Changing lawn care companies--recommendations (how much, unemployed, landscaping)

[capcat]

Ours is going up on rates, and we're searching for a reliable, insured company to provide standard lawn care...mow, edge, etc. We're near 2222 and Mopac. Any recommendations?

[Trainwreck20]

Don't know what rates you are paying, but I am very surprised that any company would be looking to raise rates right now.....you are sure to lose customers in this economic climate. Let em know that hteir current rates are fine, but otherwise, adios! and see what they say.

[Zzyzx]

Originally Posted by Trainwreck20

Don't know what rates you are paying, but I am very surprised that any company would be looking to raise rates right now.....you are sure to lose customers in this economic climate. Let em know that hteir current rates are fine, but otherwise, adios! and see what they say.

Very surprising indeed.
I have neighbors that are unemployed and are undercutting regular lawn care companies right now to keep a cash flow.

[capcat]

I am telling them adios. Rates will increase by 70% from what I have paid, which I considered an average amount.

[BentBow]

Originally Posted by capcat

I am telling them adios. Rates will increase by 70% from what I have paid, which I considered an average amount.

They have to raise rates to make a profit and stay in business.
Now in the age of the computer, it is the IRS finding the illegals and notifying ICE. Obama just signed for an audit for illegal aliens, namely Landscaping and Construction related companies.

So, they are having to actually pay what they should have all along. That cost gets transferred to the consumer. Ever worked for a week, and lost money, when it was all said and done?

[capcat]

Yeah, but there's just a limit to what you can charge for what amounts to an hour's worth of work, including travel. It's the same in my business, I can price myself out of work. I have to find ways to stay profitable and yet remain competitive.

[capcat]

btw...they are not illegal aliens nor an under the radar company. They are legit, but decided on an amazing increase in rates. I can do better with an equally legitimate company. Just thought maybe someone would have a rec, but have since looked through some past threads and found one that's much more reasonable.

[LoveATX]

I know of a local public servant who does lawns on his day off. He is inexpensive and reliable. PM me if you want the info.

[Trainwreck20]

Just out of curiosity, how much were you paying per service? When we had lawn care, it was $40 a visit, with mowing, edging, weeding, blowing, and trimming, and this was for a neighborhood lot, albeit a large corner lot with a lot of sidewalk to trim. I think they typically did $30-$35. We went through a lot of companies before settling on this one due to the higher quality of their work. If they did a 70% increase, that would be....$68? Yowch!

[capcat]

As of now, the service will be $85.00 per visit.