How to Price Your Jobs So You Win Work and Still Make Money

Pricing is where many good pros lose money. Charge too little and you stay busy but broke. Charge too much without explaining why and homeowners pick someone else. Here is a simple way to get it right.

1. Know your real cost per hour

Add up everything it costs to run your business for a month: truck, fuel, insurance, tools, phone, software, advertising and your own pay. Divide by the hours you actually bill. That is the least you can charge per hour before you lose money.

2. Add materials and a margin

Price materials at what they really cost you, including trips to the store and waste. Then add a profit margin on top of the whole job, so the business can grow and handle slow months.

3. Set a minimum job

Small jobs still cost you a trip, setup and cleanup. A minimum charge keeps small jobs worth doing. On CSI Elite Services you can show your minimum job on your profile, so homeowners know before they ask.

4. Quote clearly

• List what is included, line by line.
• Say what is not included.
• Put an expiry date on the quote.
• Explain your warranty.

Clear quotes win more work, even when they are not the cheapest. CSI's free estimates tool lets you send professional estimates that customers accept online in one tap.

5. Compete on trust, not just price

Homeowners pay more for pros they trust. Reviews, a verified license and insurance, photos of your work and fast replies all help you win jobs without cutting your price.