Looking to go self employed

[Starky]

Hi All,

I need some advice please. I’ve been working in the social housing sector for 10 years now and would really like to start my own business as self employed plumber/engineer. This has been on my mind for a while now.

I’ve been doing a fair bit of private work, In the hope of building up a client base. I plan on joing check a trade, handing out leaflets approaching estate agents etc.

I know a lot of you guys are established and would appreciate any advice on all matters of being self employed.

My most amediate dilemma is whether to buy my van or go down the hire purchase route and which would have the best tax breaks.

Any help greatly appreciated.

 

[rpm]

Wouldn`t bother with the likes of check a trade and estate agents is a road to frustration imho. Start with a van you can afford outright to keep overheads to a minimum.

 

[Starky]

Hi rpm,

What route would say is best to generate work?
I’ve heard good things about check a trade from friends, have you had bad experiences with sites like that?

My thoughts on a van is to possibly hire purchase, to keep as much money in the bank as possible, I’ve budgeted about 10k to get the business of the floor but this would include a van.

 

[rpm]

Use check a trade to see how many plumbers in your area & the system can be managed to show high scores.
Local church mags and age aid can help but can be frustrating.
Hire purchase means a regular outgoing committment. You sure about that?
Use the little search box in top right corner, it's all been covered before.

 

[marvoni]

I've known a few guys who are excellent experienced tradesmen who've not done well after going self employed. My advice would be to go on a business course because making money with a small business has very little to do with how competent you are at your trade.