The FIRST thing you need to do is commit to being as honest, dedicated, & thorough as Curtis is before you even think about starting your own business. And don't forget how important it is to have a partner (his wife) that is as committed supportive & helpful as she is.
Here...here! There's NOTHING more positive in a man's life than a GOOD, SUPPORTIVE partner. When the day is done and before it starts, having that special person that has your back, is without parallel. Integrity comes, when you DO the things that build upon your integrity. Being a selfish, lying, cheating human ALWAYS comes back to bite you in the back pockets both financially and emotionally if you have an ounce of self worth and a conscious. Great advice Curtis all around. God bless you, your wife and your business. It's HARD to have sustainable career in HVAC. Believe me, I KNOW! Keep up the great work and videos!
20 years now one man show, I do one job at a time, one call at a time, never over book myself, show up on time! It doesn't matter if they call someone else. The first couple of years it can be tough. Keep it simple, low overhead, I use an online estimating and invoicing software, no file cabinet needed, turbo tax= no accountant needed. GOOD LUCK DONT GIVE UP
'''WISE WORDS OF WISDOM MY SOUTH GEORGIA FRIEND,,,FROM A OLD 80 YEARS OLD FART IN UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA,,,,80 YEARS OLD AND WORKING EVERYDAY IN HVAC,,,LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF IT,,,,
The best HVAC channel on UA-cam. I’m currently a student with no experience so watching your videos helps me apply the things I’m learning in class to the field. It feels like I’m your apprentice every time I watch a video.
After 28 years in the field - I lost my job. Have spent my savings to get thru the winter. Have an 02 truck and going to give it a shot. I live in a decent area as far as construction. So I’m going to try to start with that. I am familiar with accounting software and some startup tasks but that’s about it. I think most of the game is keep to hustling and always be networking. Here goes……….
You seem like a honest and trustworthy guy that does quality work. If you were anywhere near me I’d definitely use your company those qualities are hard to find in this day and age.
I’m just starting out on my own, I’ve been blessed to work for a good company while I did work on the side away from my employer’s clientele. I sometimes gave my employer some of my own clients when I couldn’t handle the work. My advice to techs is to pass business cards around when you’re out shopping and to neighbors and friends to built that client base. Only a matter of time before you get flooded with work. Then the choice is yours to do that as side work or be your own boss.
Great update as a former business owner you were spot on. Nothing comes easy in life if you're not willing to sacrifice to get there. Congrats on making it 👏
Great advise Curtis! I've lost count of the techs I've heard bitching that the company owner is making so much money. They fail to understand the years of hard work, investment, risk and headaches that come with it. Seems that many people are of the mindset that you wave a magic wand, the company appears, and the phone starts ringing off the hook and you spend your free time jumping around in a pile of cash. Everybody wants it but few want to work for it. Best wishes for continued success!
That's right.. neither, techs or customers, never hear about overhead. " Hey, they sell this capacitor for 10 on Amazon! 200? Wtf?" - pretty common to hear.
I do everything with me and my woman small business is tough and having a good person by your side is key understanding someone willing to work with you not against you.
Thanks a lot for this video, I have 16 years as HVAC mechanic and technician and want to get my contractor license,thanks for sharing your experience. I respect you as technician and teacher but now I have a lot of respect for you as a person. Blessings
I have commented on your other video, but you remind me so much of my husband and I 30 years ago when we (he) started his hvac business. He put his Pittsburgh machine and breakers in his garage and spent many nights in there making duct work. His has a big shed so all his overflow stock went in there. I answered the phone for the business and got very good at diagnosing problems from clients explanations of their problems. I read a book called Sell Yourself; I can’t remember the author’s name, but he was a car salesman (hahah). He gave great tips on how to conjure up business. For instead, he said when you leave a tip in a restaurant leave a business card with it. We got quite a few customers doing that. Even if they throw your card away, it’s possible someone else will see it in the trash. If you are a baseball game or such and people are throwing confetti, throw your business cards. You are right about being honest; our business grew mostly by word of mouth. We had a child who a chronic illness and all three of our kids were in private school. So we needed the extra income. Hubby would work his full time job all day then work his business after that. Sometimes he wouldn’t come home until after midnight, get a few hours of sleep, get up and do it all again. We charged the going rate of $30 to come out and check things. LOL. When you said it could be up in the hundreds, my, things sure have changed. I enjoy watching your videos….it brings back a lot of memories for us. Hubby decided to close down after our daughter passed and that was about the time when solid state boards and computer parts were being used and he just didn’t want to learn how to do all that. We had no more medical bills and I homeschooled one child so we were doing okay again financially.
