Today we’d like to introduce you to Jackie Hill.
Hi Jackie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started Lakes Area Residential Cleaning in 2021. In the beginning, I created a Facebook page, made flyers, and posted locally to get my name out there and find my first customers. I built the business step by step, and what started as a side hustle has grown into something much bigger.
Today, we provide residential, commercial, and short-term rental cleaning, and we’ve expanded from the rural communities of west central Minnesota into the Twin Cities. That growth is something I’m really proud of, especially knowing where I started.
One of the most meaningful parts has been being able to hire members of my own family. Building a business that creates opportunities for the people I love makes it even more special. Seeing how far Lakes Area has come motivates me to keep growing and see what else is possible.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. In the beginning, one of my biggest struggles was learning how to price jobs and, in the process, learning my own worth. I had to ask myself what jobs I was willing to take on and whether the pay made sense for the time and effort involved. Spending two hours cleaning someone’s home for $40 wasn’t worth it for me, and I had to become comfortable recognizing that.
I learned not to sell myself short and that I don’t have to accept every job. I also learned to trust that the right opportunities will find me without feeling like I need to lower my prices just to stay busy.
Balancing my home life and work life is something I’m still learning. There’s always something that needs my attention, and I’m figuring out how to grow my business while making time for my family and myself. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I’m still learning along the way.
We’ve been impressed with Lakes Area Residential Cleaning, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Lakes Area Residential Cleaning provides residential, commercial, and short-term rental cleaning in west central Minnesota and the Twin Cities. We offer recurring housekeeping, deep cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and Airbnb turnovers. We work with homeowners, business owners, and property hosts who need help keeping their spaces clean and ready for everyday life, work, or guests.
What matters most to me is making someone’s day a little easier. People reach out for different reasons. Some have demanding schedules, some are preparing for a move, and others need help staying on top of their space. I want to understand what would be most helpful for each client and build a working relationship where they feel comfortable asking for it.
I take pride in the trust people place in us. Cleaning is personal, especially when you’re working in someone’s home, and I want clients to feel respected and comfortable throughout the process. I place a lot of value on clear communication, attention to detail, and being willing to listen and address concerns.
I want readers to know that there’s a real person behind Lakes Area who cares about the work and the people we serve. Whether you need ongoing help at home, a fresh start with a deep clean, or cleaning support for your business or rental property, we’d love to hear what you’re looking for.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I encourage anyone starting a business to get active in their community. Reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce, West Central Initiative, or a similar organization in your area. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, share what you’re working toward, and ask for guidance.
For me, getting involved in my community has been a way to build connections. Networking doesn’t always have to be a formal event. It can start with a conversation, showing up, or taking the first step to reach out.
There are people out there who want to help. You just have to find them and be willing to accept support. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
Pricing:
- Express Cleaning $100
- Standard Cleaning starts at $160
- Deep Cleaning starts at $350
- Commercial rate starts at $55 /hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lakesarearesidential.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DsURHFWxM/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://book.squareup.com/appointments/qh95qo65ay6i02/location/CQCK4AK66AP6S/services
