Investors that self manage: becoming a handyman yourself...how?

[Ho Eun Park]

Hello,

Kind of an odd question. I have a dilemma where my current property manager may retire in ~5years. I mean that's still awhile but I am the type of person that likes to think many years ahead.

I recently graduated with two degrees and started working full time M-F while managing the properties time to time on the side along with my PM. I got very lucky in finding my PM who also happens to be a landlord for many properties in Southern California. She has her go-to contractor/handyman but I think they all might be retiring in ~5 years since they are at the age for retirement and have been casually discussing about retiring sometime soon. Just thinking about is dreadful since my PM has made my life a lot easier throughout the years. 

I have been reading some forums where people will self-manage their own properties. Heck, I even read on the forums where some people will self manage out of state (I think that's amazing that you found a way to self manage out of state without a PM). 

So the question(s): for those that self manage your own property, how did you learn the basic handyman skills for fixing/repairing basic things without the need to call a contractor/handyman? I am reading on some forums where people will fix or do everything themselves and I am wondering how did you gain those experience/skills... especially if you are working full time and doing this on the side?

I am thinking about reaching out to a construction company or even a handyman to be a mentor or take apprenticeship/assistant (I have seen some companies and handyman working on the weekends) so that I can learn the basics. Is that feasible or not recommended? I think it will be nice to know the basics/fundamentals and I am always eager to learn new knowledge. I think it will be beneficial in the long run for future investments as well.

OR another option I am thinking is attending a vocational school? I have seen some with short programs with low/affordable tuition. 

What do you advise? Is it a bad idea? 

[Lee Bell]

I learned a variety of stuff from my Dad who was an HVAC guy and had experience in a lot of different trades. I stick with the easy things, and hopefully not time consuming..

Garbage disposal, faucet, toilet guts replace, bath sink drain, electric outlets, switches, fixtures. These are all pretty easy.

Painting inside, baseboards, fence repair, doorknobs, hinges, handles, easy. Even replacing a shingle or 2 is not hard. Most yard work is just sweaty.

Repiping the house, new electric panel and service, foundation retrofitting, HVAC repair, pouring a new driveway, tree work, exterior paint. Counters and cabinets. These are left to a pro.

Estimate how long the job will take then multiply by 3.

Do you have more time, or money?