Handyman Rates

Handyman rates might not be what you want to consider — you might be able to do some of the work yourself and the other repairs might be the reason you're selling your old house anyway. But selling a house with obvious problems, ripped screens, broken plaster, dripping sinks, outdated floor tiles, can make your house less desirable to buyers. They may 'take a pass' or you may not get offers in the price range you were looking for. Better to get the 'tick list' out and get it over with before the potential buyers see the problem.

If you really can get to all of the items on the list, have that kind of time and turn out really good results then go ahead and do it. But, if your repairs are going to look like a 'band aid' then hire a pro and get it all done faster and better than your could on your own.

It's best to get a handyman you can trust that costs more than one you'll wonder where they are half the time or what they're doing and have to babysit and feed. Other than handyman rates, how do you know if they're ok to hire?

Friends and family

Ask your friends and family if they can recommend anyone. Ask them if they've actually used this person and what they 'felt' about using them. Ask to come over and inspect any work the handyman did for them and see if you like the results.

Angie's list

Most cities have an Angie's list and even as it has grown and become bigger it is still a reliable and accurate resource for referrals for services of all types. Listing include ratings, rants and recommendations from real people. There's no guarantee on services but it's way better than looking for pretty ads in the telephone directory!

Referrals from Neighbors, PTA, School, Church or Synagogue referrals

Many of the people in your community may have a recommendation of someone they have used in the past or know personally. Since the handyman comes via a community referral, it's more likely they'll give a good price and make sure you're satisfied; otherwise you can ruin their natural market! Handyman rates for people you know are usually lower than the 'man for hire' who needs to advertise to be found.

Chicago Handyman associations or regulatory organizations don't exist.

Use the Better Business Bureau to double check anyone you hire via the internet or local advertising. The referrals they provide are hard to verify so do your homework if you want to be sure.

Here's a directory in Chicago that you can use other than Angie's list. We like it because you can post your need and get online quotes and estimates but don't take responsibility for anyone you hire through its use: Bidclerk

Construction jobs

See a house being built in the neighborhood? Is the worksite clean, the work looks nice and the results are well done? Stop by at lunch and see if any of the carpenters 'moonlight' on weekends. Avoid any site that looks messy, has materials scattered around or gives you a bad feeling; clean workplaces usually indicate respect and cares and limited waste of tools, time and resources.

Handyman tip — A good handyman isn't so hard to find. Friends' recommendations count for a lot and you should feel comfortable having this person in your house, having access to your private places without feeling you have to stand over them. You can arrange per day, per week or per project rate but don't shop solely on price. Bob Villa is not out there for you to use but the guy or gal you can trust, who does diligent, competent and timely work, is just a few phone calls away.

DMD Chicago Realty reminds you that handyman rates are like any bid you take; the lowest doesn't mean the best price and the highest doesn't mean the best work. Use your common sense and good luck!