Two of my rental properties are vacant and I need a handyman to repair them. My usual handyman left town for a while so I decided to hire a new one. I need to get someone soon so that the property is ready to be rented again. The property needs minor repairs, painting, door and windows repairs and installation of laminated wood floors in two bedrooms. It’s been a nightmare.
Most handymen won’t give me an estimate over the phone. Some handymen wanted to charge a fee for the free estimate. The fee would be refunded if the work is done. The handymen wanted half of the total up front and the difference when the work is done. There is no way I would give them any money before he work is finished. It is not unusual for the repair guy to take off with the money never to seen again. I once hired a handyman standing outside a do-it yourself outlet and it did not work very well. Never give a handyman any money before the work is finished.
A few handymen I had an appointment with did not show up for the estimate at all. I was are waiting at the property for ever and they didn’t show up. Other repairmen told me they had experience in everything, plumbing, electricity, tiles, installing doors, windows, etc. It was sad to find out they don’t have a clue of how to do the job. Handymen will take multiple jobs at the same time. They know it is impossible to finish on time but since they already have half the money in deposit they know you won’t get anyone else and you are forced to wait until they finish the other job.
Dealing with handymen in Miami is a very challenging and nerve wrecking expericence. Be careful and ask questions before you hire anyone. Ask for references and go to see the house they last repaired. Get their home phone, driver license, social security number and other contact information. Make sure the handyman is licensed and insured so there are no problems in case of an accident. Also the handyman should sign a general release of liability. This release will help you in case the handyman gets hurt and then wants to sue you for damages.
You must get everything in writing. Do a contract of exactly what they are supposed to do and how much they are going to charge. Sometimes they give you an estimate but the actual amount changes and you have to pay double by the time the work is finished.
Finding a good professional handyman in Miami is a challenge. If you find an honest, hardworking, experienced handyman don’t lose him. Pay the handyman immediately when the work is finished. Give him a tip if you really like the work performed.
Hector Lesende is owner/licensed real estate in Miami real estate. Serving Miami, Miami Lakes real estate, Coral Gables real estate, Hialeah Real Estate Miami-Dade and Broward counties. We offer a South Florida foreclosure list. Property Search