Advice for First-Time Barbershop Owners: What You Need to Know Before You Open Your Doors

Opening your first barbershop is an exciting step — but it’s also one that comes with real challenges. Many first-time owners imagine a full shop, steady rent coming in, and growing profits. But the reality is that success takes careful planning, patience, and smart decision-making, especially in the beginning.

Whether you’re weeks away from opening or just starting to plan, here are some important lessons every new shop owner should know:

1. Prepare for Empty Chairs — And Make Sure You Can Afford It

Before you even think about turning the key in your new shop’s door, you need to make sure your finances are solid. Can you cover all your expenses — rent, utilities, supplies, insurance, maintenance — even if none of your chairs are rented out yet?

Hope for the best, but plan for the worst. It might take time to fill all your chairs, and there will be slow seasons. Having the ability to keep your shop open and operating without depending on immediate rent payments will give you breathing room and prevent desperate decisions later.

2. Understand Your Role: You’re a Landlord, Not a Boss

If you’re operating under a booth rental model, it’s critical to remember: you are not the barbers’ boss. You are their landlord.
That means you can set rules for the shop itself — things like:

• Acceptable music

• Cleanliness standards

• Respect between barbers and clients

• Professionalism in common areas

But you cannot dictate their work schedule, service prices, or even their dress code. They are independent contractors running their businesses within your space.

The key: Interview prospective barbers carefully before renting them a chair. Ask about their work habits, attitude, and goals. It’s better to wait for the right fit than to rush someone in who will create conflict or drama later.

3. Be Flexible — But Realistic — With Late Payments

It’s almost inevitable: some barbers will pay late. Life happens, and you should be flexible within reason.
A missed payment for a week or two isn’t necessarily cause for eviction. In fact, being too quick to evict can backfire — an empty chair means lost income for you too.

However, if a barber falls too far behind, be realistic. At a certain point, they simply won’t be able to catch up.
Your job as the owner is a balancing act: be supportive, but protect the financial health of your business too.

4. Offer Move-In Specials to Attract Renters

Most barbershop renters are moving from another shop, and changing locations can mean losing some of their loyal clients.
You can make your shop more attractive by offering move-in specials like:

• Half-off rent for the first month

• A few free weeks of rent if they sign a longer lease

• Small incentives like a welcome package (business cards, shop T-shirt, etc.)

These small gestures can help barbers get back on their feet — and they could be the deciding factor between your shop and the one down the street.

5. Invest in Basic Marketing for the Shop

Even though your renters are responsible for their own businesses, helping them helps you too.
At a minimum, you should have:

• A professional website showcasing the shop, the barbers, and contact information

• A Google My Business page so you show up in local searches

• A dedicated shop phone line (even if it’s just for forwarding calls)

These things create a strong first impression for potential clients and renters.
Even a small advertising budget — or simply making sure your Google listing is optimized — can keep your chairs full and your reputation strong.

6. Stay Connected — Keep Learning and Growing

Running a barbershop isn’t a “set it and forget it” business.
There’s always something new to learn about attracting renters, growing your brand, or maximizing profits.

That’s why we invite you to sign up for our free newsletter — it’s packed with practical tips and insider advice to help barbershop owners thrive.

7. Start Getting Clients Right Away — For Free

If you’re serious about growing fast, don’t miss out on our free referral app, Haircut Now.

Haircut Now is the only app dedicated to sending barbers new clients.
We’re not a booking platform — you’ll still want apps like Booksy or The Cut for managing ongoing appointments once you’re busy. But Haircut Now helps you and your barbers get clients today, even if you’re brand new.

Clients can find you directly, check your photos and reviews, and book an appointment right away.
Get listed on Haircut Now for free here.

Good luck with your new shop!
Remember: patience, preparation, and smart management are the keys to success. We’re rooting for you!