The Handi Blog
Practical guides, safety briefings, rate snapshots, and stories — written for South African homeowners who want to hire well without getting burned.
Locksmith in Sandton: What to Expect from a Lockout Callout
Locked out at midnight? Here's what a real Sandton locksmith should charge, what to insist on before they start, and how to avoid the "we got there and now it's triple" scam.
Garden Maintenance in Durban: Year-round Schedule and Costs
Durban's subtropical climate means gardens never really stop growing. A practical year-round maintenance schedule and what fortnightly visits should actually cost in 2026.
Pool Maintenance in Fourways: Weekly Service Cost Breakdown
Fourways has more pools per capita than almost any Joburg suburb. A guide to what weekly pool service actually costs, what's included, and when to escalate beyond chemicals.
Pest Control in Pretoria: Termite Season Survival Guide
September to November is termite-flight season in Pretoria. A guide to spotting an early infestation, what proper treatment costs, and how to protect a freehold home long-term.
CCTV Setup in Sandton: What 8 Cameras Actually Cost
Sandton freehold and estate homes typically run 6-12 camera systems. A clear breakdown of 2026 pricing for an 8-channel install — and what spec actually matters.
Tutoring in Cape Town: Matric Prep Pricing and How to Choose a Tutor
Matric exam prep in Cape Town runs R250-R600/hr depending on subject. A practical guide to the difference between a good tutor and an expensive one — and how to pick.
Mobile Phone Repair in Pretoria: Original vs Aftermarket Screens
Original Apple/Samsung screens cost more — but is it worth it? A clear comparison of screen types, what to ask before booking, and 2026 Pretoria pricing.
Carpentry in Sandton: Custom Kitchen Pricing in 2026
A Sandton custom kitchen costs R8,000-R18,000 per linear metre depending on materials and finish. Here's the line-item breakdown so you can read a quote properly.
Beauty Services in Sandton: Mobile vs Salon Pricing
Mobile beauty has reshaped Sandton — but is it cheaper than a salon, or just more convenient? A side-by-side cost comparison and what to expect.
Auto Mechanics in Edenvale: Independent vs Dealership Pricing
Edenvale has one of Joburg's deepest pools of independent workshops. A guide to what the major services and repairs cost, where indies beat dealers, and where they don't.
Photography in Johannesburg: Wedding Pricing 2026
Wedding photography in Joburg ranges from R8,500 to R55,000 in 2026. A breakdown of what each tier delivers, what's missing, and how to spec a contract that protects you.
Welding & Steelwork in Sandton: Custom Gates and Balustrades
A custom Sandton sliding gate runs R15,000-R35,000 fabricated and installed in 2026. Here's what drives the price and what to insist on for a 20-year install.