Hello Curtis, I want to say Howdy from Western Canada. I am sitting here watching your video and doing some work on my business. I am an HVAC Technician who started in the trade a few years ago, with a goal I wanted to work for myself. So here i sit 3 years after i made that goal I found myself working my fulltime job thinking to myself is now the right time to take a step and try to open my business. i am still working my full time job and working on advertising my business on the side to get a small customer base to hopefuly allow me to quit my fulltime job to focus on my business. I too have my wife by my side for support. Thank you for making this video because when i heard you say "if you cant go a day without thinking about it, you will kick yourself if you dont try" it accelerated my thinking to pull the trigger on the plan i have been thinking about since i started. Thank you i love your videos
Curtis, I am you, my friend. 5 years ago, I started my business .This video is on the spot. Everything you said is true. Love the videos. I need to work on my HVAC channel but I have other stuff that is more important right now.
Wow my story is similar. Morality and hard work. I'm still transitioning away from another company at 17 years as an hvac mechanic. I love it, but it's hard to gauge when to quit my job and concentrate on my own company. I learned a lot from this video about employees and approaching rental customers.
You sound exactly where I'm at right now. It's quite encouraging for me to hear your story since I'm going to start a business doing HVAC on my own. not quite sure of my time frame right now. I just know I need my own thing away from corporate America.
Great video! Thanks for your knowledge and encouragement. Going from state government work to hvac technician and i am trying to work towards what you've done.
You and your wife have done a real service to your family and community. You were able to take a negative situation and see the opportunity and take action. I have commented before that I am not into hvac, I am a computer programmer. But the principles and values you hold apply to other businesses and professions. I also really liked your statement about how you do not need to know everything. I guess it is our education system that teaches people the opposite wrong headed thought that you do. In grade school, high school, college...you get bad grades if you don't. But what they are missing is that everything changes...the technology, the world. A wise person knows that they have to crack open a manual or think thru the schematics. You are right on.
Really humble of you to take the time to put a video for ppl that are contemplating on opening a business for themself. It’s definitely easier to start a business then sustain it, but Sky is the limit! God bless
Outstanding information!! I worked for an 100 >Billion privately own company, and guess what they payed YOU 10% of your wages to come to worked every day! IF you called in sick> you forfeited 10% of that days wages! Amazing what is happening in our country today (things are not the same, values are not the same, work ethnic not the same) THOSE who don't know how work< for those that do!>>>YOU know HOW>>>WORK for YOURSELF!
I'm exactly what you described in your video Curtis. I don't go a day without thinking about it. I'm currently sitting in front of the computer looking up the info for the test. Great video and advice! 👍👍🇺🇲🇺🇲
A lot of great info here Curtis! Strong emphasis on working hard. I can tell this is a field where you really have to have some passion for because it's hard. I'm grateful my property manager keeps your business. I'm not sure I could trust anyone else!
Can I just say your words were very inspiring. Seeing what you have done with your business just let’s you know that being honest, trusting hard working and believing in yourself really pays off! Thank you and keep doing what do.
You said everything that I went through starting my business after working for the other guy several years. I was into Automotive but all the principals are the same when starting a business. Me and you are on the same page in making decisions. I enjoy all of your content as when I was retiring I saw the You Tube coming alive and helping out with the bottom line. Keep up the great work and hope your health holds up as that is what happened to me making me retire early but I could not have done it without honest work ethic.
I had a Business for 2.5 yrs doing mostly new construction but my downfall was not building and promoting my service side .... The new construction side is so competitive and doing all the billing and Manual J's,D'S and S's then Quotes etc .... It just became to much to keep up with . I commend you for your efforts ... I now work at a Local Supply House JOHNSTONE SUPPLY and I Luv it but I miss the field ... Goodluck P.S I've had so many materials stolen and tools it sucks that it really hurts your business and your trust 🙏🏻🙏🏻
I think this is the best video you’ve ever made, I can speak to every aspect that Curtis is talking about, truth and honesty will always prevail, thank you for this video. One rule that I run my company is cost minimization equals profit maximization. Be humble and persistent. 🇨🇦
Great video Curtis. I’m a one-man operation in the Midwest and I love it. Lots of good points in this video. You’re a great tech you definitely deserve all the success that you have
Great story, I've been a business owner too, auto repair. Honesty, friendliness, and customer satisfaction is key to running a business. Keep the videos coming, and I'll keep watching. Enjoy your day.
My favorite youtuber on the platform. I'm a 22 year old from upstate SC and I've been in the trade for a little over two years and I'm looking into starting my own business here soon. Your video has helped me a lot Curtis, thank you
Yes sir, saving your money is they key in this hvac business. For 28 years that's how it has been for me. You have to save for winter. From the month of April all the way to the end of September early October. Usually right after Thanksgiving I am at home with no work coming in. Til next April. Now I just want to sub contract here in Atlanta.
Nice video Curtis. I’ve been doing this 38 yrs. Good days bad days. You gave great advise, when I started I was told “Your a FOOL it won’t work” I said “ it not I’ll just have to get a job”. I got the grinder tool free nuts you showed us, work great. Thanks
Always thank you so much for your videos please do more follow up on this topic. This type of video encourages technician like myself to looking into futures and opening your own business. I learn a lot by watching your videos thank you so much and please keep up the good work.
