The Commonplace Expectation of $100 Massage/$200 Escort?

[AndyDandy]

I have never and would never try to negotiate a rate down.  There are too many masseurs out there.  If you can't find one you can afford, you probably shouldn't be looking for a massage.  And, IMO, a provider should never lower their rate for a first time client.

[+ sync]

10 hours ago, Jarrod_Uncut said:

That was a driving factor from the start

I’ll also add: this isn’t just coming from RentMen but especially RentMasseur. I understand that technically people may be going to RentMasseur expecting “just a massage”. But I also wonder if it’s more to do with the venue. It seems the “general” (not all) RentMasseur clients expect a certain price point of the $150/$200 range or less. However, RentMasseur does not make any claims to be ONLY massages. Thats why there’s erotic, therapeutic and sensual options. Thats why there are private nude galleries. 

The lines are very blurred, and I wonder if that contributes to the misunderstandings of some.
 

 

I was moreso using an exaggeration. When I said that, I meant: “I don’t want to spend my money eating out, everyday”. But I actually do eat out a fair amount, and if you see my body: I’m definitely not starving by any means 💪🏾 But I don’t always have the funds to allocate towards a sit down restaurant meal, especially since I’m trying to relocate, and a $75 meal: I rather spend $90 on a couple shirts: which I did couple weeks ago when I was in Minneapolis of America.

Besides, where do you come off talking about needing a different career path? I didn’t say: “I don’t have any money to go out to eat”. I said afford, but I have known people who make 3x what I make, driving BMWs and living in luxury apartments who go to Taco Bell and barely have anything in the fridge.

I’ve known people in the military: who do meal prep because they can’t afford to eat out but once a week. Does that warrant a career change?

Sometimes it takes a bit of cognitive thinking to understand what someone is saying, versus just blurting out whatever you think is the reason for the statement made.
 

And don’t get me wrong: I’m not saying there’s anything WRONG with $150/$200. I actually took a $100 booking earlier this month: the dude looked like Usher. He was sexy AF, but he was just an easy going client and only wanted a massage. I wasn’t mad at him for it.

My thing is moreso on a general big scale. I rather someone say they have $100 and just need a massage, versus someone asking for my rates and then saying it’s too much. Well, you asked? If a client is willing to contact a provider to ask what a rate is: they should be willing to compromise and give. To shoot them down and say otherwise: ESPECIALLY when I have my own website that lists my rates, is where the annoyance comes in.

And the other thing: if a client is going to say a rate is too much or they can’t afford: I feel if they really wanted to make it happen they can counteroffer. That way I can say yes or no or give a reason why I can’t do that price point: but can be willing to do a different price point similar.

 

I know you got a lot of “reactions” to that, but I’ll explain to you and anyone else who cheered you on, why. Read very carefully:

#1: I’m not unhappy with the Business. I’m unhappy if I’m NOT getting the business, in cases where I should or have before.

#2: It’s nothing to do with being unhappy. It’s simply discussing a common scenario and asking how it could be changed

#3: I’m happier dealing with SERIOUS clients who are willing to compromise, versus using hookup apps and being caught up in an endless string of meaningless hookups with guys who don’t care to contribute anything going on in my life.

#4: Guys I’ve met through advertising on RM: are a different breed than many of the gay dudes I come across in bars, apps, or via friends. Like “someone” said during a press interview earlier this month: I love my clients and they love me 🤣 

#5: I don’t always have to haggle on my rates because most of my bookings are $250+ anyway, however: again, just talking in general. 

Just to clarify, all or most of your posts consist of incessant rantings concerning the negotiating of your fees with potential clients.  Any small business person will tell you that is a downside that comes with the territory. 

You go on to state that you have budget concerns then go on to state that you are doing well financially. 

It is your struggle with consumer relations that prompted me to suggest considering an alternative career path.

The decision, of course, is yours alone.  If I may be so bold, I suggest you compose a standard, brief, non-toxic refusal, as some other providers have done, which will quickly end the conversation.

[Thelatin]

7 hours ago, BenjaminNicholas said:

When someone attempts to set my rate for me, I just ignore them.

Exactly - there is a guy in my line of work constantly complaining about how he’s always mistreated, and how he’s also the smartest guy in every situation.   You’d think he would just set clear guidelines for what he expects in a business relationship and strictly adhere to his rules.   Instead he gets in over his skis, becomes angry, and then relentlessly trolls anyone he had issues with. 

