[beejhuff]

Generally there are two approaches:

1) Hourly (most common) - determine what the standard rate is per hour for this kind of work in your area, then charge that, making an allowance (read: discount) for your level of skill. This may or may not be done using a "fixed price" estimate, meaning you will charge for X number of hours no matter how long it actually takes you. I'm not in your area, but my guess is that the fair market value of these services is probably in the $75-$150 range, depending on your level of expertise.

2) Value - determine the fair market value of the final output to the client and base your rate upon that estimate. This is more difficult and prone to be influenced by factors you may not be aware of (ie, if this person's relative implemented the site for free, they may attach an unreasonable expectation of value to the proposed change).

As I have progressed in my freelancing career I have found that one of the first set questions I always ask after having the client explain a request to me are:

1. What is your budget. Making them start off the conversation about cost helps set expectations and allows me to immediately reject the request if their expectations are out of line with both the fair market value and my other active projects.

2. What is your timetable. When a client needs a request done quickly and I have to reschedule already planned work to acommodate their request, I charge a premium for a rush job. This is analogous to the way such requests are handled in other media segments like print, video, and audio production.

[hanniabu]

I really like your last 2 points. I also think having them start off the money conversation so you don't undercut yourself by thinking they may not take you if you charge too much. The last point is also great as it enables them the option to possibly earn you more money.

Thanks for commenting beejhuff