Thank you for the insight Curtis. My business goes live in march after 12 years in the trade and I'm ready to make the leap! I'd love to hear more about your work order system and book keeping, thanks again for the great content on your channel.
Wave is free. Not as convenient as QuickBooks, but free. That's what I started with as I didn't have much capital and was trying tot save every dollar. Decent tool , but takes some time to get comfortable with. Matter of fact, - still using it for my accounting.
I love ya Curtis. You tell it like it is. If you decide to start your own business you have to do everything it takes to make it work. You grow tremendously as a person as success comes and you feel great about yourself!
Thanks for the advice. I work for NY transit. Good pension job but I do ductless mini installs whenever I get them and starting to do a few service calls on central. I have Epa 608. This is something I would like to do upon retirement. Not major change outs and so on but minor service calls Just to make a few $$ on the side.
Sir this is like a message to me because I’m about to start my company as a self employee and I have a lot a questions and fears but your video gave me a lot confidence and for some reason today I’ve been thinking about it and after seeing your video I think I’m ready to do it thank you so much keep posting video like this one please really helpful
Excellent video. Couldn't have come at a better time. I'm so excited about starting my company. I am not going to quit my full-time job as an engineer at the hospital. My hope is to transition over full-time within a year or two. I am totally okay with it taking a while. I have a lot to learn. Right now I am learning the financial aspect of it all. I'm learning the profit and loss statement and how to calculate my gross margin percentage and all that stuff. Super excited about this.
Always thought I'm nuts. But, man , bro... Starting with Xterra beats me by much. Especially takiing it this far ...love and proud to have ppl(techs) just like you are around... Quality work should be paid for - out of question
I appreciate the video and words of encouragement me and wife have recently started our business and it has been tough but fun at the same time. My biggest challenge is making time for my family and knowing when to call it a day.
Everything you mentioned is why I didn't go into my own business. My family is more important and being with them was a must. I worked my ass off, self trained myself and moved from company to company till I found a job that I enjoyed doing and paid well and of course good benefits....Not like this everywhere in the country, but for me this was the best and I totally understand what you went thru to get where you are now.....
I started the same way in 06... took off 6 days the first year and a half.... every penny went into the business.... ps love your hat!!! Keep the videos coming!!
Could you make some videos on keeping your over head low, or some of the other "Business Owner" lessons. Love your vids Im a young service tech rn based out of florida thank you very much.
Outstanding video. I think there is alot of opportunity for honest technicians in todays market. Cudtomers are getting tired of these corporate sales technicians.
Really good video Curtis !! I am a service tech , 16 years experience started tin knocking did that for 8 yrs and now service last 8 some light commercial but mostly residential. I have gone back and forth about starting my own thing ?? But as you stated I am well aware that it’s a 24/7 365 commitment! Finding jobs doing those jobs and then having next job lined up ! I applaud you and your wife ! Look forward to more videos !
This video is greatly appreciated and something that is not taught in school. Well, not the one I’m attending anyway. I’m wanting to get into the HVAC industry, but finding people to spend time with has been a little harder than expected. I get it….businesses don’t want you cutting into their profits. But it’s seems like every conversation I’ve had with them always starts with them saying that they were taught by someone. Oh the irony.
When it comes time to retire, you might find it difficult. I did HVAC/Refrigeration service for years and had to quit for health reasons. I still do some light residential service work for family and friends because I still love doing it.
Thank you so much for this great info , I am going into Business in June I’ve been working for a family oil co for over 30 yrs . Time for me to do my own thing thank you so much for the info
great advice im in ohio and been wanting to start my own hvac company for a while, can you do a video detailing whats the first steps in starting a business from just side work to scale and LLC, business insurance, ein number im very new to all this thanks!
Great video. Lots of good information for anyone thinking about going into business for themselves. I hope you put out more videos about the "business" side of the business!
You should NOT be sending out invoices to customers, you should collect on the job, now property management may require invoicing, but otherwise you should collect on every job - do NOT wait for the mailman to bring you your money.
I’m planning on starting my own business within the next 12 months. I’m gathering books to take my license exam and plan to take the exam before February. I’ve worked for more than my share of companies. I think a lot of young companies and old companies alike make a huge mistakeby focusing and trying to sell based on price. Once you make your customers aware of the value of doing business with you, price will matter less and less.
Great video sir. I have a question for you. If you could go back to the day you set everything out and decided to create your business, what is the number one thing you wish you could’ve told yourself?
