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Spring into Business: Top Service-Based Opportunities in WNC for 2025
WNC -- As winter gives way to spring in Western North Carolina, the changing season brings new opportunities for entrepreneurs looking
to start a service-based business. With warmer weather,
homeowners, vacation property owners, and local businesses seek services that cater to outdoor maintenance, tourism, and home improvement. If you’re looking to start a business with minimal investment, now is the perfect time to seize the demand. Here are some of the most promising service-based business ideas for spring 2025.
1. Lawn Care & Landscaping Services
As the grass starts growing again, homeowners and businesses need help with lawn maintenance. A basic lawn care service—including mowing, edging, and weeding—requires only a mower, trimmer, and blower to get started. Expanding into landscaping services like mulching, flower bed design, and shrub trimming can increase profitability. With many residents returning after winter, this is a service in high demand.
As the grass starts growing again, homeowners and businesses need help with lawn maintenance. A basic lawn care service—including mowing, edging, and weeding—requires only a mower, trimmer, and blower to get started. Expanding into landscaping services like mulching, flower bed design, and shrub trimming can increase profitability. With many residents returning after winter, this is a service in high demand.
2. Pressure Washing & Outdoor Cleaning
Winter leaves behind dirt, grime, and mildew on sidewalks, driveways, decks, and home exteriors. Pressure washing services are affordable to start and can be highly profitable. Many homeowners and businesses, particularly vacation rentals in Asheville and the surrounding areas, require regular cleaning to keep properties looking fresh and welcoming.
3. Home Improvement & Handyman Services
With warmer weather, homeowners start tackling delayed repairs and upgrades. A handyman service can cater to small jobs like painting, deck repairs, fence installations, and light carpentry. Post-Hurricane Helene recovery efforts have also left many homes in need of minor fixes, creating additional business opportunities.
4. Gardening & Outdoor Spaces
As more people spend time outside, the demand for gardening services increases. You can offer services such as flower bed design, vegetable garden setup, and native plant landscaping. With a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly gardening, organic lawn care and pollinator-friendly garden setups are trending.
5. Junk Removal & Hauling
Spring cleaning means homeowners and businesses are decluttering and need junk removal services. A truck and basic hauling equipment are all you need to start a profitable business offering furniture removal, yard debris cleanup, and general hauling.
6. Mobile Car Detailing
As travel picks up in spring, car owners want their vehicles looking clean and polished. A mobile detailing business allows you to meet customers at their homes or workplaces, providing convenience and a valuable service. This is particularly profitable in tourist-heavy areas where visitors want their cars cleaned after long drives.
7. Pet Services: Walking, Grooming & Sitting
With people getting outside more, pet owners need assistance with dog walking and pet sitting. Mobile grooming services are also in high demand, as pet owners seek convenient, stress-free grooming options for their furry companions.
8. Tourism & Outdoor Adventure Services
Western North Carolina thrives on tourism, and as the weather warms up, visitors flock to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Appalachian Trail, and local rivers. If you love the outdoors, consider offering guided hiking, fishing, or camping experiences. Tourists are also looking for adventure rentals such as bicycles, kayaks, or paddleboards.
9. Vacation Rental Cleaning & Management
With spring comes an influx of tourists, increasing the need for vacation rental upkeep. Services like turnover cleaning, restocking essentials, and light maintenance for Airbnb hosts can provide a steady income stream. Property owners often seek reliable, local help to manage their rentals efficiently.
10. Farmers’ Market & Local Food Services
Spring is when farmers’ markets come alive with fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts. Starting a booth selling home-baked goods, specialty jams, or organic produce can be a great way to break into the food business with minimal investment.
How to Get Started with Minimal Investment
Use What You Have – Many of these services require only basic tools or equipment.
Start Small – Offer affordable services and expand as you gain more clients.
Leverage Business Support – Look into small business grants from Mountain BizWorks or the NC Rural Center.
Now Is the Time to Act
With spring bringing renewed energy to Western North Carolina, the demand for these services is growing. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a full-time business, now is the perfect time to take advantage of seasonal opportunities. The key to success is starting small, building a reputation, and expanding as demand increases. If you’ve been thinking about launching a business, don’t wait—the time is now!
What business idea interests you the most? Let us know in the comments or share your experiences as a local entrepreneur!
WNCTimes
Image: WNCTimes