Fertilizing Rates?

[qualitylandscaping]

I'm starting to give quotes for fert. applications. Here are my rates.. Let me know what you think before I submit any..

1/8 acre (5,445sqft) : $40
1/4 acre (10,890sqft): $45
3/8 acre (16,335sqft): $50
1/2 acre (21,780sqft): $55
5/8 acre (27,225sqft): $60
3/4 acre (32,670sqft): $65
7/8 acre (38,115sqft): $70
1 acre (43,560sqft): $75

I'm buying Lesco fertilizer which costs approx $13.50 for a 12,500sqft bag. This is all granular fert, no liquid. Will be applied with walk behind broadcast spreaders..
Thanks!

[qualitylandscaping]

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forgot to mention labor and fertilizer are included in the price..

I've been reading through the price guidelines and noticed, my rates look very low? The competition around here is very close to the rates I listed.. Since there are over 150 companies within 40 miles of me, it is very competitive around here.

[mariner]

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Some of them prices seem low. Try $25 base charge and anywhere from $2.50-$3.00 per 1000 sq ft. It is very competitive around me too but people are willing to pay for the job getting done right. I have a bunch of customers that I'm charging more than their last company charged them. I tell them that they are paying a little more money for a lot more quality. They usually don't even argue anymore after that statement.

[qualitylandscaping]

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Mariner,

What size lawn would you charge $25 for? I think you are saying don't do any application for under $25 (like mowing) and then when do you start the increase?

[mariner]

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$25 would be for 2000 sq ft and under. I use a $24 base and 3.00 per 1000 sq ft 3- 4000 sq ft and $24 base and $2.50 per 1000 sq ft over 4000 sq ft. Commercial properties are $3.00 per 1000 sq ft and I waive the $24 base charge. It works weel for me. I'm at competition or slightly lower depending on the area. If I'm a little higher or the customer orders multiple services from me, I'll go as low as $2.00 per 1000 sq ft. The fertilizer business is a game. You have to know your costs in order to play.

[qualitylandscaping]

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Thanks Mariner.. I appreciate it![]

[mariner]

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No problem Buddy. Any time.

[mariner]

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I don't do the 3.00 per 1000 sq ft for commercial anymore. I'm sticking with 2.50 per 1000 sq ft over 4000 sq ft and keeping the $24 base. I'm finding that i'm getting a little low without adding the base. I play with numbers all day. I just make sure that I get what I need when it comes to the final price.

[qualitylandscaping]

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ok, I'll keep that in mind Mariner..

I came up with a faster way, but I don't know if it will be cost effective for me yet.. Cut price x 10 for 4-step program..