[marylander1940]

4 hours ago, AndyDandy said:

I have never and would never try to negotiate a rate down.  There are too many masseurs out there.  If you can't find one you can afford, you probably shouldn't be looking for a massage.  And, IMO, a provider should never lower their rate for a first time client.

I couldn't agree with you more! Unfortunately some see getting a discount as a badge of honor, they brag about it on here if all places.

It's like paying with a coupon that must be presented while ordering, you know you're going to get more rice and potatoes...

[marylander1940]

21 hours ago, DrownedBoy said:

That's it. Both sides need to follow the local market.

You can pay as low as 100/150 an hour and make both sides happy. In my experience, that limits your choices to:

- white trash in middle-of-nowhere rural areas

- escorts in economically depressed urban areas with little means of transportation 

- older and less attractive escorts

- refugees who can't speak English 

 

If you're willing to settle for that, have at it. But don't expect much better.

In the first category you forgot to say "next to a meth lab" 😂 or "desperate with a baby mama".

Edited September 25, 2024 by marylander1940

[+ DrownedBoy]

2 hours ago, marylander1940 said:

In the first category you forgot to say "next to a meth lab" 😂 or "desperate with a baby mama".

Nah. The meth guy just ran away with the money 😁

[+ StLouisOct]

My city is expensive and for the past several years I am perfectly happy with rates of $300 1 hour and $500 for 2. It seems reasonable in my market. I’ve had several situations where I’ve been quoted $600/2 and I’ve wished them well because it’s beyond my limit. More often than not they’ve responded that $500 will work. Some may think these rates are too high, but just about all of them (correctly) treat escorting as a business and they’re providing quality service.
I’ve read horror stories about bad experiences with dishonest or creepy guys. I haven’t experienced that with the RM guys I’ve hired. I haven’t rehired several, but that was usually because we weren’t a good personality fit.

[TallMuscl37]

On 9/25/2024 at 10:31 AM, sync said:

Just to clarify, all or most of your posts consist of incessant rantings concerning the negotiating of your fees with potential clients.  Any small business person will tell you that is a downside that comes with the territory. 

You go on to state that you have budget concerns then go on to state that you are doing well financially. 

It is your struggle with consumer relations that prompted me to suggest considering an alternative career path.

The decision, of course, is yours alone.  If I may be so bold, I suggest you compose a standard, brief, non-toxic refusal, as some other providers have done, which will quickly end the conversation.

Just because it “comes with the territory” doesn’t mean I can’t bring it up. It’s not incessant ranting, it’s having a discussion about something. If that’s problematic for you, then I’m sorry YOU allowed yourself to feel that way. You’re welcome to excuse yourself.
 

I do feel the $100/$200 expectation is a widely held “belief” out there. However, I’ve seen the biz over the years, and I’ve seen how things have changed. $200 was okay when there were several platforms to advertise on, and getting 4-5 clients a week in THE SAME CITY was attainable. However, with everything that’s happened with inflation and website restrictions, along with hookup apps being a primary go to: things aren’t as busy for everybody. 
 

That said, the particular situation I was referring to: the guy was a flake anyway. I recently met a client who happily paid our agreement and all was well. 

 

5 hours ago, StLouisOct said:

My city is expensive and for the past several years I am perfectly happy with rates of $300 1 hour and $500 for 2. It seems reasonable in my market. I’ve had several situations where I’ve been quoted $600/2 and I’ve wished them well because it’s beyond my limit. More often than not they’ve responded that $500 will work. Some may think these rates are too high, but just about all of them (correctly) treat escorting as a business and they’re providing quality service.
I’ve read horror stories about bad experiences with dishonest or creepy guys. I haven’t experienced that with the RM guys I’ve hired. I haven’t rehired several, but that was usually because we weren’t a good personality fit.

That’s close to what I’m asking. However it is interesting that a $100 difference on a $500 session would persuade you. Not saying you’re in the wrong, but I have seen situations where I may have needed to ask for an extra $100: whether that be longer travel or booking a room for a particular session. Many have been okay to cover it. 
 

I try to be reasonable rate wise, because I don’t like to have to double back on prices. But I’ve also structured by sessions to give people options. That’s why anytime someone asks, “what’s your rate?” I’m never going to give them 1 price ever. At least not anymore. 1 price for everything makes no sense to me, no matter how easy it SEEMS. Sure I could just say $250. Or $300. But for what? How am I supposed to name a price when I don’t even know what I’m getting into? That’s why I like to offer options. 
 

