Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hello!

I'm new here and also new to the idea of starting my own business. My plant closed recently and I need to get on with a new direction. I'm 52 and not sure which way to go. I had thoughts of starting a handy man type business, but lately, I've also thought about some equipment that I already own...A farm tractor with some implements. I wondered about "playing-off" of the investments that I've already made. But I would need to buy a 1 ton dump truck and trailer. I thought that I could find work opportunities with this equipment. Landscaping, scrap hauling, light farming/garden installation, etc. I'd haul  or do whatever I need to to stay busy. But I'm not sure about making the  20-30k investment in a truck and trailer. With rumors of $5+ fuel prices on the horizon, a down housing market, and people's general reluctance to spend, I wonder if my business could be profitable. Any advice out there?

Considering your age, you need to probably keep the 20-30k you have safe some where. I'd go with the handy man business. Give free estimates, and try and beat competitors as best as possible. Possibly try and find a partner/ friend that you know that would want to splt the risk with you.