letting a job go!!!

[mikosiko]

I hated to let my very first bid for a job go, but this was one of those I felt was not in my best interests. I would like as much weigh in as possible from as many of you willing to. This job was over 43,000sqft of property mowing and about 2,000 ft of trimming/edging. I am just starting out and I am bound and determined to not be in debt to start out. I have my truck, a commercial push Honda, Ryobi trimmer/edger, and a Husky backpack blower(450fpm). This job involved 1 quarter acre property and 5 various properties right together. I would have to travel once a week 20 miles to get to the large one and then travel an additional 20 miles every two weeks to get to the others. I was competing against a $650.00 per month bid and I just didnt see it less than $850.00 for me. I just dont feel with all the trimming and then having just a small 21" mower for the large one that my time and effort after taxes and other costs, that I was going to be justifiably compensated. The prospective customer told me that the other mower would do the smaller properties for $200.00 every other week and his large lawn $60.00 per week. This sounded like the one to let go because I do not have a large enough mower to put the time where I felt I needed it. Tell me about your thoughts on this. Was it the same decision you would have made, if not then why.

 

[mowerman05]

I dont travel more than 8 miles in any direction from home right now, but would be willing to go maybe 10 or 12 for a really great paying job. theres more than enough work close to home for me even with all the competiton, about 15 companys. You just need to do a great job , be respectful, look presentable and be fair, work will come your way. after the first lawn they seem to just blossom. good luck and keep bidding

 

[mikosiko]

Thanks, I'll keep rolling right along. Gonna start closer to home thats for sure. :thumbsup: