It is indeed interesting to consider the existence of handyman service apps, which have revolutionized the process of finding and hiring professionals for a variety of services such as home repairs, cleaning, and maintenance. These apps have disrupted the traditional model of finding a handyman through word-of-mouth recommendations or classified ads, by making it easier and more convenient for customers to find and hire professionals for their specific needs.
However, the concept of handymen providing various services is not a new one. If we time traveled, in ancient times, handymen were highly valued members of society. They possessed a diverse range of skills and provide various services such as repairing tools and equipment etc. These skilled professionals were often referred to as handymen.
Finding and hiring a handyman for home services is a daunting task. The invent of handyman service apps made it easier for people to find skilled professionals for their specific needs.
In this article, we will explore the incredible business model of handyman apps and its future.
The need for Handyman service app
Today’s economy is more fluid, with many working multiple jobs or freelancing. This can lead to less time for household tasks. Furthermore, more people work from home and may need to take care of household repairs or maintenance during the workday.
The emergence of the gig economy has increased the demand for home repair and maintenance. As a result, many skilled workers are now looking for gig opportunities through apps. This trend provides an opportunity for handyman apps to bridge the gap between service providers and customers.
Three sided marketplace
Handyman service apps are built on a three-sided marketplace model where there are three main players involved: service providers, customers, and platform owners.
- Service providers are skilled professionals who offer their handyman services through the app.
- Customers are individuals who use the app to find a suitable service provider.
- The platform owners are businesses develop and operate the Handyman service app.
This is a proven business model that connects service providers and customers in a seamless and convenient way. Customers can easily find service providers for their specific needs, and service providers can access customers through the app. Platform owners benefit from the fees charged to service providers and customers.
Revenue models
The revenue model chosen by a handyman service app will depend on its target market and the preferences of its users. Regardless of the revenue model chosen, the success of a handyman app depends on its ability to provide a seamless and convenient experience for both service providers and customers.
There are different ways in which the handyman services can generate revenues some of the common revenue models are:
Commission based model
In this model, the platform owner charges a commission on the total transaction value of each job completed through the app. The commission rate can vary from platform to platform, but it usually ranges from 10% to 30%
This model is beneficial for platform owners because they earn revenue without incurring significant operational costs.
Subscription-based model
This model involves charging service providers a subscription fee to access the app’s features and services. The subscription fee can be a monthly or annual fee, and it may include additional benefits such as premium listings or higher visibility in search results. This model is beneficial for service providers who use the app regularly and require access to its full range of services.
Lead-generation based model
The platform owner charges service providers for access to leads generated by the app. Service providers pay a fee for each lead they receive, regardless of whether the lead converts into a job. This model is beneficial for service providers who only require occasional access to the app’s services and do not want to commit to a subscription fee.
Key players in the industry
1. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is an online and mobile marketplace that allows people to outsource small jobs and tasks to others in their local area. It was founded in 2008 by Leah Busque in Boston and launched as a mobile app in 2010. The company was acquired by IKEA in 2017 but continues to operate as a separate entity.
TaskRabbit operates on a platform business model, connecting people who need help with tasks to individuals who are willing and able to complete them. The company charges a commission on each transaction and provides insurance coverage for all tasks performed through its platform.
Key Features:
TaskRabbit offers the following range of features for users to find and hire taskers. These include:
Task Posting:
Users can post task details including the type of task, the location, and the budget.
Task Matching:
TaskRabbit uses an algorithm to match users with available taskers in their nearby location.
In-App Chat:
Users can chat with taskers through the TaskRabbit app to discuss service-related queries.
Payment Processing:
TaskRabbit handles all payment processing to provide seamless transactions for users.
Ratings and Reviews:
Users can rate and review taskers based on their performance. Which helps to ensure quality and trust on the platform.
