Like good love, a good handyman is hard to find. A good handyman will know how to fix more than a few little things around the house. He’ll also know how to do minor plumbing and electrical work, demo walls, paint, tile, caulk and more. And once you’ve found that special someone, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without him.

Here are some pointers to help you find a keeper:

The Initial Set Up:

• Use HomeAdvisor.com’s ProFinder to find local pros; also ask friends and neighbors for referrals.
• Read online ratings and reviews to see what past customers have to say about the handyman’s work.
• Call a few different businesses for an initial meeting, keeping your options open.

 

 

Preparing for the First Meeting:

• Do a quick walk-through of your home and make a list of items in need of repair (e.g., dripping faucets, loose cabinet doors, etc.).
• Decide whether you will have the repairs done all at once or in phases.
• Prioritize your lists – and decide on your must-haves and deal breakers.

 

 

Getting to Know Each Other:

• Walk your would-be handymen through your home, describing each of the items on your list.
• Inquire about their proficiency in each area.
• Ask for references, examples and before and after photos from past jobs.
• Seek tips on additional home maintenance and preventative care measures.

 

 

Making a Commitment:

• Choose a handyman who you think is not only capable of doing the job, but who is also trustworthy and professional.
• Obtain a written agreement defining the scope of work, costs and payment schedule. Many handymen will guarantee their work for up to one year; get guarantees in writing too.
• Once your handyman has completed a few tasks to your satisfaction, consider offering the opportunity to complete larger-scale jobs.
• When your handyman wows you with his reliability and skills, return the favor by writing good online reviews and recommending him to your friends and neighbors.