Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 02, 1999 06:29am | #1

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   Ah, CC you have found one of those true joys of this business. For your situation, I would suggest you develop a network of different tradesmen.

   Find guys whose character is like the oath of a boy scout, you know; loyal, trustworthy, honest, etc.

   Further, look for the guys with as much experience as yourself, they can do the job, have the tools, and don't rely on excuses. Chances are they are in the same boat as you. As far as paying out top dollar, you should, considering the performance you'll receive, as well as getting you out of a pickle.

   You can draw from those you already know, although you may consider going outside of this circle.

   Best wishes in finding them, they're out there.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jan 02, 1999 09:59am | #2

   *I work alone 99 % of the time. I live in an area with a high immigrant pop. and I do get a guy from time to time. My mother who is now older has always been after me to find a retired guy who wants to keep busy. I am always been reluctant as many times it is very physical, but if you need an extra pair of hands it maybe worth it. God knows it couldn't be worse than many young guys I have hired. There is the advantage that they want something to do and the money is a bonus (no three kids and a wife to make you feel guilty when you don't have work yourself).I live near a college and have gotten part time students that have worked somewhat well. Again not much lay off guilt when they are working mostly for beer money.

2. 
   Mike | Jan 02, 1999 11:12am | #3

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   cc

   I too work alone most of the time. Like Rich suggested, maybe you can find one or two tradesmen that are in the same situation as you and use them when you need that extra hand. I have been fortunate enough to know a couple of guys that I have met over the years that I can call on to help me out occasionally. Scheduling can sometimes be a problem but we usually work it out. We get along well and their standards for workmanship are right up there with mine.

   Good Luck in your endeavors,

   Mike

3. 
   cc_ | Jan 03, 1999 08:05am | #4

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   I have been in the industry for over 21 years, I have run the gambit from employees, supervising, partnerships, lawyers,commercial work, and being screwed by General Contractors.
   I have finally settled into a nice niche, even though I work by myself, I have found a nice inner peace with myself and the quality of the work I do.
   The only problem I am having is finding help when I need it and that is only about 1 week out of every month. The rest of the time I always manage to do the work myself. Other than paying guys I know in the trades CASH on the weekends to get me out of a bind, I am sure there are many guys in my position and would appreciate any response they have.
   Thanks cc

4. 
   Guest_ | Jan 03, 1999 08:05am | #5

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   CC,
   I have gone that route and it has worked out fine.
   I rely on three others. I'm a cabinet maker and finish carpenter. I have a semi retired cabinet maker, a rental property owner (carpenter & ceramic tiler), and a jack of all trades carpenter. We usually split the labor on jobs we co-work together. This may run against the grain with some but it works out in the end. We take on jobs that we ordinaryly won't do by ourselves. The four of us are doing quite well. Three of the four of us are financially well off but one of the guys needs a little more work than the others so we usually check with him first. The thing is don't get greedy, and always pay yourself a little more to cover design time and so forth.
   I hope I have been helpfull.
   Sincerely.
   L. Siders