2. Thumbtack
Thumbtack is an online marketplace that connects customers with local professionals. They provide various services, including home improvement, personal training, event planning, and more. It was founded in 2009 by Marco Zappacoasta, Jonathan Swanson, and Sander Daniels in San Francisco, California.
Thumbtack operates on a lead-generation business model. Customers can request quotes for services they need. Thumbtack sends those requests to professionals who match the criteria. Professionals pay a fee to submit a quote to win the business.
Key features of Thumbtack:
Thumbtack offers several unique features apart from other online marketplaces including:
Instant match:
Thumbtack’s Instant Match feature uses machine learning algorithms to connect customers with professionals based on factors like location, availability, and experience.
Verified Reviews:
Thumbtack’s review system is verified and helps to ensure that reviews are accurate and trustworthy.
In-App Communication:
Customers can communicate with professionals through the Thumbtack app to discuss project details, etc.
Project Management:
A project management tool that allows professionals to keep track of all their ongoing projects, including timelines, budgets, and deadlines.
Payment protection:
Thumbtack offers payment protection for both customers and professionals. It ensures the payment is processed securely.
3. HomeAdvisor
HomeAdvisor was founded in 1999 as ServiceMagic. In 2012, the company rebranded as HomeAdvisor to reflect its shift towards becoming a more comprehensive platform for connecting homeowners with trusted service professionals across a wider range of home services.
HomeAdvisor has since grown to become one of the leading online marketplaces for home services, with over 13 million service requests processed each year.
The business model of HomeAdvisor
HomeAdvisor’s business model is based on connecting homeowners with qualified service professionals to complete their home improvement projects. Homeowners can use the platform to search for local service professionals and request quotes for specific projects. Professionals can use this platform to pay a fee for each lead they receive. It also offers a range of additional services for professionals, including online advertising, website design, and customer relationship management tools.
Key features of HomeAdvisor
ProFinder service:
It matches homeowners with service professionals based on their specific needs and location.
True Cost Guide:
HomeAdvisor’s True Cost Guide provides estimated costs for specific projects. Based on data from completed projects and local market trends.
Future of Handyman service apps
The handyman industry is growing, and the demand for handyman apps also increases. Here are some trends we can expect to see in the coming years:
More and more people are turning to find handymen digitally – From booking appointments to paying for services. Handyman apps will need to keep up with this demand to stay relevant.
Handyman apps may start to specialize in specific areas, such as plumbing, electrical or carpentry, etc.
The app will need to provide a seamless customer experience to stay competitive. This includes easy-to-use interfaces, quick response times, and transparent pricing.
Potential Challenges
With the growth of the handyman industry and the popularity of handyman apps, there are some potential challenges to consider:
Competition:
As more handyman service apps enter the market, competition will become fierce. Apps will need to differentiate themselves and offer unique services to stand out.
Trust issues:
Customers may have trust issues when hiring someone they found on an app. Handyman apps will need to provide background checks and ensure that their workers are reliable and trustworthy.
Legal issues:
Handyman apps may face legal challenges if workers are not classified properly as independent contractors or employees. This could lead to legal battles.
Opportunities for Growth:
There are opportunities for growth in the handyman app industry:
Expansion into new markets:
Handyman apps can expand into new markets. It includes commercial properties, vacation rentals, and property management companies.
Partnership with other businesses:
Partnering with other businesses like home improvement stores, help to offer exclusive services to customers.
Innovation:
Handyman apps can innovate by using new technologies. It includes virtual reality, to provide better customer experiences and more accurate quotes.
Conclusion:
The overall business model of handyman service app is an incredible one. It has the potential to revolutionize the home services industry.
From a business perspective, these apps offer a number of benefits. They provide a platform for service providers to showcase their skills and connect with potential customers. This can help them grow their business and increase their revenue.
At the same time, these apps offer advantages for homeowners as well. They make it easy to find reliable and trustworthy professionals at competitive prices. And offer a level of convenience and flexibility that traditional home service providers simply can’t match.