God bless you. This has weighed on my mind for many years and I've been told over and over of why I shouldn't or can't. My old boss said something that's stuck in my mind. He said "when a man gets to my age and looks back on his life, he doesn't regret the things he did as much as the things he DIDN'T do." I recently lost my job and I took it as a sign from God to get to it. In three weeks I've built up a decent about of capital and now I'm ready make it happen. First question; do I hire an attorney to set up my business or accountant or tax specialist?
This gentleman is giving truly helpful advice to anyone looking to jump into business for themselves! Thank you sir. I sincerely wish the best for you in your future endeavors.
I’m in the process of reading and studying for my license test, I just don’t like working under people. I love the feeling of being my own boss. Yes it’s stressful and hard work but so is working under company’s that will just hire anyone. I know I was meant to own some type of Business and thats why I watched this alot
Love your stuff. I don't know if I'll ever be a business owner myself. I see what the stress does to very hard working techs. But I do want that mechanical license. And I want that coveted NATE badge. Got my ICE stuff. Got a few years of experience. And now I'm trying my hand at chillers. Honey I shrunk the tech. There is no end to what you can do and learn in HVAC. It's really a skill for people that need constant challenges. Good luck to all fellow techs! You truly keep the world running.
In Teeenty years you will be bothered more about what you should have done than what you tried and failed at, knowing you gave it a shot is a peace, that those who never tried and regret it will never know. Former business owner who spent twenty years doing what he loved, I am extremely pleased with life.
I appreciate that. Sounds good. I started a hvac company 14 months ago. I got my contractors license recently. I have work coming in but I am lost on what to do from there. I have a business checking account. I'm taking in checks. But I am lost on what kind of books I should be keeping. Taxes. I have no idea what I'm doing. Thank you
Curtis very inspirational video and great words of encouragement may God keep blessing your Business, you, your wife, your family and anyone you meet everyday, keep the videos coming please
Employees are expensive due to the Government requirements such as work comp and payroll taxes. Very few realize that employers have to pay the Government the same payroll taxes that the employee has deducted from their paycheck. Then, you add them to your auto insurance and watch the premiums go up. There is a sweetspot in how many employees you can have and the numbers generate a higher gross than what they cost. Running a business is expensive, no doubts about that. Having an office person is probably the most important of all, someone to take the calls, do paperwork, order supplies and schedule jobs. That allows the tech the time to do their physical work and be efficient.
Thank you so much, I want to so bad, I’m nervous about it, but man I think I could do it, and at a very high quality standard. Thanks for the encouragement!!!!
I was in new construction for about 35 years with my own business, mainly framing houses and built some to sell, loved the work hated fighting employees, big turnover of help. Got behind in payroll taxes and IRS seized my bank account two times, that just about put me out of business. Had to sell my house to get caught up. Was good until 2008 and had to retire
So inspiring! I am blessed by God because I am just an apprentice at 54yrs and after 30+ companies denied me an opportunity. I met my boss through a tech that came to work on my apt. And he is retiring just when I test for license. If I pass he is passing his client list to me with a % back to him and staying as my paid consultant. And my wife ran a medical billing office and now wants to office support me when I get licensed. She actually wants to be on-site with me. Going after your dreams is exactly right.
The FIRST thing you need to do is commit to being as honest, dedicated, & thorough as Curtis is before you even think about starting your own business. And don't forget how important it is to have a partner (his wife) that is as committed supportive & helpful as she is.
We both appreciate that. Very thoughtful of you.
Here...here! There's NOTHING more positive in a man's life than a GOOD, SUPPORTIVE partner. When the day is done and before it starts, having that special person that has your back, is without parallel. Integrity comes, when you DO the things that build upon your integrity. Being a selfish, lying, cheating human ALWAYS comes back to bite you in the back pockets both financially and emotionally if you have an ounce of self worth and a conscious. Great advice Curtis all around. God bless you, your wife and your business. It's HARD to have sustainable career in HVAC. Believe me, I KNOW! Keep up the great work and videos!
Absolutely spectacular. TX mechanical contractor here and extremely happy to see/hear other honest business owners in the same field.
@@OGHVAC Great Comment Trey!
20 years now one man show, I do one job at a time, one call at a time, never over book myself, show up on time! It doesn't matter if they call someone else. The first couple of years it can be tough. Keep it simple, low overhead, I use an online estimating and invoicing software, no file cabinet needed, turbo tax= no accountant needed. GOOD LUCK DONT GIVE UP
'''WISE WORDS OF WISDOM MY SOUTH GEORGIA FRIEND,,,FROM A OLD 80 YEARS OLD FART IN UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA,,,,80 YEARS OLD AND WORKING EVERYDAY IN HVAC,,,LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF IT,,,,
Good job wifey! I started my own hvac business 32 years ago and ... same.
The best HVAC channel on UA-cam. I’m currently a student with no experience so watching your videos helps me apply the things I’m learning in class to the field. It feels like I’m your apprentice every time I watch a video.
Thanks
After 28 years in the field - I lost my job.
