Do you know how Leah Busque, the founder of TaskRabbit, came up with the idea for her handyman service platform?

Once, she couldn't find the time to get dog food for their yellow lab, Kobe, and she wished there was a way to connect with someone in her neighbourhood who could get it for her.

Now that's relatable, isn't it? In today's fast-paced world, we are all exhausted and just wish there was someone to help us get stuff done, like setting up our TV, walking our dog, or even just mowing the yard, right?

This is where many people try to contact handymen, but most of them hate to search for various contacts for different tasks. And honestly, who can blame them? It's like adding more work to an already busy schedule.

This is precisely why many people prefer on-demand services like TaskRabbit and why they have gained popularity worldwide. So it's understandable that you're here, seeking to learn how to build an on-demand handyman service app like TaskRabbit.

You might be looking to start a handyman business, or perhaps you already have one and want to take it to the next level. In any case, you've come to the right place.

Welcome to our blog. Here you can get a complete low-down on how you can build on-demand apps like TaskRabbit for your handyman business.

So, shall we get started?

TaskRabbit, a Overview,

TaskRabbit, founded in 2008, is one of the top on-demand service platforms that has changed how people used to get things done by connecting them with skilled individuals who can help them tackle their to-do lists.

The business model of TaskRabbit is that it operates as a peer-to-peer platform where users can hand off tasks like home repairs, furniture assembly, or grocery shopping to trusted taskers. and they get a commission for connecting the two.

The platform's widespread popularity also helps us understand the demand for on-demand services in today's busy world, which makes it a compelling case study for those looking to enter the market.

How Does a Handyman App like TaskRabbit Work?

If you want to build an app like Taskrabbit, you need to know how an on-demand handyman works, and how the process works, so you can create one that is effective and useful.

Let's take a look.

Let's See the User Workflow

1. Signing Up:

The user starts by downloading the Handyman app and creating an account.
They may sign up with their email or phone number.

2. Task Posting:

Once they've signed up, they post the task they need help with, whether it's cleaning, furniture assembly, or something else. Describe what they need, where, and any preferences they have.

3. Finding the Right Service Provider:

They browse through service providers in the area and look at their ratings of previous tasks to find the best fit for their needs.

They may also request a random service provider for the task as offered by the platform.

4. Assigning the Task:

Once they've chosen a service provider, the user assigns them the task and chats with them to finalise the details.

5. Task Completion:

The service provider completes the task as agreed, and the user rates their service.

6. Payment:

The user pays securely through the app or with cash based on the app's offered payment methods.

Let's See the Service Provider Workflow

1. Registration:

The service provider may sign up on the Handyman app with their email or phone and then provide proof of their skills and experience.

They may go through a verification process before they are allowed to receive tasks.

2. Browsing Tasks:

Once approved, the service provider browses the available tasks in their area and chooses the ones they're interested in.

3. Complete Tasks:

After being assigned a task, the service provider communicates with the user to understand the requirements and complete the task according to their terms.

4. Get Paid:

The service provider receives payment securely through the app or with cash once the task is completed.

Top Features to Include in your Handyman App?

When you're building an app like TaskRabbit, features are the building blocks that turn an ordinary app into something extraordinary.

Just as a handyman needs the right tools for the job, your app needs the right features to ensure a great experience for users and service providers.

When it comes to including features, there are two types that you need to look out for:

  • Basic features (e.g., user and service provider sign-up, task categories, geolocation services)
  • Advanced features (e.g., in-app chat, multi-language and currency support, and emergency contacts)

Basic features are necessary to ensure a smooth flow, while advanced features set your app apart from others, attracting users.

Here’s a list of features and functionalities that could be incorporated into your TaskRabbit-like app:

User App Features

  1. Multiple service categories.
  2. Wallet options to promote cashless payment.
  3. Schedule the services when necessary.
  4. Appreciating the service providers by tipping them.
  5. In-app chat options to discuss service-related details.

Service Provider App Features

  1. Managing services they offer.
  2. Adding payout method to receive their earnings.
  3. Service provider’s availability status.
  4. Checking the earnings report.
  5. Tracking the bookings using the current and past bookings.

You will also need a web panel to manage the user and service provider apps and to oversee the users and service providers and their activities on the platform.

Here are a few features to include in your web panel:

Admin Web Panel Features

  1. Manage the users, the service providers, and the sub-admins.
  2. Manage service category availability.
  3. Automatic earnings distribution system.
  4. Manage bookings and scheduled bookings.
  5. Fare management.

These are just a few of the many features that can help you run a successful platform.

So when you want to build an app like Taskrabbit, identify and include all the top features of a Handyman app to enhance its quality and make it truly remarkable.

Two Ways to Launch Your Handyman App

So we covered how the on-demand handyman business app works and what features are needed in the app, It’s time to find out how you can build an app like TaskRabbit.

1. Custom Development

You might know about custom development. It's the classic way to get apps and websites for a business.

Basically, you find a development team you like, and tell them exactly what you want—how the app looks, works, and all the features it should have.

You call the shots, and they make it happen, crafting the app just the way you envisioned it.

