cleaning houses

[Carrie772]

Neato Kimmo, the problem is, I would be totally wiped out if I cleaned 40 hrs a week. I can only stand 4 hours of this kind of labor. After that, I just veg out and drink coke while watching reruns of ER before I feel better!

 

[fa mulan]

$15 an hour might be too low for you. If I was doing this, I'd call Merry Maids (or the equivalent in your area) and ask for a quote on a 3200 sq. foot house.

In my neighborhood a 4000 sq. foot house goes for $125 or more (probably for about 4 hours cleaning) -that's more than double what you'd be charging!!

Wish you were in my area!!

 

[kileybeth]

oh yeah! for $15 an hour I'm having you come every single week and stay for 3 hours, and fixing you lunch! beverages complimentary of course! and sue? no way, I'll give it to you in writing!

can't touch that rate here in the great north east. and I'm not in a big city, just a 'burb of a midsize one!

ditto on the insurance thing. liscensed and insured all the way for both you and homeowner. senario: bucket of hot bleach water from scrubbing kitchen floor really well spills on new wall to wall carpet in adjacent family room. can not be corrected at all so homeowner gets new carpet for whole 20x20 foot room, it does happen no matter how careful you are.

 

[kate]

In my area, the going rates for an individual to clean is $10.00 per hour or $30- $40 per house (homeowner providing the supplies). Yes, Merry Maids, etc does charge more, however, they are also bonded and send a crew (not just one individual).

Regarding supplies: personally, I would rather furnish my own supplies. I have asthma. If I provide the products then I know what is coming into my house.

Regarding what to charge: I guess a key issue is: how much money and time (or skill) does one need to invest for their career - and what is it worth to the public. Supply and demand...

Good luck in whatever you do.