Have spent my savings to get thru the winter. Have an 02 truck and going to give it a shot. I live in a decent area as far as construction. So I’m going to try to start with that.
I am familiar with accounting software and some startup tasks but that’s about it.
I think most of the game is keep to hustling and always be networking. Here goes……….
You seem like a honest and trustworthy guy that does quality work. If you were anywhere near me I’d definitely use your company those qualities are hard to find in this day and age.
As good as you are at HVAC, I think you’ve missed your calling. That was inspiring. I’ve already watched it 3 times.
I’m glad you’ve gotten something out of it. 🙏
I’m just starting out on my own, I’ve been blessed to work for a good company while I did work on the side away from my employer’s clientele. I sometimes gave my employer some of my own clients when I couldn’t handle the work. My advice to techs is to pass business cards around when you’re out shopping and to neighbors and friends to built that client base. Only a matter of time before you get flooded with work. Then the choice is yours to do that as side work or be your own boss.
My favorite quote is “The difference between winners and losers is the winners DO IT” “they just Do It”
Great advice and video.
rite on curtus u r a good man i started as a plumber 40yrs ago now retired the 2 kids run the show now keep up the good work
Great update as a former business owner you were spot on. Nothing comes easy in life if you're not willing to sacrifice to get there. Congrats on making it 👏
Great advise Curtis! I've lost count of the techs I've heard bitching that the company owner is making so much money. They fail to understand the years of hard work, investment, risk and headaches that come with it. Seems that many people are of the mindset that you wave a magic wand, the company appears, and the phone starts ringing off the hook and you spend your free time jumping around in a pile of cash. Everybody wants it but few want to work for it. Best wishes for continued success!
That's right.. neither, techs or customers, never hear about overhead. " Hey, they sell this capacitor for 10 on Amazon! 200? Wtf?" - pretty common to hear.
@@vitoplower1119 Amazon is poor choice and a 30$ cap MARS sells for 90$
I like all the information you gave here. As a 10 year guy thinking it’s time to break out on my own, you gave me a lot to think about.
I do everything with me and my woman small business is tough and having a good person by your side is key understanding someone willing to work with you not against you.
Thanks a lot for this video, I have 16 years as HVAC mechanic and technician and want to get my contractor license,thanks for sharing your experience. I respect you as technician and teacher but now I have a lot of respect for you as a person. Blessings
I have commented on your other video, but you remind me so much of my husband and I 30 years ago when we (he) started his hvac business. He put his Pittsburgh machine and breakers in his garage and spent many nights in there making duct work. His has a big shed so all his overflow stock went in there. I answered the phone for the business and got very good at diagnosing problems from clients explanations of their problems. I read a book called Sell Yourself; I can’t remember the author’s name, but he was a car salesman (hahah). He gave great tips on how to conjure up business. For instead, he said when you leave a tip in a restaurant leave a business card with it. We got quite a few customers doing that. Even if they throw your card away, it’s possible someone else will see it in the trash. If you are a baseball game or such and people are throwing confetti, throw your business cards. You are right about being honest; our business grew mostly by word of mouth. We had a child who a chronic illness and all three of our kids were in private school. So we needed the extra income. Hubby would work his full time job all day then work his business after that. Sometimes he wouldn’t come home until after midnight, get a few hours of sleep, get up and do it all again. We charged the going rate of $30 to come out and check things. LOL. When you said it could be up in the hundreds, my, things sure have changed. I enjoy watching your videos….it brings back a lot of memories for us. Hubby decided to close down after our daughter passed and that was about the time when solid state boards and computer parts were being used and he just didn’t want to learn how to do all that. We had no more medical bills and I homeschooled one child so we were doing okay again financially.
Hello Curtis,
I want to say Howdy from Western Canada. I am sitting here watching your video and doing some work on my business. I am an HVAC Technician who started in the trade a few years ago, with a goal I wanted to work for myself. So here i sit 3 years after i made that goal I found myself working my fulltime job thinking to myself is now the right time to take a step and try to open my business. i am still working my full time job and working on advertising my business on the side to get a small customer base to hopefuly allow me to quit my fulltime job to focus on my business. I too have my wife by my side for support. Thank you for making this video because when i heard you say "if you cant go a day without thinking about it, you will kick yourself if you dont try" it accelerated my thinking to pull the trigger on the plan i have been thinking about since i started. Thank you i love your videos
Good to hear from a Pro on how it's done.
Curtis, I am you, my friend. 5 years ago, I started my business .This video is on the spot. Everything you said is true. Love the videos. I need to work on my HVAC channel but I have other stuff that is more important right now.
Wow my story is similar. Morality and hard work. I'm still transitioning away from another company at 17 years as an hvac mechanic. I love it, but it's hard to gauge when to quit my job and concentrate on my own company. I learned a lot from this video about employees and approaching rental customers.
