From Corporate Life to Cleaning Ventures: Five Years Without a Salary

Burgess Heberer left a stable corporate job to independently run a home exterior cleaning service. He's yet to draw a regular paycheck, holding out until his business surpasses a $1 million revenue mark. Despite the long hours he and his wife invest, he enjoys newfound flexibility.

Journey into Cleaning Business

Heberer once worked in infant nutrition but found himself constrained by corporate restrictions. This prompted him and his wife to explore alternatives. The couple began cleaning exteriors and quickly realized they could match his previous income.

By July 2020, Heberer fully committed to this venture. Initial efforts involved small jobs for family, which expanded through word-of-mouth.

Funding and Growth

A strategic grant from Jobber, a software solution they use, provided a crucial $10,000 boost in their second year. This infusion allowed them to expand into more lucrative ventures like window cleaning for larger properties.

Today, the team includes seven full-timers and some part-timers, including college attendees or retirees.

Achieving Weekly Revenue Goals

The revenue fluctuates based on the job size, with crews typically able to handle two mid-sized tasks daily. Their target is a weekly income range of $15,000 to $20,000, although peak operations can bring in $25,000.

While focusing primarily on residential projects, they also service commercial clients such as amusement parks and educational institutions, with visits customized to client needs.

Financial Strategy for Entrepreneurship

His wife's steady teaching income was vital, providing health insurance and fiscal stability as they transitioned. Her involvement includes key operational roles like payroll and customer management.

The couple made sacrifices, including postponing vacations and home improvements. Knowing the financial uncertainty, Heberer deliberately reinvested into expanding rather than drawing a personal salary.

Adapting to Entrepreneurship

Now, personal finances are partly maintained through the business. Although the enterprise generated over $630,000 last year, Heberer aims for $1 million before opting for consistent personal earnings.

The independence of entrepreneurship demands constant attention, and household time often blurs with business discussions. However, the liberty it offers, like participating in school drop-offs, is invaluable.