• Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in the handyman services industry?

Mike: My wife and I are from Polk County where we’ve been raised for most of our lives and have also raised our children here. I’ve always been a DIY type of person and have held many different jobs in many different trades. I’ve owned a couple small businesses before but just couldn’t stay busy enough until I started this one. 

• What inspired you to establish Quillen’s Handyman Services in Winter Haven, Florida?

Mike: Winter Haven has been home for quite a while so it just made sense to start the business here. I found myself getting burnt out with normal jobs so the Handyman industry is perfect for me because I’m always doing something different.

• How has your business evolved since its inception, and what sets it apart from other handyman services in Polk County?

Mike: We have been able to grow our business through mainly word of mouth but have recently pushed harder on social media to get our name out there. I think what sets us apart from other handymen is quality, integrity, dependability, and the fact that we can handle most projects from start to finish in house. 

• What types of services does Quillen’s Handyman Services offer to the Winter Haven community?

Mike: Our services include but are not limited to; drywall patching, painting, pressure washing, furniture assembly, tile installation & repair, LVP flooring, vanity replacement, carpentry, door replacement, TV wall mounts, floating shelves, media walls, ceiling fan and light fixture replacement etc. 

• Could you share some of the most common home improvement or repair challenges you encounter in Central Florida?

Mike: The most common would definitely be water damage. From wood rot on the exterior to holes in the drywall ceiling inside as a byproduct of leaking air conditioners. Water is our biggest enemy living here in Florida. 

• What do you enjoy most about being a business owner in Winter Haven, Florida?

Mike: Definitely meeting new people and doing something different just about every day. The pride we get when customers are pleased with the results and even brag about us is why we strive for excellence every day. 

• Can you tell us about a particularly memorable project or customer experience that stands out to you?

Mike: One of my long-time and favorite clients is a man named James. He was one of my very first customers and kept me pretty busy when I was getting started. What’s most memorable is when he asked if he could pray for me and asked if I’d like to join their daily morning prayer. I was very much obliged and was very thankful for that moment. 

• How do you and your team stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies to provide the best services to your clients?

Mike: Honestly, YouTube has been a tremendous help to my business. There’s a lot to learn out there and I have gained a ton of great knowledge from watching videos on that platform. 

• In your opinion, what are the key factors that homeowners in Central Florida should consider when hiring a handyman service?

Mike: In my opinion, the key factor would be their reputation in the community. Do your research and maybe even ask around to get some options of their work. And remember, the cheapest guy typically isn’t the best guy. 

• Could you share some tips for homeowners looking to tackle DIY projects around the house?

Mike: Practice is everything. Tutorials typically make it seem much easier than it really is, so getting some practice on a smaller scale to get yourself familiar with what you’re working with is always a great idea. 

• Winter Haven is known for its beautiful lakes and outdoor activities. What are your favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors in Central Florida?

Mike: Our family loves to do outdoor activities. We frequent a lot of state parks for the walking trails and absolutely love the springs to swim in during this torturous heat. We like to camp during the cooler months as well. We are often seen with fishing poles wherever we travel.

• Do you have any upcoming community events or initiatives that you’d like to share with our readers?

Mike: I look forward to attending a weekly meeting with faith-based business owners starting in September. 

• As a business owner, what do you find most rewarding about serving the Winter Haven and Polk County community?

Mike: The most rewarding part is being able to provide for my family while doing something that I love to do. 

• What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are considering starting their own handyman services business?

Mike: My biggest advice would be to not give up. It takes time to get a business rolling and perseverance is the key. Also, invest back into your craft whether it be tools, training or a combination of the both. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are great people in this community and a fair amount of work so chances are someone would be willing to show or tell you the right way. 

• Can you highlight some of the most unique or challenging projects you’ve taken on since starting Quillen’s Handyman Services?

Mike: Here recently we removed some metal paneling and expected a block wall behind it. Upon removal the whole wall with studs/insulation/drywall was exposed. We had to act fast with getting new insulation installed, waterproofing, and new paneling all before the typical Florida afternoon showers caught up to us. 

• When you’re not busy with work, what hobbies or interests do you pursue in Central Florida?

Mike: I personally love to fish with my family, dive at springs, ride dirt bikes, camp and cruise trails in Ocala National Forest. Traveling is something we wish we could do more of and hope we can in the future. 

• Florida is known for its diverse cuisine. Do you have a favorite local restaurant or food spot you’d recommend to our readers?

Mike: Carrabba’s is definitely our family’s top restaurant locally. We also love Egg Haven for breakfast food and Dino’s Drive-In for lunch. 

• What do you see as the future of Quillen’s Handyman Services, and how do you plan to continue serving the Winter Haven area?

Mike: Our plan for now is to continue serving Polk County and surrounding areas. We try not to look too far into the future as we never know what it may hold. After all, for us it is in the Lord’s hands. 

• Are there any fun facts or hidden gems about Winter Haven or Polk County that you’d like to share with our readers?

Mike: Winter Haven’s population has almost doubled from 2010-present. It’s estimated that over 57,000 people call Winter Haven home, up from around 33,000 in 2010. 

• Finally, if you had to sum up the essence of Quillen’s Handyman Services in just a few words, what would they be?

Mike: Doing quality work and taking care of your neighbors. Our reputation means the world to us and we are proud to have a great face in our community.