You sound exactly where I'm at right now. It's quite encouraging for me to hear your story since I'm going to start a business doing HVAC on my own.
not quite sure of my time frame right now. I just know I need my own thing away from corporate America.
Great video! Thanks for your knowledge and encouragement. Going from state government work to hvac technician and i am trying to work towards what you've done.
Have been doing all of that for 27 years now 7 days a week it’s tough keep it going
I would love it if you make more of these types of videos about starting and running an HVAC Business.
You and your wife have done a real service to your family and community. You were able to take a negative situation and see the opportunity and take action.
I have commented before that I am not into hvac, I am a computer programmer. But the principles and values you hold apply to other businesses and professions.
I also really liked your statement about how you do not need to know everything. I guess it is our education system that teaches people the opposite wrong headed thought that you do. In grade school, high school, college...you get bad grades if you don't. But what they are missing is that everything changes...the technology, the world. A wise person knows that they have to crack open a manual or think thru the schematics. You are right on.
Couldn't of said it any better. Good words. Thanks for a couple of reminders that I needed to hear.
Really humble of you to take the time to put a video for ppl that are contemplating on opening a business for themself. It’s definitely easier to start a business then sustain it, but Sky is the limit! God bless
Outstanding information!! I worked for an 100 >Billion privately own company, and guess what they payed YOU 10% of your wages to come to worked every day! IF you called in sick> you forfeited 10% of that days wages! Amazing what is happening in our country today (things are not the same, values are not the same, work ethnic not the same) THOSE who don't know how work< for those that do!>>>YOU know HOW>>>WORK for YOURSELF!
Curtis you are truly an inspiration!!I follow you religiously and appreciate how you conduct business from day to day.God bless you and yours
I'm exactly what you described in your video Curtis. I don't go a day without thinking about it. I'm currently sitting in front of the computer looking up the info for the test. Great video and advice! 👍👍🇺🇲🇺🇲
A lot of great info here Curtis! Strong emphasis on working hard. I can tell this is a field where you really have to have some passion for because it's hard. I'm grateful my property manager keeps your business. I'm not sure I could trust anyone else!
I usually don’t comment but I always watch videos and your a big inspiration Frfr I try to watch every video and learn to become like a tech like you
Can I just say your words were very inspiring. Seeing what you have done with your business just let’s you know that being honest, trusting hard working and believing in yourself really pays off! Thank you and keep doing what do.
Very well said. Honesty can get you a whole lot further than dishonesty in life.
You said everything that I went through starting my business after working for the other guy several years. I was into Automotive but all the principals are the same when starting a business. Me and you are on the same page in making decisions. I enjoy all of your content as when I was retiring I saw the You Tube coming alive and helping out with the bottom line. Keep up the great work and hope your health holds up as that is what happened to me making me retire early but I could not have done it without honest work ethic.
You impressed Mr when you say don't need know everything lot of tech out there thinking they are gurus hvac
I had a Business for 2.5 yrs doing mostly new construction but my downfall was not building and promoting my service side .... The new construction side is so competitive and doing all the billing and Manual J's,D'S and S's then Quotes etc .... It just became to much to keep up with . I commend you for your efforts ... I now work at a Local Supply House JOHNSTONE SUPPLY and I Luv it but I miss the field ... Goodluck P.S I've had so many materials stolen and tools it sucks that it really hurts your business and your trust 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thanks Curtis, I've just started my own hvac business as well....I needed this video
I think this is the best video you’ve ever made, I can speak to every aspect that Curtis is talking about, truth and honesty will always prevail, thank you for this video. One rule that I run my company is cost minimization equals profit maximization. Be humble and persistent. 🇨🇦
Thanks
Great video Curtis. I’m a one-man operation in the Midwest and I love it. Lots of good points in this video. You’re a great tech you definitely deserve all the success that you have
I appreciate that!
Thanks very inspiring I am a sole propiter plumbing Contractor. Been doing it a while, good advice thanks.
Great story, I've been a business owner too, auto repair. Honesty, friendliness, and customer satisfaction is key to running a business. Keep the videos coming, and I'll keep watching. Enjoy your day.
Great advice.Getting big does not mean you can make more money.Take it from someone that been there.
Honestly going to rewatch this video many times Please make it into a series.
My favorite youtuber on the platform. I'm a 22 year old from upstate SC and I've been in the trade for a little over two years and I'm looking into starting my own business here soon. Your video has helped me a lot Curtis, thank you
Thank you so much for sharing
My wife and I also started our business with not much,still there now but it’s getting better.
it takes a level of motivation and drive most people don’t have. Keep at it.
Yes sir, saving your money is they key in this hvac business. For 28 years that's how it has been for me. You have to save for winter. From the month of April all the way to the end of September early October. Usually right after Thanksgiving I am at home with no work coming in. Til next April. Now I just want to sub contract here in Atlanta.
