Traditionally, people found handymen through local recommendations or word of mouth. It often required multiple calls or visits to get the help needed and the whole process used to be slow, especially if it took time to find someone reliable.
Today, technology has changed the way people find skilled professionals. Apps like Thumbtack allow users to book handymen and other services instantly from their phones, making the process quicker and more convenient.
If you're thinking about building a handyman app for your business, we’re here to guide you.
Thumbtack and Its Business Model
Thumbtack is the largest on-demand home service marketplace in the U.S. They connect users with local professionals for a wide range of services, from home cleaning to event planning.
It operates on an “aggregator model”. This means that, rather than providing services directly, Thumbtack acts as a middleman who links customers with freelance service providers through their platform and makes their revenue through commissions.
If you plan to build an app like that, you will follow the same model.
Workflow of a Handyman App
Before we get to the steps of building the app, it's important to understand the workflow.
Here's how it works:
User App Workflow
- Registration/Login: Users sign up and create a profile.
- Service Search: They browse or search for services based on categories.
- Select a Professional: Users review professional profiles, ratings, and prices.
- Book Service: Users select a date and time, and then confirm the booking.
- Payment: Secure payment is made through multiple options (e.g., credit card, in-app wallet).
- Review and Rate: Once the service is completed, users can rate the provider.
Service Providers App Workflow
- Registration/Login: Service providers sign up and create a profile.
- Job Listings: They view service requests from customers.
- Accept/Decline Job: Providers can accept or decline job offers.
- Service Management: They inspect job details and update progress in real time.
- Complete the Job: After completing the job, providers submit the task through the app.
- Receive Payment: Providers receive payment via the platform's payout methods.
Steps to Build an App Like Thumbtack
1. Market Research and Analysis
Before developing your app, conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience, their needs, and preferences. This will help you create a user-friendly app that appeals directly to your potential customers.
It's also important to analyze competitors in your niche. Identifying their strengths and weaknesses allows you to spot market gaps and offer a unique value proposition.
Lastly, assess the most in-demand services in your area. Prioritizing these services ensures your app stays relevant and competitive from the start.
2. Determine Monetization Methods
Next, you need to decide how your app will generate revenue. Home service apps like Thumbtack primarily earn revenue through “commissions” on bookings from both users and service providers.
In addition to commissions, here are other potential revenue streams to consider:
- Subscription Fee: Some platforms charge a subscription fee, which allows customers and providers access to premium features for a fixed monthly rate.
- Advertising: You can also generate revenue by selling ad space to third-party advertisers who want to promote their products or services on your platform.
3. Identify the Necessary Features
As you get closer to building your app, it's essential to decide on the features it will include.
Let’s take a look at some necessary features for different users of the app.
Features for Users
- Simple Registration Process: A quick and easy sign-up to get users started.
- Browse and Select Services: Users can explore and choose services from various categories.
- Payment: Users pay for the services with the preferred payment options like cash, credit/debit card or other.
- In-App Chat: Users can communicate with service providers directly through the app.
- Service Tracking: An option to view the status of their requested services.
- Schedule Services: Users can set appointments in advance.
- Rate the Service Provider: Ability to provide feedback after the job is completed.
Features for Service Providers
- Availability Toggle: A feature to manage their working status easily.
- Service Management Tools: Tools to track and update job progress.
- Multiple Payout Methods: Offering various options for receiving payments.
- Job Inspection Tools: Features to assess tasks before starting work.
- Earnings Report: Transparency in earnings through regular reports.
- Rate the User: Providers can provide feedback on users after completing a job.
Features for the Admin
- User and Provider Management: Admins can manage both users and service providers effectively.
- Control Over App Settings: Adjust app settings as needed.
- Service Category Setup: Ability to create and manage service categories.
- View All Bookings: Admins can access a complete list of bookings.
- Control Over Service Fares: Set and adjust service prices as necessary.
- Auto Payouts for Providers: Streamlined payment process for service providers.
- Geofencing: Match users with local providers based on their location.
- Access to Earnings Data: View earnings from all bookings for analysis.
4. Building the Handyman App
When you wish to build a handyman app like Thumbtack, you have two approaches you can take: custom development and readymade app solutions.
Let’s take a look at both.
Custom Development
Custom development is the option where you hire a firm to build the app from scratch, which offers a fully personalized solution.
The process includes:
- Planning: Defining your app requirements and creating initial visual guides.
- Designing: Crafting the app’s interface based on the plan.
- Developing: Building the app’s functionality according to the design.
- Testing: Ensuring the app is free of issues and bugs.
- Launching and Maintaining: Releasing the app and providing ongoing support.
While this method provides more flexibility, it’s typically more time-consuming and requires more resources.
Readymade App Solution
Your second option is called a readymade app solution. These are business apps that come with pre-built workflows and features.
Many providers offer these ready-to-launch apps for home service businesses, which allow you to quickly enter the market.
The process includes:
- Purchasing: Acquiring the ready-made app solution.
- White-Labeling: Rebranding the app to reflect your brand, typically at no additional cost.
- Customizing: Adding any unique features (if needed).
- Launching: Getting your app live and operational quickly.
Ready-made solutions are cost-effective and faster to launch compared to custom development.
Of the two options, the choice depends on your app requirements and budget. Take the time to consider your needs and make an informed decision.
If you decide on a ready-made app solution, you can consider our Thumbtack clone.
With our solution, you get:
- Android and iOS apps for users and providers.
- An admin panel for platform management.
- Free tech support, including white-labeling and app launch assistance.
- 100% source code for customization.
Conclusion
Building your handyman app is just the beginning as effective marketing is essential for attracting users and fostering growth.
A strategic marketing plan will help you reach your target audience and showcase the unique features that set your app apart.
Think of marketing as the bridge connecting your app to potential users.
Engaging content, social media campaigns, and local partnerships can drive awareness and encourage app downloads.
Launch your Handyman App with Us!