3 Big Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Handyperson
From managing sorority properties at WSU and UW to owning my own home and rental property, I’ve worked with many vendors over the years. I’ll be the first to admit I’m not the handiest person, but that’s why I’m so intentional about finding and vetting the best talent to take care of my properties.
Along the way, I’ve noticed some major red flags when working with new vendors—things that are an instant turn-off. These are things you will never have to deal with when working with the handy folks at Hire Possibilities.
1. Pestering Phone Calls
I used to love Angie’s List when it allowed me to connect directly with contractors who had great reviews. Have you used Angi lately? Total difference.
Now, the moment you submit a project request, you’re hit with a flood of phone calls you never asked for, and if you don’t respond, they won’t stop calling.
Maybe it’s because I’m a Millennial, but unless it’s someone I want to talk to, I don’t have time for phone calls—especially if I’m not the one who made the request.
And here’s the kicker: the companies that use this tactic are often the most expensive. So not only do they blow up your phone, but they also charge more for the privilege.
At Hire Possibilities, we’ll absolutely call you back if we ever miss you, but you won’t be stuck dodging relentless calls just for reaching out.
2. Condescension and Being Talked Down To
When I had my daughter, I decided to use cloth diapers—not the kind with a laundry service, but the kind you wash yourself.
After months of dirty diapers and the chaos of newborn life, our washing machine died. I needed a fix fast, so I called a same-day appliance repair service.
When the tech arrived, I explained the issue. He fixed it, then walked right past me and asked my husband, “Who does the laundry in this house?” My husband pointed at me, and the repairman told him, “Well, you need to tell her to stop washing baby clothes in there—that’s the whole problem.”
First of all, I hired and paid him—he should have been speaking directly to me.
Second, he was wrong—you can wash baby clothes in a washing machine, though a mesh bag for socks doesn’t hurt.
Needless to say, I handed him his check, and he was quickly and mercifully shown the door before I had the chance to respond.
At Hire Possibilities, we do things differently. We talk to the person who hired us. We respect our customers’ knowledge. We offer help, not condescension.
Women shouldn’t have to deal with this nonsense when hiring someone for home repairs.
3. Surprise Rate Increases
Emergencies happen. When you’re in a bind, you just want the job done—even if it means paying a little extra. I get it.
But I’ve noticed a pattern: women, especially older women, often end up overpaying because they hesitate to ask questions.
I’ve seen it firsthand with the House Directors at the sororities I managed. They would get a repair quote, then end up paying way more than expected simply because they weren’t comfortable pushing back.
At Hire Possibilities, we never put you in that position.
We’re upfront about costs, so you’ll know the price before we start. If anything unexpected comes up, we tell you first. You can always say no. There are no sneaky fees or pressure tactics.
We do have a one-hour minimum, but that’s it. If you change your mind after we assess the issue, you won’t be stuck with hidden charges.
We actually encourage questions because we want you to feel empowered, not taken advantage of.
Let Us Do the Vetting for You
If you’re tired of dealing with pushy, overpriced, or condescending contractors, let us help.
At Hire Possibilities, we carefully vet, train, and background-check every handyperson, so you can feel confident knowing the work will be done right without any of the usual hassle.
Serving the Seattle metropolitan area.
Call or text: 206-659-1298
Email: carolyn@hirepossibilitiesseattle.com
Learn from my mistakes, and let’s get your home taken care of without the stress.