One hiccup: building an app like this means high investment, both in terms of time and money.

If a business has the resources, they might go all out with custom development.

But for startups on a tight budget looking for a quick way into the industry, that's not always the best move.

So, what's the alternative? Let’s see.

2. Readymade Solution

If you're not quite sure what a ready-made solution is, let us simplify it for you:

It's like having a ready-to-go platform (app and/or website) tailor-made for your business needs.

These solutions already come packed with all the features and functionalities required for a business app, and they're ready to be personalized to match your brand.

Many businesses, including handyman services, benefit from these solutions because they help them launch a platform quickly and within their budget.

So, if you're thinking about launching an app like TaskRabbit for your handyman business without breaking the bank, a ready-made handyman business solution could be the way to go.

The best part? Most of the essential features for a handyman business app are already built into the solution, saving you both time and money on development.

This means you can get your app up and running in no time and without blowing your budget.

There you have it: two ways to create an app like TaskRabbit. Now, you can decide which path to take.

To do that, take some time to explore your options. Learn more about custom development and ready-made solutions to see which one matches the needs of your business.

Also, in case you decide on a readymade solution for your app, why not check out our TaskRabbit clone?

Our readymade solution for on-demand handyman service marketplace might be just what you need to launch your on-demand handyman business app.

  • Our clone offers you with user-friendly Android and iOS apps for both user and service providers
  • You get an easy-to-access admin panel that makes managing your business a smooth sail.

Our team is dedicated to delivering a solution that will both satisfy your needs and exceed your expectations.

Now shall we move to the next important section?

The Cost of Building an App Like TaskRabbit

Well, now that you know how you can build the app, the next thing you need to focus on is the cost factor.

The cost of building an app like TaskRabbit can vary depending on several factors:

  • Complexity of the app
  • Features you want to include
  • The development approach you choose

If you go for custom development, you'll need to think about hiring developers, designers, and project managers, along with ongoing maintenance and updates.

All these factors considered, custom development could set you back anywhere from $80,000 to $200,000.

On the flip side, opting for a ready-made solution, like a TaskRabbit clone, would cost you around $7,000 to $15,000.

Marketing Your Handyman Business

Now that we have covered the necessities of building the app, should we move on and talk about how you can enhance its reach?

Let's say you offer all the essential service categories in a handyman business and have an excellent app too, but you don't get many requests because not many people know about it.

So how can you get the word about your business out there?

It's time to market your handyman business! It's important if you want your app to get noticed by potential users.

Here are some strategies you can use:

1. Leverage Social Media:

Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Share what’s unique about your services, and maybe throw in some happy customer stories.

Also, interact with the audience to create a nice community around your business.

2. Offer Promotions and Discounts:

Everyone loves a good deal! Consider offering promotions or discounts to attract new customers and encourage repeat business.

3. Partner with Local Businesses:

Collaborate with local businesses, such as real estate agencies or home improvement stores, to cross-promote your services and reach a wider audience.

4. Encourage Word-of-Mouth Referrals:

Make sure to provide excellent customer support and encourage them to spread the word about your business to their friends and family.

Practising these strategies can help you reach more people in no time.

Also, remember to track your progress. See what works and what doesn't, and adjust your strategies accordingly for better progress.

Popular Examples of Handyman Apps

Well, since we discussed most of the essentials, why not take a look at some of the best handyman apps that did make it big in the on-demand Handyman service industry?

Maybe it could give you some ideas on what you can do to grow your business and inspire you in some way.

1. Handy:

handy-Screenshot-min

Handy, founded in 2012, is a popular platform in the United States.

It's well-known for its user-friendly interface and for connecting users with professional home service providers for a wide range of tasks.

⭐ App Store Rating: 4.1
⭐ Play Store Rating: 3.1

2. Thumbtack:

thumbtack---Screenshot-min

Thumbtack was launched in 2008 and is based in the US.

This excels at matching users with skilled professionals for their specific needs. It has become a go-to choice for many seeking various home services.

⭐ App Store Rating: 4.9
⭐ Play Store Rating: 4.8

3. Urban Company:

urban---Screenshot-min

Urban Company, founded in 2014, is a platform based in India that offers a wide range of home services like cleaning, repairs, beauty services, and more.

They're known for their broad selection of services and their cool brand.

⭐ App Store Rating: 4.7
⭐ Play Store Rating: 4.7

These top handyman apps, along with TaskRabbit, serve as great examples of platforms that have found success in the market.

If you study them, you can surely gather useful insights and ideas for your own app development journey.

Conclusion

Well, now that we’ve reached the end of the blog, we hope you know what you need to do to take the next step–- to get your app on the phones of everyone who wants just a little extra help in their daily lives.

As an entrepreneur, there are many things you need to learn and many mistakes you need to avoid when developing your mobile app, so do your research and gain the expertise you need to come up with an app that satisfies your customers.

If you have queries on launching your app with a TaskRabbit clone, reach out to us!

Drop us an email at [email protected].

We’ll be delighted to help you get the answers to your queries. Good luck with your venture!

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