Nice video Curtis. I’ve been doing this 38 yrs. Good days bad days. You gave great advise, when I started I was told “Your a FOOL it won’t work” I said “ it not I’ll just have to get a job”. I got the grinder tool free nuts you showed us, work great. Thanks
Curtis 😃👍 good info for the new bees
HARD SMART work can be done ✔️
Always thank you so much for your videos please do more follow up on this topic. This type of video encourages technician like myself to looking into futures and opening your own business. I learn a lot by watching your videos thank you so much and please keep up the good work.
VERY GOOD SOUND ADVICE! HONESTY AND INTEGRITY ARE THE FOUNDATION OF LONG SUCCESSFUL COMPANY. THANKS
Thank you for the insight Curtis. My business goes live in march after 12 years in the trade and I'm ready to make the leap! I'd love to hear more about your work order system and book keeping, thanks again for the great content on your channel.
QuickBooks Onlinehas made life easier. Almost no actual paperwork.
Wave is free. Not as convenient as QuickBooks, but free. That's what I started with as I didn't have much capital and was trying tot save every dollar. Decent tool , but takes some time to get comfortable with. Matter of fact, - still using it for my accounting.
I love ya Curtis. You tell it like it is. If you decide to start your own business you have to do everything it takes to make it work. You grow tremendously as a person as success comes and you feel great about yourself!
As a fairly new tech out on the field, I love how encouraging this is👍🏼much love out to you brother, god bless.
Thanks for those advanced. Thank u so much 🙏🏻 I'm study to do something for my family. I like work hard and learn more and more...
Thanks for the advice. I work for NY transit. Good pension job but I do ductless mini installs whenever I get them and starting to do a few service calls on central. I have Epa 608. This is something I would like to do upon retirement. Not major change outs and so on but minor service calls Just to make a few $$ on the side.
Sir this is like a message to me because I’m about to start my company as a self employee and I have a lot a questions and fears but your video gave me a lot confidence and for some reason today I’ve been thinking about it and after seeing your video I think I’m ready to do it thank you so much keep posting video like this one please really helpful
Excellent video. Couldn't have come at a better time. I'm so excited about starting my company. I am not going to quit my full-time job as an engineer at the hospital. My hope is to transition over full-time within a year or two. I am totally okay with it taking a while. I have a lot to learn. Right now I am learning the financial aspect of it all. I'm learning the profit and loss statement and how to calculate my gross margin percentage and all that stuff. Super excited about this.
We got this
Never give up
Always thought I'm nuts. But, man , bro... Starting with Xterra beats me by much. Especially takiing it this far ...love and proud to have ppl(techs) just like you are around... Quality work should be paid for - out of question
I appreciate the video and words of encouragement me and wife have recently started our business and it has been tough but fun at the same time. My biggest challenge is making time for my family and knowing when to call it a day.
Well said sir. Have a similar situation, one man operation with friends who are of similar mindset. Huge help! Thanks for your help and encouragement.
Everything you mentioned is why I didn't go into my own business. My family is more important and being with them was a must. I worked my ass off, self trained myself and moved from company to company till I found a job that I enjoyed doing and paid well and of course good benefits....Not like this everywhere in the country, but for me this was the best and I totally understand what you went thru to get where you are now.....
I started the same way in 06... took off 6 days the first year and a half.... every penny went into the business.... ps love your hat!!! Keep the videos coming!!
Could you make some videos on keeping your over head low, or some of the other "Business Owner" lessons. Love your vids Im a young service tech rn based out of florida thank you very much.
Outstanding video. I think there is alot of opportunity for honest technicians in todays market. Cudtomers are getting tired of these corporate sales technicians.
Great content Curtiss. Keep them coming
You are a nice person. Thank You
Really good video Curtis !! I am a service tech , 16 years experience started tin knocking did that for 8 yrs and now service last 8 some light commercial but mostly residential. I have gone back and forth about starting my own thing ?? But as you stated I am well aware that it’s a 24/7 365 commitment! Finding jobs doing those jobs and then having next job lined up !
I applaud you and your wife !
Look forward to more videos !
Thanks
This video is greatly appreciated and something that is not taught in school. Well, not the one I’m attending anyway. I’m wanting to get into the HVAC industry, but finding people to spend time with has been a little harder than expected. I get it….businesses don’t want you cutting into their profits. But it’s seems like every conversation I’ve had with them always starts with them saying that they were taught by someone. Oh the irony.
At about 15 minutes, EXCELLENT advice.
When it comes time to retire, you might find it difficult. I did HVAC/Refrigeration service for years and had to quit for health reasons. I still do some light residential service work for family and friends because I still love doing it.
Thank you so much for this great info , I am going into Business in June I’ve been working for a family oil co for over 30 yrs . Time for me to do my own thing thank you so much for the info
great advice im in ohio and been wanting to start my own hvac company for a while, can you do a video detailing whats the first steps in starting a business from just side work to scale and LLC, business insurance, ein number im very new to all this thanks!
