Looking for Recommendations on Affordable, Reliable Landscaping Tools
Hi everyone! I’m fairly new to landscaping started this year, and I’m looking for some advice from the pros who’ve been doing this a lot longer than I have. Right now, I handle everything from gutter cleanings and hedge trimmings (boxwoods, hedges, leaf removal) to weed eating and general yard work. I’m working with basic tools and a lot of heart and passion. Most of the money I earn goes right back into the business, so I don’t have top-tier equipment yet. I’m hoping to get recommendations on reliable, affordable leaf blowers, trimmers, hedge clippers, and any other tools or gear that make jobs easier and more efficient. I’m still researching and plan to upgrade one piece at a time as I can afford it. Any tips or advice would mean a lot thank you all in advance!New, Used, or Lease? And WHEN?
As a small business owner it has been nothing short of challenging to build a business from nothing. I came from nothing and have built this thing from the ground up. I didn't have a lot of money. When I first started I couldn't afford company vehicles. I eventually bought used vehicles in the $20K-$30K range and financed them and that was fine until I unexpectedly slowed down and had to sell off my trucks just to survive. Once I rebuilt from the slow down I decided to buy used vans around $9K to $10K cash. Right now I have 6 vehicles. One of those vehicles needs major work done. And the others are all 100K miles or more and I feel like they are just ticking time bombs. I want the reliability of newer, or leased vehicles but the risk intimidates me after my struggles in 2022. Is there a formula for when you should go from paying cash for used, to financing newer/new, and to finally leasing? Is there a revenue metric, a number of vehicles in your fleet, or some other sign that going one route over the other is more advantageous or less risky? Thanks for taking the time to read this and share feedback!Sticker SHOCK! 😲
I have been doing my office's annual purge and came across some old invoices from the earliest power equipment my business purchased. Believe it or not, some of the equipment I use has doubled in price for the replacement model at today's cost. Since it is our responsibility as owners to be profitable enough to replace/repair equipment as needed, I find myself adjusting my equipment cost recovery number upward almost monthly in my budget. How often are you adjusting your cost recovery upward to adjust for the ongoing inflation?You Quit Your Job to Start a Business — So Why Gamble on a Used Truck?
Everybody says the same thing: “Just buy a used truck, it’s cheaper.” Yet, That same truck breaks down 3–6 months later. Now your jobs are delayed. You’re borrowing vehicles from your spouse or rental. You’re stressed out and behind on bills. And suddenly the “cheaper option” is costing you way more. Here's my personal take: You quit your job ... You are betting 100% on yourself, to care for your livelihood. If you’re betting your whole future on this business — why risk it with a vehicle that might leave you stranded? I hate blaming others, or the lack of accountability. So if I can control one variable — like my ability to show up to the job, that will pay me for my services... I’m going to do it. But that's just my opinion. My hot take, What do you all think? I created this visual for myself to follow and share whenever anyone is deciding to get a vehicle.Maintaining Your Equipment: Tips & Tricks from the Pros”
As a business owner, keeping your equipment in good shape is key to staying efficient and reliable. I’ve learned that regular maintenance and knowing when to upgrade or replace tools can save a lot of headaches down the road. What are some of the tools or equipment you can’t run your business without? And how do you keep track of maintenance or repairs?”* Maintaining your equipment is essential for keeping your business running smoothly. Over the years, I’ve learned that regular maintenance and staying on top of repairs can prevent costly breakdowns and delays. Some of my go-to tips are scheduling monthly check-ups, keeping track of warranties, and having a solid backup plan for when equipment goes down unexpectedly.
