Replies

1. 
   BossHog | Sep 18, 2003 05:34pm | #1

   There's a thread about every 2 weeks from someone wanting advice on going out on their own. Do a search with the word "starting" or "first" and you should get dozens of threads on the subject.

   Marriage doesn't depend on finding the right spouse but on being the right one.

2. 
   bobl | Sep 18, 2003 05:55pm | #2

   my guesses

   lots of demand, too few to provide

   you don't know your real costs and are fooling yourself

   your not charging what you're worth

   do you know what your overhead rally is? and wether you are making a profit or wages.

   bobl          Volo Non Voleo

3. 
   hasbeen | Sep 20, 2003 06:02am | #3

   Add 15% to your next five bids and watch for feedback...

   Any jackass can kick down a barn, but it takes a carpenter to build one.

1. 
   FastEddie1 | Sep 20, 2003 11:01pm | #4

   Add 15% to your next five bids  A bit unscientific, but it will provide a realistic answer.  Some regulars will say that you have to do a detailed analysis of job cost histories and rates of inflation and overhead and moon phases.  Do the 15% raise, if you can afford to lose a few jobs, and see what happens.  If you still get all you bid, then raise another 15%.  But be darn sure your production and quality justify the higher price.Do it right, or do it twice.

1. 
   hasbeen | Sep 21, 2003 06:13am | #9

   Yup.  But unscientific works. 

   I know a guy (different profession) who moved to a new town.  He called all his new competitors and checked out prices.  Set his rate at 10% over the highest competitor.  Was swamped in a hurry....

   Boldness has a lot to be said for it!!!Any jackass can kick down a barn, but it takes a carpenter to build one.

4. 
   xMikeSmith | Sep 21, 2003 12:05am | #5

   splurt.... welcome to the big time..

    the only caveat i would give is that this ain't kansas.. in other words..

    we're still riding the biggest building boom since WWII.. and maybe even better than that..

    yes.. even better than that

   mortgage is 5%.. these are not normal times.. normal times are scratching and gouging.. and your would be customers postponing their big remodels and the new house.. in short... build your business for the bad times , ' cause they're a commin.. they always do..

    so, yes.. raise your prices.. start tracking your costs.. find out what your production per man hour is .. with a  good crew .. and an average crew.. find out what your overhead is..

    are you a sole prop. or a corporation.. do you file a schedule C?  if so.. that will be the starting list of your overhead..look at last year's return.. the numbers you need are there .. unless you're playing games with uncle

   Mike Smith   Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore

5. 
   andybuildz | Sep 21, 2003 02:17am | #6

   Charge for estimates !

   True compassion arises out of the plane of consciousness where I "am" you.

   http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM

6. 
   sawdustmaker | Sep 21, 2003 02:48am | #7

   Make a list of your actual costs. This may take some thought. Insurance, phone, rent, utilities, marketing, etc. It's the indirect overhead costs that many people don't think about. Keep accurate bidding and as-built records. This will take time, but it may help you in the lean times. Raise your profit margin while you have a chance, as you may have to lower it sometime in the future.

7. 
   teasea | Sep 21, 2003 06:12am | #8

   go rent the movie the money pit with tom hanks and shelly long, and do just like the plumbing contractor does! ok just kidding but it is funny