🧰 Start a Service Business in Jamaica · Lesson 3 of 8 · free
The pricing formula for services (time × rate + materials + margin), when to quote per job vs per hour, and why a deposit is the handshake.
Hours × your hourly rate + materials + travel + 20% margin. Your hourly rate must cover the hours you can't bill (quoting, driving, admin) — most people price too low because they forget those.
Per job for things you can scope (a clean, a shoot, a cake); per hour for open-ended work (repairs, consulting) with a written estimate first.
50% before work starts. It filters time-wasters, funds materials, and makes cancellations rare. Say it kindly and early.
Write your rate sheet with five services and prices. Add 'deposit required' to each.
A smart site that answers questions, takes bookings with deposits and sends reminders while you work. From J$35,000 + Bookings plan J$9,500/mo — Ezy Booking included.