I also will ask for minimums for certain sessions. Like if I have to travel an hour to a particular area near where I’m staying: it’s a 90 minute or 2 hour minimum. Because I’m already spending two hours to get there and back. If I have to get a hotel to host, it may be an extra $100 to offset that. 

[jmichaeliii]

2 hours ago, Jarrod_Uncut said:

Just because it “comes with the territory” doesn’t mean I can’t bring it up. It’s not incessant ranting, it’s having a discussion about something. If that’s problematic for you, then I’m sorry YOU allowed yourself to feel that way. You’re welcome to excuse yourself.
 

I do feel the $100/$200 expectation is a widely held “belief” out there. However, I’ve seen the biz over the years, and I’ve seen how things have changed. $200 was okay when there were several platforms to advertise on, and getting 4-5 clients a week in THE SAME CITY was attainable. However, with everything that’s happened with inflation and website restrictions, along with hookup apps being a primary go to: things aren’t as busy for everybody. 
 

That said, the particular situation I was referring to: the guy was a flake anyway. I recently met a client who happily paid our agreement and all was well. 

 

That’s close to what I’m asking. However it is interesting that a $100 difference on a $500 session would persuade you. Not saying you’re in the wrong, but I have seen situations where I may have needed to ask for an extra $100: whether that be longer travel or booking a room for a particular session. Many have been okay to cover it. 
 

I try to be reasonable rate wise, because I don’t like to have to double back on prices. But I’ve also structured by sessions to give people options. That’s why anytime someone asks, “what’s your rate?” I’m never going to give them 1 price ever. At least not anymore. 1 price for everything makes no sense to me, no matter how easy it SEEMS. Sure I could just say $250. Or $300. But for what? How am I supposed to name a price when I don’t even know what I’m getting into? That’s why I like to offer options. 
 

I also will ask for minimums for certain sessions. Like if I have to travel an hour to a particular area near where I’m staying: it’s a 90 minute or 2 hour minimum. Because I’m already spending two hours to get there and back. If I have to get a hotel to host, it may be an extra $100 to offset that. 

I'm somewhat new to this, but when I ask someone to travel to me and it's an hour + drive, I always pay the hotel to host and I always book at least 2 hours.  I guess maybe that's why I can get several to make the trip to me.  And that's fine.  Driving around where I live can be a hassle and I'd rather be at the hotel released and ready to go.  

[+ StLouisOct]

On 10/2/2024 at 11:19 PM, Jarrod_Uncut said:

Just because it “comes with the territory” doesn’t mean I can’t bring it up. It’s not incessant ranting, it’s having a discussion about something. If that’s problematic for you, then I’m sorry YOU allowed yourself to feel that way. You’re welcome to excuse yourself.
 

I do feel the $100/$200 expectation is a widely held “belief” out there. However, I’ve seen the biz over the years, and I’ve seen how things have changed. $200 was okay when there were several platforms to advertise on, and getting 4-5 clients a week in THE SAME CITY was attainable. However, with everything that’s happened with inflation and website restrictions, along with hookup apps being a primary go to: things aren’t as busy for everybody. 
 

That said, the particular situation I was referring to: the guy was a flake anyway. I recently met a client who happily paid our agreement and all was well. 

 

That’s close to what I’m asking. However it is interesting that a $100 difference on a $500 session would persuade you. Not saying you’re in the wrong, but I have seen situations where I may have needed to ask for an extra $100: whether that be longer travel or booking a room for a particular session. Many have been okay to cover it. 
 

I try to be reasonable rate wise, because I don’t like to have to double back on prices. But I’ve also structured by sessions to give people options. That’s why anytime someone asks, “what’s your rate?” I’m never going to give them 1 price ever. At least not anymore. 1 price for everything makes no sense to me, no matter how easy it SEEMS. Sure I could just say $250. Or $300. But for what? How am I supposed to name a price when I don’t even know what I’m getting into? That’s why I like to offer options. 
 

I also will ask for minimums for certain sessions. Like if I have to travel an hour to a particular area near where I’m staying: it’s a 90 minute or 2 hour minimum. Because I’m already spending two hours to get there and back. If I have to get a hotel to host, it may be an extra $100 to offset that. 

