There are always a few things around the house that we never get around to fixing.
Maybe it’s hanging up some shelves or even just putting together that furniture that’s been sitting in the box since you bought it. There’s always something that needs doing, but we don’t always have the time or skills to do it. That’s where James and Laura Young come in!
Up until recently, James Young worked in a warehouse northwest of London, England before coming home to his wife and three kids. At home, Laura relies on James to fix and do just about anything that needs doing. James was diagnosed with autism four years ago, and Laura thinks this condition explains why he’s so good at understanding how things work so easily.
“He’s really good at building things and doesn’t bother with the instructions,” Laura explained. “James doesn’t come from a trade background but his grandad was a nuclear engineer, and they think he was also on the spectrum. He’s got a very methodical mind and can think outside the box. He sees things differently.”
One day, Laura was listening to a podcast about a man who earns his living by putting together furniture for people. It sparked an idea: What if she hired out James to help people with all those little odds and ends we never get around to doing?
The resourceful wife turned to Facebook and Nextdoor, advertising a handyman business she called Rent My Handy Husband. They started getting calls right away, and before long, word spread about the great work James does. His rates start at about $45 per hour, and he’s already booked through November!
Some of the duties James does for people include installing curtains, mounting televisions, painting, decorating, carpet laying, tiling, and other DIY projects. Laura handles the business’ social media pages and bookings, and James travels up to 150 miles for work. James was even able to quit his job to focus on his handiwork full-time!
Since the couple understands what it means to struggle, especially having two children on the autism spectrum along with James, they offer discounts to people who need them. Anyone over 65 years old, NHS and emergency services personnel, disabled people, caregivers, and other helpers are given a discounted rate.
“We know what it’s like to be parents of children with special needs,” she said. “We’ve known what it’s like to struggle for money or have to save.”
This holiday season, James will even come install Christmas lights for people. This family has found a niche market that provides such a helpful service to their community.
We wish this family nothing but success with their business!
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