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.