Right now, no. Since we were a small start up at the beginning of 2008 the economy really has taken it's toll. I haven't sold a job in two months and have only contract climbed 2 days in the same amount of time. I talked to a guy from the biggest local company earlier this week, hasn't worked since Christmas. People may be losing their jobs left and right but at least they can get unemployment. I know it will get better as it warms up but it's hard not to envy those who have some sort of income at this point.
I'm right there with ya man. We started in '06 as a partnership, and I took over solo last June, and it almost still feels like starting over. I still need alot of stuff to operate the way I'd like, and there's barely enough work to pay the bills, let alone grow. I've worked twice so far this year....one job scheduled. The three jobs combined are less than a grand.
I've talked with a few other local tree co's and we're all in the same shape around here. Doesn't seem to matter how much advertising you have out, because there aren't many people spending, or even able to spend.
Went to a tree service bank auction a week ago tomorrow. The flyer said they were selling because of "other interests" If it had been the tree service selling, I'm pretty sure they'd have had some reserve prices set. The bank didn't care much what the stuff went for.
'98 Chevy c7500 boom truck (log loader) $5700
'97 GMC c7500 60' bucket $13750
'84 International diesel grapple truck $7000
2005 woodmizer lt40hdgtr full hydraulic w/ 96 hrs $10400
bandit 250 w/ john deere diesel $3700
rayco pull behind grinder w/ wisconsin engine $2300
rayco 3 wheel grinder (not sure what model) $2400
those were all the actual sales prices, and everything was in good running order ready to go to work. I'm still cryin that I haven't had enough work to buy any of it.
Trying to wait patiently for spring knowing it'll get better.