Count the entire job, not just the visit
A 30-minute visit may also require travel, arranging keys, sending an owner update and preparing supplies. Include that unpaid time when deciding how many jobs fit into your schedule.
Determine a sustainable hourly target
Add your desired monthly pay, fixed business costs and a reserve for taxes and contingencies. Divide by billable hours, not total hours available. For example, a 600-unit monthly target across 40 billable hours calls for 15 units per hour before variable costs. This is arithmetic, not a market quote.
Add direct expenses
Estimate transport, parking, approved supplies and payment-processing fees. Multi-pet households or unusual travel times may require an additional charge.
Separate service types
Build clear prices for short visits, longer visits, walks and overnight care. Spell out what is included, so clients can compare offerings without hidden surprises.
Review profitability every month
Compare the actual time and cost of each service with the amount collected. If one route repeatedly loses money, revisit your service area, travel fee or minimum booking value.