The Grass Doctor

Does anyone have tips for starting up a teen lawn mowing business?

I'm going to start lawn mowing people's lawns in my neighborhood. I need some advice on starting up. I need to know advertising, charging, lawn mowing techniques, etc.

Public Comments

1. Invest in business cards initially, they are cheap on line and fliers people will toss in general. Start by talking to your neighbors...introducing yourself and your goal to start a business. Hand them a business card with a firm handshake. Those that aren't home....leave a card in the door jam. Canvas your neighborhood. You WILL get call backs. Charging: call a few local lawn services and inquire about their rates based on the size of your parents lawn. take a 10% discount off their charge and this is your "introductory rate" for new customers. An introductory rate may or may not be raised at a later time....you have to decide what the market will bear as far as making that increase or not. Also, try offering a 5% discount to those who pay for a months service in advance...this allows for setting up you schedule and to plan business expenses (mower maintenance, gas, etc.). Charge additional charge for weeding and debris removal. As far as mowing techniques, try to schedule most clients in the early to mid-day time frame or the evening (you don't want to be mowing during the heat of the day if possible). Invest in a mower that bags to eliminate the extra task of raking and "sweeping" up the clippings. Mow in straight horizontal pattern with a 1/3 overlap on the previous "row." Gives lawn a very neat tailored look.
2. Hey Big Ten Ty--A neighbor hood business does not require a lot of PR work. You live in the neighbor hood and already are known by family reputation. Knock on doors and try to get them to cut every two weeks and get 20 yards to do. Start immediately to cut grass--get paid--and have your family advance you the equipment. If you do not like summer heat and you have a weak back --get a job at a gas sstation.
3. I am starting a lawn mowing business. As far as advertising goes, I would drop a flyer of your business in people's mailboxes. I would choose a mulching lawnmower because rahing/ blowing is not required and you don't have to push around a heavy bag of grass. When mowing a lawn, you don't want to cut it too low because the effect will be tan grass! Mow in a different pattern every time you the grass doesn't start curving to one side.I would charge $5.00 - $30.00 for each lawn depending on the size. I would recommend getting a self- propelled mower because the engine powers the wheels and the blade.