this industry.

Becoming part of a success story

By choosing to franchise with HandyForce, you stand to immediately get a head start on your competitors that go their own. As a franchisee you benefit from a proven business model, with an impressive track record of success.

The HandyForce has spent years refining its systems and processes to ensure that franchisees have everything they need to run a successful business, enabling you to quickly learn the ropes and grow your business in no time.

Tap into our existing goodwill

With a HandyForce franchise you will also quickly learn that customers recognize The HandyForce name, and know that they can expect quality service and professionalism. This is because we have already laid the groundwork in terms of establishing recognition and trust for our customers, making it easier for you to get new clients.

We invest in people

At The HandyForce we believe in people. In practice this means that we provide all franchisees with comprehensive training and support, including an initial training program, ongoing support, and access to a network of experienced franchisees.

This will ensure that you have the knowledge and resources you need to succeed in the industry, and that help is never far away if you need it. As long as you have a willingness to learn, you will fit right in with us.

Access to our bespoke software

Last but certainly not least, we have developed a completely unique and custom software platform. This tool called “Portal”, streamlines business operations and provides valuable insights into customer behavior, effectively using data-driven strategies and concepts known from the tech sector.

This puts The HandyForce franchise owners in an advantageous position with regards to the future, as other home service companies might be left behind due to not incorporating technology at the same effective rate as HandyForce.

The Top Home Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

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When renovating your home it is important to do it properly. Not only will incorrect renovations lead to potential safety risks, it can also decrease the value of your property, and make it much harder to sell on the market.

In order to help you with your next project, we have gathered a list of some of the most common mistakes Canadian homeowners make when renovating their homes. Keep these tips in mind when you are planning your next design, and achieve success effortlessly. Good luck!

Not spending enough time on the budget

One of the most common mistakes is rushing the budget. We get it. Not everyone loves looking at spreadsheets or researching costs of building materials. But it is a necessary step in ensuring a successful project that will not cost two or three times more than the money you initially thought.

Doing the wrong things yourself

While there are a number of things you can do yourself when renovating a home, you should know when to step back and let the professionals handle things.

When it comes to anything relating to the structural integrity, plumbing, electricity or general safety, having a skilled team of experts work on it will not only yield better results, but might also keep you out of trouble in terms of accidents or lawsuits.

Forgetting the permits

Many homeowners get excited about the prospects of adding a new extension to their home, removing the old stove, or one of the many other things that typically requires a permit. But not obtaining the correct permits can lead to many issues.

From being unable to sell your house until you fix the problems, to monetary fines or even dangerous situations. You should therefore always check whether your project requires acceptance from local authorities.

Ignoring safety issues

Similarly to permits, it is easy for homeowners to focus on all the more interesting parts of the project, but you should never forget to make sure that the work area is safe, and that any hazards are identified and addressed before starting the renovation.

It is critical to stay safe through any type of renovation project, as well as ensure the work that is done is up to code and industry standards. Ignoring common safety principles can lead to injuries and accidents, as well as fines from local authorities.

Thinking all renovations add value

Many people have heard stories of homeowners buying a house, fixing it up, and selling it for huge profits. But this is not always the case. You just do not hear as much from those who lost their life savings in a botched renovation project.

In order for your renovation to add value to your overall finances, not only should the cost be kept at an appropriate level, but your renovation should also entice potential buyers to be willing to pay that extra. Thus you should always choose styles and materials that will have as broad an appeal as possible.

Underestimating the time or money required

Finally, many Canadian homeowners think that renovating a complete kitchen can be done in a week. And while it might be possible in some cases, oftentimes once you start ripping out the old cabinets, you can find other hidden issues that will need fixing as well.

If you are also planning on moving electrical or plumbing installations for your hardware in the kitchen, you should also account for the fact that contractors might not be available the very next day. So expect plenty of time is required for each project, and be happily surprised if it goes faster than planned for.

Why a Shark Tank Investor Endorses HandyForce

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HandyForce is not just a leading Canadian home services company, but also a successful franchising opportunity that offers individuals the chance to become part of something larger. By allying with the right people, we have found success in more ways than we originally had hoped for.

That is why we are proud that Shark Tank investor Kevin Harrington is endorsing our business model and company overall. And while Harrington has not directly invested in the company, the endorsement goes a long way in greenlighting or concept and philosophy. So if you are interested in learning more, then this article is for you. Enjoy!

Our unique approach to the home services industry

One of the main reasons why Kevin Harrington has given his stamp of approval, has to do with the way we have modernized the business model.

We are using modern, data-driven techniques in order to gleam insights from customers and use that to improve our marketing and services.

And seeing as how Harrington himself is a seasoned entrepreneur and business expert himself, Harrington’s endorsement carries weight in more ways than one.

We are different from the competition

By allowing individual entrepreneurs to start their own home services businesses under the HandyForce brand, we are able to distinguish ourselves from competitors who mainly operate in local areas. We have thus become recognized in many different parts of Canada, and our mission is to become a household name.

Our franchising opportunity not only helps expand the reach and results of HandyForce itself, but also provides new opportunities for aspiring business owners looking to be a part of something bigger than themselves, and achieve a headstart in the industry at the same time.

We offer an unrivaled customer service experience

Harrington knows full well that acquiring the customers is only one piece of the puzzle. It is perhaps even more important to produce quality results that ensures customers recommend the company to others, as well as return for their next renovation projects.

That is why we are fully committed to offering the best customer service possible, as well as only delivering quality work, no matter the size of the job we are performing. All our employees are passionate about what they do, and that shows.

We professionally train our staff

Many other contracting companies simply hired skilled staff from the same talent pool of options. We do things differently in this field as well. Our main goal is to hire great people with potential, and then train them in our specific ways of doing business. This ensures the same level of quality no matter who performs the work, and we also make it possible for employees to rise in ranks over time.

Final thoughts

When all is said and done, Harrington’s endorsement of HandyForce is more than just a celebrity stamp of approval. As a savvy business person himself, he recognizes our potential for success and growth, and is willing to put his name behind it. Something we are extremely proud of.

Click here to watch our interview with Kevin Harrington!