When I introduce myself to a potential escort I provide enough detail so the guy has a good description of me and the kind of session I’m looking for, which is pretty vanilla.  As a result, he can be comfortable with me and the price.

Edited October 4, 2024 by StLouisOct

[TallMuscl37]

I made a post about this similar awhile ago, but I wanted to discuss it again:

I feel $150/$200 seems to be a common entry level offer for many. Especially among the erotic massage platforms (and I’m toying with whether I want to continue advertising on those) But specifically: I understand $150 seems to be a common “magic” number.

I feel many guys will say yes to a $150 rate, especially on sites like Adam 4 Adam and Hookup apps. Personally, I’m not a fan of that number. But I also understand $300-$400-$500 isn’t always attainable on a regular basis in all markets. For example, last night I had an offer for $150. Normally I would not consider it, but it was just a vanilla massage type of visit and his location was easy to get to, I was in the area, and it wasn’t a whole lot of effort. I wasn’t too bothered, plus my area as I’ve said before: is dead. It’s been dead. The only client I’ve gotten in over 2 weeks, was a returning guy visiting from SoCal.

Sometimes I feel: maybe if I do a few $150 sessions, it might put me in a position to take care of some temporary goals. Or it can help fill hours that I’m in a hotel, when the $300/$400 clients aren’t booking.

At the same time, I feel $150 could end up being full on escort services…and next thing, someone is tricked into thinking that’s all they should charge. And that’s a slippery slope because, I find 150 guys don’t even come around as often as I’d expect. I’ve done stuff for 150, as an entry level offer and then they still don’t become regulars.

I’m just curious, where did $150 as a common rate come from? I’m grateful that I usually get booked for sessions more than that, but the crazy economy has made the slow times far more these past couple years. Some cities, one can be quiet trying to charge $300, but might get a few at $100/$150.

That said: someone who’s been on the game as long as I have and tour to other cities: $150 even for vanilla stuff, doesn’t feel sustainable. I’d have to push myself to do a high volume of clients…and that’s a lot. I told myself last year, $250 is really the lowest I feel comfortable asking…$200 is okay, but by the time I either get a hotel, or gas up: I don’t even see $200, I see less than that. That’s why $250 has been my baseline for awhile, and I feel my higher level sessions are worth exactly what all I do and offer during a visit. 
 

I’m not just providing a bed and a bottle of lube…its much more than that.

Edited December 5, 2024 by TallMuscl37

[+ Jamie21]

I have thoughts on this. If you’d like them my charge is $10.

Sorry @TallMuscl37 but I couldn’t resist. I mean it kindly. 

[+ PhileasFogg]

$150 is $150 more than you’d have if you do nothing.  All else equal, like transportation distance etc.

$150 is a gateway to regulars.   When your available time is so booked from regulars that you have no room for more clients, then you have a commodity to barter with.  That’s when you raise prices to maximize value on your time and make more doing less   

So the question is, would you rather do two clients a day for $150 each and make $1,500/wk to cover fixed costs, or wait in hope that someone will fly in from SoCal by chance.  But if you wait, you may have made $3,000 in those two weeks AND still had the time for fun with the guy from SoCal.

i come across a lot of folks (in many skills and trades) who say my time is worth $x.   Unfortunately, until other people know they’re worth $x, then they’re not getting the calls.  A decade ago, my half brother, a tradesman, once said “I will only work for $50/hr.”   I guess that’s why he’s 54 yrs old and living with his father with plenty of time on his hands  

just my two cents…

And btw…STL is not a wasteland….its just full of guys who will do basic stuff (or more) for $150.  The market sets the price AND the expectation of “value for the money”…that capitalism.    In my retirement, I consult for $150/hr.  I’m booked full time with a six month backlog.  Now’s the time for me to raise prices.   And I’ll sent you a bill for $37.50 for the 15 minutes I spent on this consultation…😉

Edited December 5, 2024 by PhileasFogg

[+ nycman]

5 hours ago, TallMuscl37 said:

I wasn’t too bothered

[Beancounter]

Mocha…….Jarrod…….Tallmuscl37.  Do I have this correct?

[topunderachiever]

3 hours ago, Beancounter said:

Mocha…….Jarrod…….Tallmuscl37.  Do I have this correct?

Please, please don't scare him away. 

He brings intrigue to the board and we'd miss his sometimes bewildering perspective.  

