Mike
The VAT threshold and having to apply that to 700 customers came along just as I started on the national works, both of those coupled with a really good offer to buy the domestic work, which gave me the start up revenue - seemed like a no brainer.I'd had enough of the small payments and knew where I wanted to be.
I kicked in some works on the domestic window cleaning a couple of years ago and built up about four days but I still didn't want it then so I gave it away. I am in a different place now!
I have regrets because it is a great business but not quite where I expected by now (don't read too much into this as it is still in a very healthy place but I expected more!) and as you mention I did some work and invoiced on the 05th December - still trying to get paid a lot of money so the cash-flow of smaller works should help.
My idea of smaller works is still the affluent areas around the country that can all be leafleted as we go around looking after stores. I have been through Chelsea & Kensington this week, Cheshire and York - all with works pending or currently being worked on.
Roger - trying desperately to get a quote completed, will bell you tomorrow
Rob