Insights from 18-Year-Old Chase on Growing a Successful Pressure Washing Business

Introduction

• Chase's Revenue: $12,000 a month on average
• Annual Revenue Target: $150,000
• Business Start: 1.5 years ago
• Business Name: Wizard Wash

Getting Started

• Motivation: Desire to work for himself
• Reason for Pressure Washing: Low investment, quick to start, enjoys working outside
• Initial Investment: $3,000 - $4,000 from a job at a pizza place
  • Spent on equipment, marketing, and logo
  • Used low-budget marketing (flyers, local advertising)

Challenges Faced

• Pricing: Understanding bid rates and adjusting prices
  • Initially low prices with a high close rate
  • Now targeting lower close rates but higher prices to increase profitability
• Marketing Consistency: Continuous marketing is crucial
  • Mistake: Stopping marketing while busy with work
• Learning and Integration: Reaching out to mentors and leveraging free resources like Facebook groups or forums

Practical Tips for Starting

• Zero Money Start: Get a job first to save money for initial investment
• Equipment Needed:
  • Pressure washer (~$1,800 - $1,900 each)
  • Surface Cleaner
  • Additional accessories (hoses, chemicals)
• Initial Steps:
  • Create a professional look with branding (logos, wrapped vehicles)
  • Utilize free marketing platforms: Facebook, Google My Business, Nextdoor
• Customer Acquisition: Personal ongoing projects can attract neighbors and local clients

Business Operations

• Service Types: Pressure washing (houses, roofs, fences, driveways) and paver sealing
• Workflow Management: Using Market software ($30/month) for estimates, invoices, scheduling, and revenue tracking
• Building Reviews: Directly asking for reviews post-service, follow up with texts
• Branding: Unique, noticeable truck wraps and logos to stand out

Key Skills and Approach

• Technical Skills: Understanding surfaces to clean them effectively without causing damage
• Sales Skills: Building confidence, learning from mentors, and actively seeking knowledge from experienced professionals

Future Goals

• Expansion: Hiring part-timers, extending services, and eventually adding a second vehicle
• Revenue Target: $400,000 in the following year
• Marketing Tactics: Use of mailers and flyers, continual investment in branding and visibility

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

• Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced professionals
• Mindset: Take the first step despite fears, persist through initial challenges
• Customer Service: Professional appearance, responsive communication, and transparency with clients
• Financial Management: Monitor margins, cautious investment in marketing

Conclusion

• Chase's Success Mantra: Face fears, commit to marketing, and continually learn and improve