Contracters, Carpenters... Bid this Job!!!

coastalcruiser

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 2, 2007
Messages
559
Re: Contracters, Carpenters... Bid this Job!!!

i'm a carpenter too, of course I charge materials. Like itsaboattime said its Karma.
JJ, Maybe get buddy to do your taxes, accountants can save you lots of money.
 

dolluper

Captain
Joined
Jul 19, 2004
Messages
3,904
Re: Contracters, Carpenters... Bid this Job!!!

Three cases of beer ,5 BBQ's and material costs
 

jameskb2

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jul 26, 2007
Messages
191
Re: Contracters, Carpenters... Bid this Job!!!

I'm a pro carpenter, 20 years. Licensed, insured, tools and truck.

I charge $45 to $50 per hour. Three hour minimum. Clock runs while I work and run / pick up material. (Time expense to job)

Sound like a lot? I have gas, tools, maintenance on those, insurance, licensing and continued education. TAXES. Knowledge!

Consider, self employed, I don't get sick time, I don't get paid vacations, I don't get insurance sponsored by a company I work for. I pay for all of that myself. It only takes me once to explain that to a customer that balks at my rate for them to understand the value. I have been told I undercharge with all the expense considerations.

It took a long time for me to get respect for a professional service. Most homeowners still want something for nothing. I don't work for them.

Sub contracting, for another builder, I get $40.

Friends and family work, I charge according to the job. If they were going to hire somebody anyway, I get my rate. If it's a nitpick fix, then I do it for a favor. BEWARE, friends and family will always have something that needs doing, and will eventually ask you to rebuild their house if you let them. It's a fine line....feelings get hurt.

Sounds like these people are fair, not asking for something for nothing. If I were you, I'd charge what I get at your regular job, or going rate if your regular job pays more. I'd also STRONGLY suggest a written statement that holds you harmless. Or, get paid in cash.

People (even friends) are real nice and lovey dovey when they need / want something, but if things go wrong...they turn on you. It's sad, but true.
 
Top