Edited December 5, 2024 by topunderachiever

[Beancounter]

I’m not trying to scare him away.  I just like to know whom I’m dealing with.  

[+ ApexNomad]

On 9/25/2024 at 10:28 AM, pubic_assistance said:

Totally agree.

I would never negotiate a rate downward.

It gives a VERY bad impression of me and that will definitely affect the relationship with a provider.

I don't understand why certain people can't understand that. All you have to do is THINK in reverse roles. Put YOURSELF in the provider's position and ask yourself if YOU would want people tell you "you're not worth it" ?

I completely agree with this! I have never, and will never, negotiate a rate with a provider. It’s bad form. If you don’t agree with their pricing, simply walk away. How can you expect to get their best work if you don’t respect the value they’ve quoted?  Not only can negotiating affect the relationship, but it can also jeopardize their performance. Honor their pricing—and their expertise—and let them do their job. Even if a session isn’t to my liking, I’ve never haggled at the end. Never!

[+ ApexNomad]

17 hours ago, TallMuscl37 said:

I’m not just providing a bed and a bottle of lube…it’s much more than that.

You’re absolutely right!! From a business standpoint, it’s important to understand the value you’re providing—not just the physical service, but the ENTIRE experience. Sometimes clients seek more than just physical intimacy, especially when they’re looking for companionship or emotional comfort. For example, I suffer from migraines, and one night (many nights in fact), rather than cancel or just because, I ended up just lying in the arms of the provider in a dark hotel room. There was no sex—just the comfort of being cared for. Many of these providers actually refused to let me pay them their full rate, but I insisted, because that’s not only how I operate, but I am paying for HIS TIME.

In a competitive field, positioning yourself as a premium provider with a baseline rate that reflects your expertise and time is essential. If $250 feels sustainable for you and reflects the quality of service you provide, then that should be your baseline. But only you will know that!

Setting clear boundaries with your pricing upfront is key because clients who truly value both what you offer and the experience you provide will respect your rates. Those are the kinds of clients who are more likely to return and appreciate the full value of the service.

As a client, I always appreciate when someone sets their pricing firmly. It shows they value their time and expertise, and that makes the experience feel more professional and worth the investment. When I book with someone, I expect to pay what they believe their service is worth because that’s how I know I’m getting the best they have to offer.

By sticking to your rates, you’re not only attracting the right clients who recognize the value you’re providing, but you’re also protecting yourself from burnout. The pressure to take on lower-paying clients just to fill time can be exhausting and ultimately unsustainable.

[NJF]

7 hours ago, Beancounter said:

Mocha…….Jarrod…….Tallmuscl37.  Do I have this correct?

You might have missed some pre-Mocha ones 😂 

[Daaron0104]

On 9/25/2024 at 10:55 AM, jmichaeliii said:

I DMd you

Me2, please! 

[Simon Suraci]

6 hours ago, Beancounter said:

I’m not trying to scare him away.  I just like to know whom I’m dealing with.  

I’m laughing out loud after spending a solid minute considering what, if anything could possibly scare him away. Or any of his personas/accounts, really.

Can I phone a friend?

Love you, Jarrod. At least you’re consistent, no matter who you’re posting as. We can always count on your complaining to spark up a lively and entertaining, if unproductive, exchange!

[Ali Gator]

Quote

It’s amusing, that a guy will take his dog to the vet, spend $700, $800, $1,000 and not think twice. Yet tell them its $400 for an hour of everything under the sun: suddenly I’m “too expensive or they can’t afford it”. 

Really ? You find a guy who needs to take his helpless dog to the vet (probably for emergency services) and spend up to $1,000 as 'amusing' ?  As a pet owner who would do anything for my dog, I can assure you 'amusing' is not what it is. 

And you want to compare yourself and your fees to the vet visit ?  You have that kind of undeserved self-importance ? 

It's time you found a new line of work. This really is no longer for you. 

[MiamiLooker]

4 hours ago, NJF said:

You might have missed some pre-Mocha ones 😂 

Jabari Blaine?
Joey Bryant?

[BuffaloKyle]

8 hours ago, Beancounter said:

I’m not trying to scare him away.  I just like to know whom I’m dealing with.  

Yes he changed his profile name. If you go onto someone's profile page next to their current name will be a little reverse arrow to click and see any past usernames and the day they changed it.