I'm currently working on my first freelance project with a local small business, creating a web app for them. Despite not being highly experienced, I'm helping them out because the owners are really nice. They offered to pay me $1,000 total, with $500 for the minimum viable product (MVP) and the rest upon completion. However, the owner repeatedly emphasized how she thinks that's all the project is worth, which feels a bit condescending, considering the time and effort I'll have to put in. I want to know what others would charge for a project like this so I can better respond to my friends when they ask. Here's a brief rundown of the app's features:
- Calendar system for workers, including algorithm-driven routing and client info sheets.
- Scheduling for clients and events, with flags for missed appointments.
- Manager post options and a comprehensive client list with search features.
- An admin panel to track worker performance and comments on clients.
- Client-side features for creating profiles, messaging workers, and processing payments.
What do you think this app is worth?
5 Answers
As soon as I saw 'calendar', I thought at least $50k. The full scope of what she’s asking for could easily justify a $200k budget, especially with the ongoing maintenance that would come with it. If she's not willing to recognize the value, it's probably a red flag.
This app sounds pretty over-engineered for what they need. They might benefit more from workflow management consulting instead of a custom application. Make sure to clarify the value of what you’re offering, and don't hesitate to push back if they underestimate your work.
Dude, you're going to end up making like $2 an hour with that offer. In my experience, I wouldn’t even consider any freelance project unless it pays at least $40k. For the features you described, I’d estimate around $60k - $90k. I've seen others say $80k to $130k, which also sounds about right given the complexity.
I wouldn't touch this on principle. The way she's undermining your worth suggests she doesn’t truly understand the work involved. A project like this would typically require a whole team and a budget of at least $100k to $200k.
I didn't expect those figures! It makes me think I'm way underestimating the project.
Honestly, I wouldn't take on something like this for less than $40k. It's a complex project that really could run upwards of $130k, depending on how deep the features go. The client's comments about 'what you're worth' feel pretty disrespectful too; it sounds like they don't appreciate the time and expertise needed to build this kind of system.
Honestly, with everything you listed, even $50k feels like a bargain for what you're delivering.