Joseph Henschel didn’t set out to compete with large construction firms. He set out to serve his neighbors. What started as a simple handyman service has become a trusted name in Richmond, Virginia. His focus on honest work, strong relationships, and reliable service has helped him carve out a unique space in the local home improvement market.
Joe’s background blends technical skill and business experience. Born in Clearwater, Florida, he grew up with a strong sense of responsibility. He earned associate degrees in electronics and business management from City College in Fort Lauderdale in 1999. That mix of hands-on ability and practical business knowledge laid a strong foundation.
Before starting his own business, Joe worked in retail management. He joined Luxottica Retail and quickly advanced. Starting as a store manager at Sunglass Hut, he earned seven promotions in just six years. His time in retail taught him how to lead a team, serve customers, and manage day-to-day operations under pressure. These skills would prove useful later.
Joe eventually opened his own store, the Sunglass Shop of Waynesboro. There, he handled everything from staffing to inventory. He learned what it meant to be fully accountable for a business. But even with that success, Joe felt pulled toward something more hands-on. He wanted to build things, solve problems, and work with his hands again.
In 2016, Joe launched Henschel’s Handyman Service and Home Renovation. He started small, taking on repair jobs, light remodels, and service calls. He was involved in every project from start to finish. He valued doing the work himself and making sure it was done right.
Over time, Joe noticed something important. While large contractors often took on big remodels and long-term construction jobs, many homeowners still needed someone they could trust for the small stuff. Quick repairs. Minor updates. Urgent fixes. These were jobs that big firms often overlooked or overcharged for. Joe saw an opportunity to serve this niche.
In 2024, he rebranded the company as Joe Henschel Handyman. The new name reflected a sharper focus. Joe decided to center his business around everyday service calls—smaller projects that still required skill, care, and attention to detail. The shift allowed him to provide faster turnaround, better pricing, and more personal service than larger companies could offer.
Today, Joe runs a service-based business that feels personal and local. He competes with big construction firms by doing what they often can’t—responding quickly, showing up on time, and taking care of the little things that matter most to homeowners. While big companies may chase large contracts, Joe focuses on consistency, communication, and craftsmanship.
His specialties include electrical work, plumbing, flooring, and carpentry. He enjoys trades that require precision and problem-solving. He believes that even a small job deserves top-quality work. His clients appreciate that mindset.
Being licensed and insured gives his customers added confidence. But what really builds trust is Joe’s approach. He listens. He explains things clearly. He doesn’t rush. That’s how he earns repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals. His clients don’t feel like just another job. They feel like part of the community he’s helping build.
Joe’s plans for the future are grounded in that same community-first mindset. He wants to grow—but in a way that maintains quality. He’s exploring the idea of hiring a small team, carefully chosen and trained to reflect his values. He’s also looking at ways to streamline scheduling, offer online estimates, and continue to make his services more accessible across Richmond.
For Joe, growth isn’t about becoming the biggest. It’s about staying reliable. It’s about creating a local business that homeowners turn to with confidence. As he looks ahead, he’s focused on steady improvement—not just in the services he offers, but in the relationships he builds.
Outside of work, Joe enjoys spending time with his family and staying active. He lifts weights, goes for runs, and takes trips when he can. Those routines help him stay balanced and focused. He believes a strong work ethic starts with a clear head and healthy body. Travel and family time help remind him what all the hard work is for.
Joe Henschel didn’t build his business overnight. It took years of learning, listening, and adapting. But today, Joe Henschel Handyman stands as proof that small businesses can thrive—even in a market full of large competitors—when they put people first.