Do you want to start a computer repair business from home? If yes, you are in the right place. Here in this article, we list down all the steps you need to follow to build a successful home-based computer repair business.
Computer pundits suggest sales of computer services are poised for enormous growth in the future. In the US alone, the computer repair industry generates more than 18 billion in revenue. As a matter of fact, many people are already in this business and making a decent income. Before we guide you on how to go about starting the business, let us first understand whether starting a computer repair business is profitable or not.
Is Computer Repair Business Profitable?
Firstly, the computer repair industry is a fast-growing business and the demand for skilled repairers was never so high. And this demand is expected to continue to increase every year.
Secondly, the sale of computers we all know is going to increase. Hence, the demand for repairing those devices in the future is bound to come.
Thirdly, in the current economic climate, the demand for laptop and computer repair has increased in manifolds. People are less likely to go and buy a new computer laptop just because their current one is having problems.
Fourthly, you don’t need much investment to start a computer repair business. One can start a computer repair business from or garage space with almost no money.
10 Steps to Start a Home-Based Computer Repair Business
1. Learn the Skills
If you are new to this trade, learning the skills comes first. You need to find out someone who can train you. You can get trained by a trainer who is in this trade and has good experience or from a local institute. It must be noted here, the computer industry is extremely dynamic in nature. Even if you are experienced, you need to be always in training mode to learn the new skills which drive the market.
2. Know your Strength
Knowing your strengths is an important aspect of turning your computer repair business into a successful venture. Since you are starting the business from home on your own, it is essential to be technically competent in the type of computer repair jobs offered to customers.
Also, it is very important in this business to keep updated with the recent trends and market demands as the technology in this industry evolve fast. Furthermore, you need to have a good balance of technical competency, communication skills, and understanding of the needs of customers to be successful in this business.
3. Identify your Target Audience
Identifying your customer segment is a critical decision you need to make in the starting phase of the business. There are broadly three customer audiences you can cater to.
The segments are big corporates, the small office and home office( SOHO ), and the general individual customers. Decide which one to cater to based on your experience and capacity. It is advised to do proper market research and collect more information about the local demand and competition.
4. Select Services
It is essential to select a set of services that you are going to offer from your home-based computer repair shop. Some of the most popular computer or laptop services you can offer are as follows:
- Virus removal
- OS installation
- Hardware Repair
- Software troubleshooting
- Accessories repair
- Networking support
- Data Recovery & Backup
- Build customized computers
- Motherboard replacement
- Computer maintenance services
- Memory Upgrades
5. Create a Business Plan
As with any other business, creating a business plan for your home-based computer repair business is very important. If you are starting small with less capital, try to make your own business plan. It is time-consuming and you need to put in some effort but it will prove to be extremely helpful in running your business venture in the near future.
6. Choose a Business Name
Choosing a relevant business name for your home-based computer repair business will help you in promoting and create a brand. In addition to this, when you decide to create a website for your business, the availability of a similar domain name might be an issue. So, before you finalize your business name, check the availability of a relevant domain name.
7. Fix your Rate
The primary investment in this business is your time. Hence, fixing your rate is the most important decision you have to take in this business. You can choose service rates for the specific jobs you provide or can fix an hourly rate.
8. Make the Business Legally Compliant
Decide on the business structure under which you are going to operate. After receiving the necessary documents, check whether you need to apply for a business license. Don’t forget to open a business bank account.
9. Equip your Workplace
The home-based computer repair workplace must be similar to that of a workspace of a retail computer repair shop. You must plan in detail before setting up a computer repair workspace. Some of the most important factors one must consider are dedicated area, furniture, cabinets, shelves, comfortable tables and chairs, labeled boxes for storing supplies, good lighting, proper ventilation, undisturbed electric supply, etc.
In addition to the setup and interior, you will need to buy some essential tools for the repair job. Some of the basic tools are listed below:
- Power supply tester
- Used Computers
- Screwdrivers
- Thermal paste
- Pliers
- Anti-static wrist strap
- Compressed air
- Cable tester
- Cleaning solution
- Diagnostic software to troubleshoot
- Replacement items
10. Cost of Starting a Computer Repair Business from Home
It is without saying the cost will depend on several factors. It includes investment in equipment, supplies, legal fees, and promotional costs.
One of the biggest cost factors that you do not need to pay is the space rent cost when planning to start from home. On average, one can start a home-based computer repair business with an investment as low as $1000 to $5000.
11. Be Patient
Remember, it takes time to establish yourself as a trustable service provider in this business. You will need to put continuous effort to build trust and goodwill with your customers. Give honest advice to customers.
Don’t be in a hurry and try to make immediate big profits. If your customer finds you genuine, customers will automatically come. Your understanding of customers and communication skills here will help you in creating goodwill for your home-based computer repair shop business.
12. Promote your Computer Repair Business
Initially, getting customers will not be easy. Inform all your near and dear ones about your services. Remember, they are the ones who may trust you without being critical of your competency. Treat them as best as you can.
Create business cards, flyers, and a brochure in your locality. Make your presence felt on social media platforms. If you can afford it, make a website for your computer repair business. This will enormously help in building trust among customers.
And finally, to be successful in the computer repairing business, your ability to network with people will decide the degree of overall success.
About the Author: 99businessideas.com led by Rupak Chakrabarty is committed to helping beginners, entrepreneurs, and small business owners in starting, managing, and growing their businesses.
