Before hiring a handyperson, it's important to ask several questions to ensure they are the right fit for the job. Key areas to cover include their experience, logistics, and job specifics.

Experience and Qualifications:

• What kind of work do you specialize in?

• How long have you been doing this kind of work?

• Are you licensed and insured?

• Do you have references?

• Can you provide before-and-after photos of your work?

Estimates and Contracts:

• Do you charge for estimates?

• Will you provide a written estimate and contract?

• Does the estimate cover both labor and materials?

• How much do you expect materials to cost?

Project Details and Guarantees:

• When can you start the job, and how long do you expect it to take?

• Do you provide a guarantee for your work?

• Will you handle cleanup and waste disposal after the job is finished?

• Do you have any questions about the projects on my list?

A contractor specializes in a specific field. They often operate in teams where they have subcontractors to handle specialized problems. So if you have significant plumbing, drywall, or roofing issues, you’ll want to hire a contractor, as the job may require a team.

A handyperson is typically one person who works on whatever jobs come their way. You wouldn’t call a contractor to fix the hinges on cabinets or paint your room. Instead, a handyperson can handle all these issues, saving you from making multiple phone calls.

Yes, many repair services include blade sharpening as part of the maintenance package.

Whether a scullery is worth it depends on how much you like to cook and entertain. If you frequently host gatherings—a scullery is likely worth the money. If you’re looking for ROI, it’s not so clear. It may not add significant value to your home, as it doesn’t increase square footage and may repurpose space that a buyer would have preferred to remain as-is (like a laundry room).