8 Tips for Buying a Successful Lawn Mowing Business

8 Tips for Buying a Successful Lawn Mowing Business

Australia loves a good lawn. With over 21 million households and thousands of commercial properties, the demand for lawn mowing services isn’t slowing down. The industry is growing fast, with the Australian lawn mower market projected to hit $1.31 billion by 2029. 

The appeal of buying a lawn mowing business is pretty clear, offering flexible schedules and relatively low running costs, making them an attractive option for Aussies eager to tap into the outdoor maintenance market.

 

1. Know Why You Want to Buy a Lawn Mowing Business

 

Buying a lawn mowing business is a great entry point into business ownership, especially for those who enjoy working outdoors and want the freedom of being their own boss. With relatively low startup costs compared to other industries, it’s a business that can quickly generate income.

Lawn mowing services are always in demand, whether in busy city suburbs where homeowners need help maintaining their gardens or in rural areas with large properties requiring regular upkeep.

The flexibility of the business allows owners to set their own schedules, take on as much work as they want, and grow the business at their own pace. Some operators prefer to keep it small and manage the business themselves, while others expand by hiring staff and taking on larger contracts.

Understanding your goals—whether you want a steady income or a scalable business—will help you choose the right lawn mowing business to buy.

 

2. Understand the Lawn Mowing Industry in Australia

 

There are over 16,500 gardening service businesses in Australia, which include lawn mowing services. Demand is consistent throughout the year, peaking in spring and summer. There are opportunities to service small residential clients, large commercial contracts, and everything in between.

Homeowners, real estate agents, commercial property managers, and government contracts all contribute to the industry's ongoing demand.

There is a large range of opportunities, from servicing small residential clients on a weekly or fortnightly basis to securing large-scale commercial contracts with businesses, schools, and councils.

Many lawn mowing business owners also expand into additional services like garden maintenance, hedge trimming, fertilising, and weed control to increase revenue.

Franchise models like Jim’s Mowing dominate the space, offering brand recognition and support. Independent operators, however, enjoy full control and higher profit margins. 

 

3. Research How Much You Can Earn

 

Earnings in the lawn mowing industry vary based on location, client base, and services offered.

According to Jim’s Mowing, a typical client requires services 17 to 20 times per year, contributing between $900 to $1,400 annually. With approximately 90 to 100 regular clients, a franchisee’s turnover can range from $81,000 to $140,000 per year. 

 A lawn mowing business in South Sydney is pulling in $80,000 pa, with $45,000 of that being net profit, while a Jim's Mowing franchise in Glendenning, NSW, is available for $33,190 plus equipment, with an estimated yearly income of $61,748 from regular clients.

 

4. Check the Client Base

 

A solid client base means predictable income and less financial stress.

Businesses with ongoing contracts or repeat customers are far more stable than those relying on one-off jobs.

When looking at a business, check for a good mix of residential and commercial clients to ensure steady work throughout the year.

Commercial contracts often bring in larger, more consistent payments, while residential clients provide regular, smaller jobs that help maintain cash flow.

 

5. Review Financial Records

 

Before purchasing, review the business’s financial records to assess profitability and identify any potential issues. Check the revenue trends, expenses, and any outstanding debts. When purchasing any business, it's a good idea to do your proper due diligence to avoid any surprises later.

Identify any slow periods and determine if there are opportunities to increase revenue during these times. Consider what factors contribute to downturns and whether they can be managed or improved.

 

6. Inspect the Equipment and Operations

 

Keeping equipment in good condition saves money and keeps the business running smoothly. Worn-out or poorly maintained tools can lead to expensive repairs or replacements, cutting into profits.

Ask the current owner about the history of the mowers, trailers, and other gear to avoid unexpected costs. Is the current equipment included in the sale of the businesss, or will it be sold to you at an extra cost?

 

7. Know the Cost of Buying a Lawn Mowing Business

 

The cost of buying a lawn mowing business in Australia depends on factors such as location, client base, and included equipment. Smaller businesses with a steady flow of residential clients can start from as little as $50,000, while larger businesses with commercial contracts and multiple employees can be priced well over $300,000.

While its true that lawn mowing businesses can run on the more affordable side, businesses priced under $100,000 can still be quite profitable. 

For example, a lawn mowing business in Gosford, NSW, is listed for $16,000, offering an established client base and ongoing income. 

In Surfers Paradise, QLD, a lawn mowing business is available for $28,000, providing a mix of residential and commercial clients. 

For those looking for a larger operation, a landscape maintenance business in Western Australia is on the market for $450,000, with multiple income streams and an established reputation. 

Understanding what’s included in the sale, such as existing contracts, equipment, and goodwill, is crucial when evaluating the cost of a lawn mowing business.

 

8. Decide Between Franchise or Independent

 

Choosing between a franchise and an independent business depends on your business goals.

A franchise offers brand recognition, an established system, and support, but comes with ongoing fees and less operational flexibility.

Independent businesses provide full control over operations and the potential for higher profit margins but requires more effort in building a brand and marketing to gain clients.

Some franchisees have raised concerns about high fees and financial viability within structured franchise systems. Former Jim’s Group franchisees have spoken about the financial pressures and challenges of the model.

 

Buying a lawn mowing business can be a great investment with steady demand and strong growth potential.

Whether you choose a franchise or an independent operation, conducting thorough due diligence is essential to ensure the business aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle.

 

 

 

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