Sometimes there is just more work around the house than you can handle. When you find yourself in that position, hiring a handyman may be the best thing to do.

But where do you start? When hiring a handyman, you should always do your homework.

Easy Steps to Hiring a Handyman

1. Examine your house. Walk through your house and examine problem areas. What needs to be done? What is the most important project? Are you going to need a handyman for just a few days, or are you looking at a long-term working relationship?
2. Make a list. Write down everything that needs to be done. List high-priority projects first. These might include roofing problems, water leaks, issues with windows, or anything else that could become a more serious problem if not fixed as soon as possible.
3. Decide on a budget. How much can you afford? If you don’t have a large chunk of change to drop on a major project, consider doing it in phases. Take a long look at your finances before you commit to hiring a handyman.
4. Advertise or call. If there is a particular handyman you have heard good things about, give him a call. If you are advertising for a handyman, make it clear what kind of work you need to have done. A handyman with good plumbing experience, for instance, might not be able to handle replacing that electrical panel. You will need to choose a handyman whose strengths reflect your needs.
5. Ask for references. Always get references or examples of previous work! If the handyman you hire is contracted by a remodeling firm, speak to them about his expertise. If you feel unsure about a handyman’s experience, go with your instincts and look elsewhere.
6. Walk through. Decided on a handyman to help you out? Great! Now go on a walk-through of your home, explaining in detail your list of jobs. Ask for his or her honest assessment of the work.
7. Agree on Rates. How much will you pay? Will you pay by the hour or by the job? If you are working with a contracting firm, how much will they charge and what does that include?
8. Set a start time! If you are happy with your choice of handyman, agree on your list, set your start date, and get to work!

Hiring a handyman can be an exciting step for a homeowner. Take your time in choosing a handyman who will do a good job on your property for years to come.

About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.