What began as one couple’s experiment in entrepreneurship has grown into a dynamic, community-focused handyman business powered by heart, hustle, and a love of learning.
Five years ago, Abby and her husband Travis launched their handyman business following Travis’s departure from a high-stress property management role. A natural problem-solver, Travis has always had a hyper-focus on fixing things. He loves to tinker, repair, and improve. Abby, a business degree holder with a bubbly, outgoing personality, brought complementary strengths: organization, communication, and a deep desire to give back and teach others.
Together, they form a husband-wife team that doesn’t just fix homes. They educate, empower, and uplift with IFixdIt, LLC.
From Skeptic to Business Partner
At first, Abby wasn’t sold on the idea. She had concerns about insurance, funding, and how they would juggle work and raising their children. But she agreed to support Travis for six months and never looked back. Although she didn’t have an initial passion for home repairs, her love for learning and connecting with others drew her in.
Over time, Abby found herself not just helping in the field but also stepping into a leadership role. She began handling operations, customer communications, and marketing. Now, she’s transitioned out of day-to-day repair work to focus on managing the business full-time. She still enjoys drywall repairs, assembling bunk beds, playsets, and even building creative features like their now-famous bunny wall. It’s a custom enclosure for rescued rabbits at a local veterinarian’s home, complete with a framed, floor-to-ceiling chicken wire wall, swinging door, and a separate dog passage.
Teaching the Next Generation
A highlight of their journey has been blending business with education. During the winter, when outdoor work slows, Abby and Travis become homeschool construction teachers. They teach practical repair skills to kids, from adjusting doors and installing locks to repairing drywall and even learning how to pull a toilet and replace a wax ring.
Their goal? To educate both homeowners and children on how to fix and maintain their living spaces.
“We want people to feel confident in their homes,” Abby says. “Dive into your projects—come dive in with us!”
Building a Culture of Giving
Community service is built into their business model. For three years running, the couple has donated two hours of handyman services each month to local nonprofits. These include everything from minor repairs to creative builds that benefit shelters and community spaces.
Abby’s passion for connection shines through. Whether she’s working on-site, mentoring other entrepreneurs, or brainstorming service projects, her joyous energy is infectious.
Pricing, Planning, and Growing Pains
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the biggest has been finding the right pricing model.
“At first, we were definitely undercharging,” Abby admits. “We didn’t know what people expected or what the market could handle.”
That changed when she found supportive online handyman groups. There, she got valuable feedback on everything from estimating jobs to handling tough customer situations.
“I’d post a scenario and ask, ‘How would you handle this?’ And I got real, honest responses.”
They’ve since shifted to a mix of hourly and project-based pricing. However, striking the right balance — fair to the customer and sustainable for the business — remains an ongoing challenge.
Staffing is another hurdle. As demand has grown, Abby’s five hours of office time a day are no longer enough.
“We need help, both in the field and in the office. There are more calls, more emails, more projects than we can manage alone.”
Abby recommends using Jobber, a project management and automation tool that has helped streamline scheduling, invoicing, and client communication for their growing business. As part of Jobber’s referral program, new users who sign up using Abby Janssen’s name or her business, IFixdIt Handyman, will receive one month free. It’s a practical way to get started with a tool Abby describes as essential for staying organized and saving time — especially for small service-based businesses juggling multiple tasks.
Celebrating Five Years
June 2025 marked five years in business. To celebrate, the company held a birthday bash at their community pool.
“It’s a way to thank our past customers, neighbors, and supporters,” Abby says. “We wouldn’t be here without them.”
The Grow Nebraska Women’s Business Center played a pivotal role in helping Abby and Travis build a strong foundation for their handyman business. Through the Snap and Boost program, they received guidance and resources to write a comprehensive business plan — an essential step in securing funding and setting long-term goals. The program was especially helpful in the early stages, offering structure, feedback, and encouragement tailored to new business owners. As a result of their participation, Abby and Travis were also awarded a grant, providing a financial boost that helped move their business forward with confidence.
Abby’s Advice for Fellow Entrepreneurs
Reflecting on her journey, Abby has plenty of wisdom for other business owners, especially those just getting started.
“Join groups in your field. Network. Do one-on-one meetups with other professionals,” she advises. “Reach out to people. Connect with them so they can use your service and so you can refer each other. There’s more than enough work to go around.”
She also emphasizes authenticity and alignment over perfection.
“Just be you. Your customers will find you, and they’ll be the right fit.”
Looking Forward
As Abby and Travis continue growing their business, they remain committed to their core values: family, community, learning, and service. Their story is a testament to what’s possible when skills, heart, and hustle come together.
“We fix things,” Abby says, “but what we really do is build trust, build confidence, and build community.”
CONTACT
www.ifixdithandyman.com
www.facebook.com/IFixdIt
402-681-3700
