Hi all, I am new to the business and need some HELP. How do you know what to charge so you get the job and not scare the customer away? I dont want to work for nothing, just want to make a living. Any help or advice is welcome and appreciated.

When i first started i was charging any where from $20-$25 for residental and $35-$45 for commercial per hour. Which include trimming all truf areas inaccessible to mower with line trimmer, and blowing clippings off side walks and drive ways. Let the customer know what is include in the price, so it seems you are doing alot for that price. I would also check around and see what other lawn care business are charging, so it gives you an idea on what to charge. Once you have established enough accounts, then you can charge what you feel is fare and make more money doing it. Hope this helps.

Yes that helps. That is in the ball park of what I was Thinking. Thanks for the reinforcement. Double G

Things you have to look at of course.

Time, Time, Time!
Drive Time, Time to unload and reload Equipment, Time on the Job.
How Much Gasoline Truck and Equipment used.
How much Weedeating, and Edging is invovled. (If you do these)
If bagging, the time it takes to put the clippings in Trash Bags and take them to the street or truck.
Factor in some time to speak with the customer. (If they will be there)

Lots of Factors, but you will come up with a system.
(maybe hourly rate to cover everything)

If trimming bushes maybe price per bush depending on size.
($5 per bush to $100-$150 for really large bushes maybe even more)
If mulching maybe price per cubic yard of mulch.
($50 to $80 per cubic yard)

Most of all you know in your mind what you think is truly fair for both parties invovled. Go with that, experience it, and learn.

Maybe this will help???

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Perfect Lawn Services

there's a great thread on this site under the commercial part that I've found useful and given my 2 cents at. Hope this helps. Click Here http://lawnforum.com/showthread.php?t=9

TAKE IT FOR WHAT ITS WORTH I CHARGE 1.00 A MINUTE 20 MINUTE YARD COST 20.00 DOLLARS 30 MINUTE YARD COST 30 DOLLARS

Achtung!!