Starting a Successful Carpet/upholstery Cleaning Business Based Out of your Home

Author:Kenneth Bricker

There are two fairly new, and very important conditions existing

today that have not only made the carpet cleaning industry

a 'billion dollar business,' but also practically guarantee your

success as an entrepreneur in this field.

First, almost all homes and office buildings built since 1960 have

wall-to-wall carpeting. Secondly, the replacement costs have caused

people to want to make what they already own last longer, especially

in the case of carpeting, which is a sizeable investment.

It\'s true that people everywhere try to save money by handling these

jobs themselves. However, most people are just too busy to handle

all their do-it-yourself projects. They continually put off until later any

chore that requires special equipment. Thus, they\'re more than willing

to pay an expert or a specialist to do this kind of work for them.

It doesn\'t take any special education, skill or experience to

operate a professional-type, deep-cleaning carpet cleaner.

Common advice is to line up customers in advance, then rent cleaning equipment

to provide the service. This may be the most economical way to get started

but is risky in that you are going into customers houses cold and trying

to appear professional. You had better know what you’re doing.

A word about equipment

Rental cleaners are usually “steam cleaning” systems. Technology has come a long way.

Steam cleaning takes hours to dry, inconveniencing the customer long after they have paid & you are gone. Issues with shrinkage and mold have brought new technology which provides a deeper cleaning and fast drying time (under 1 hour) leaving you with a happier customer. Repeat business and referrals are really what you need.

If you choose to rent equipment, make sure you get a good idea as to

daily costs. Unless you have a lot of experience, rent the equipment for

yourself and practice on your own carpet, then offer free cleanings to

family & neighbors to familiarize yourself with the process. You would

be well advised after that, and only after that, to line up customers in

advance as to not “waste” equipment rental costs.

Purchasing equipment may well depend on your start up budget but if you

are serious, this is the recommend way to start. Costs are low compared to

other home based businesses and generally run in the $3500-$5000

range. Financing is usually available and the provided supplies, advertising

materials, training and support could well be worth the initial investment.

Shy away from franchises because although the have the name recognition,

ongoing fees and their commissions will necessarily force you to charge

higher prices. Not what you want when starting out.

Choose a name. You need something easy to remember such as Jerry’s Carpet Care

or Carpets Unlimited etc. Don’t use Acme 2 U Carpet Cleaning (shady) or

Greg & Roses Ultimate Carpet Cleaning Service for You and the Ones You Love…..

You get the picture. Keep it credible & simple.

You Don’t Need a Website. If you can put up a simple website for free

or very cheap, for your customers informative purposes only, go for it.

Do not depend on a web presence to advertise. Contrary to what some may

tell you, trying to get customers online is neither efficient nor cost effective.

Save it for when you have an advertising budget (from profits) more specifically

one that utilizes off line advertising first. Then focus on the internet.

Setting up a website, trying to attract customers will surely take way too

much time away from the thing you really need to do…..

Some companies offering start up business packages will provide you with

a beginning supply of flyers, business cards etc. You can order more from them

or scan the ones you have to your computer, modify them and print out

your own. Consider the costs of ink (particularly color), local print shop prices

& the cost of ordering from the company direct to find your best option.

Generally, printing your own will be the cheapest way to get what you need

to get started. Many programs are available to design your own materials.

Keep costs low at first. You can always increase advertising as your profits rise.

Post business cards, postcard sized flyers to any & all local store bulletin

boards you know of. If you are so inclined, pass out flyers door to door.

Also consider paying neighborhood kids to do this for you. (Be sure to get

their parents permission)

Word of mouth advertising is huge in this business. Do some free jobs in

exchange for referrals. The cost of you cleaning a single carpet is very low.

Satisfied customers referrals are the best advertisement you can get.

Talk, talk, talk! Tell people about your new business. Bring it up in general

conversations. This in itself will get you customers without even asking

for their business.

Visit apartment managers. Many require their tenants to have annual cleanings

done. Offer to clean their elevator carpets for free in exchange for posting

a small card in the elevators:

This carpet cleaned courtesy ……

Call now for special tenant rates!

There are many ways to get new customers without spending a lot of money.

Use your imagination. People will always need your service and the profit

margin is such that you can quickly recoup your costs.

Always look and act professional (some companies provide a uniform…a great idea)

Be courteous and polite.

Check local pricing and start somewhat below them. Offer discounts on

additional services (area rugs, upholstery etc.)

Upholstery cleaning packages can also be used for vehicle interior cleaning

opening a whole new market for you.

A Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning Business offers one of the easiest, low cost

start up of any home based business

It\'s easy & satisfying work and can be done right from your home.

Full time, part time or on the side in your spare time!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-opportunities-articles/starting-a-successful-carpetupholstery-cleaning-business-based-out-of-your-home-244041.html

Article by Kenneth Bricker
Helping people to start and run small home based businesses.
For more articles and information on the quickest way to start
Visit: http://www.mydrytech.com