Great video. Lots of good information for anyone thinking about going into business for themselves. I hope you put out more videos about the "business" side of the business!
Great video! Really needed to hear your message. Just started my Hvac company in California. Ty
Glad I could help
You should NOT be sending out invoices to customers, you should collect on the job, now property management may require invoicing, but otherwise you should collect on every job - do NOT wait for the mailman to bring you your money.
I’m planning on starting my own business within the next 12 months. I’m gathering books to take my license exam and plan to take the exam before February. I’ve worked for more than my share of companies. I think a lot of young companies and old companies alike make a huge mistakeby focusing and trying to sell based on price. Once you make your customers aware of the value of doing business with you, price will matter less and less.
Great video sir. I have a question for you. If you could go back to the day you set everything out and decided to create your business, what is the number one thing you wish you could’ve told yourself?
God bless you. This has weighed on my mind for many years and I've been told over and over of why I shouldn't or can't. My old boss said something that's stuck in my mind. He said "when a man gets to my age and looks back on his life, he doesn't regret the things he did as much as the things he DIDN'T do."
I recently lost my job and I took it as a sign from God to get to it. In three weeks I've built up a decent about of capital and now I'm ready make it happen.
First question; do I hire an attorney to set up my business or accountant or tax specialist?
This gentleman is giving truly helpful advice to anyone looking to jump into business for themselves! Thank you sir. I sincerely wish the best for you in your future endeavors.
Great wisdom for anyone wanting to start and own their own business. Nicely said.
I’m in the process of reading and studying for my license test, I just don’t like working under people. I love the feeling of being my own boss. Yes it’s stressful and hard work but so is working under company’s that will just hire anyone. I know I was meant to own some type of Business and thats why I watched this alot
Love your stuff. I don't know if I'll ever be a business owner myself. I see what the stress does to very hard working techs. But I do want that mechanical license. And I want that coveted NATE badge. Got my ICE stuff. Got a few years of experience. And now I'm trying my hand at chillers. Honey I shrunk the tech. There is no end to what you can do and learn in HVAC. It's really a skill for people that need constant challenges. Good luck to all fellow techs! You truly keep the world running.
Thanks for the amazing videos and great words of inspiration. God bless you and your family Curtis.
In Teeenty years you will be bothered more about what you should have done than what you tried and failed at, knowing you gave it a shot is a peace, that those who never tried and regret it will never know. Former business owner who spent twenty years doing what he loved, I am extremely pleased with life.
Please make this a series!!
Best video I have watched in a long time, I would like to speak with you on the phone one day
you can always call. might have to leave a message. but, I’ll call you back.
I appreciate that. Sounds good. I started a hvac company 14 months ago. I got my contractors license recently. I have work coming in but I am lost on what to do from there. I have a business checking account. I'm taking in checks. But I am lost on what kind of books I should be keeping. Taxes. I have no idea what I'm doing. Thank you
Congratulations on your hard work! Big fan! watch all your videos.
Curtis very inspirational video and great words of encouragement may God keep blessing your Business, you, your wife, your family and anyone you meet everyday, keep the videos coming please
When the fear of staying the same becomes greater than the fear of starting your own business, then youre ready...
That was deep, thanks sharing part of your life
Employees are expensive due to the Government requirements such as work comp and payroll taxes. Very few realize that employers have to pay the Government the same payroll taxes that the employee has deducted from their paycheck. Then, you add them to your auto insurance and watch the premiums go up. There is a sweetspot in how many employees you can have and the numbers generate a higher gross than what they cost. Running a business is expensive, no doubts about that. Having an office person is probably the most important of all, someone to take the calls, do paperwork, order supplies and schedule jobs. That allows the tech the time to do their physical work and be efficient.
Thank you so much, I want to so bad, I’m nervous about it, but man I think I could do it, and at a very high quality standard. Thanks for the encouragement!!!!
The one ive been waiting for thank you
I was in new construction for about 35 years with my own business, mainly framing houses and built some to sell, loved the work hated fighting employees, big turnover of help. Got behind in payroll taxes and IRS seized my bank account two times, that just about put me out of business. Had to sell my house to get caught up. Was good until 2008 and had to retire
That sounds rough
Great job Curtis!
Thanks for posting this , I took notes .
I’m too lazy and bad with money to start a business!
So inspiring! I am blessed by God because I am just an apprentice at 54yrs and after 30+ companies denied me an opportunity. I met my boss through a tech that came to work on my apt. And he is retiring just when I test for license. If I pass he is passing his client list to me with a % back to him and staying as my paid consultant. And my wife ran a medical billing office and now wants to office support me when I get licensed. She actually wants to be on-site with me. Going after your dreams is exactly right.
That’s great
Good morals, integrity and great work ethic. God fearing men! Or women.
Thanks for sharing your experiences