I want start a landscaping business?

Question

i am 19 years old living in north GTA AND I'VE BEEN CUTTING GRASS since i was 11 years old, i have had so much fun doing it but not alot of money, i have a mower but no truck or expensive stuff like that, just a broom and rack anbd a standard walking lawn mower

how should i start this

Answer 1

You may want to ask around on this site....

http://www.lawnsite.com

It's a forum for people in the business.

Check out the forum "Starting A Lawn Care & Landscaping Business".

Lots of good tips from experienced people.

Answer 2

Probably not what you want to hear but, I would suggest getting a job with a local landscaper and learn the ropes for a couple of years.  There is a LOT more to landscaping than just cutting grass and raking leaves.  You would definitely need some more equipment and that can get pretty expensive.  However, if you are set to do this now you could have some cards made up and offer your labor for free to a few people that you know as long as they provide materials.  If they like your work give them a handful of business cards and ask them to recommend you to others.  Also, take photos of the work you did so you can have a portfolio to show off your work to perspective new clients.  Good Luck

By the way....I'm in North GA, maybe you can start with my yard!

Answer 3

i suggest going door to door to your neighbors.  tell them you are a kid from the neighborhood and give them a really good price, once they do start to use your services make sure you do other stuff for free- like weeding their flower beds or sweeping. just something for them to notice that you're competent and committed to your job but without the expensive pricing. If  you have no luck, then maybe as a last resort you should do the first one for free and if they like your services then retain you.

Answer 4

I am an engineer and landscape designer, and I got my correspondence training thru Lifetime Career Schools now located in PA. Search thru google. It was a good course, and I got a certificate as Landscape Designer.

If you have this training, you will be more valuable to yourself and your clients. You can pick up jobs in creating planting beds, planting trees, simple deck designs, over shades, sub-contracted sprinklers, stone walks, tree removal, etc. My best work is providing the design on paper with color coding and contacting subs to quote on the work. And as you observe the work in progress, you will learn how to do it yourself.

Good luck.