2018: Will this be the year of raising or lowering rates for you?

[Mocha]

Back to the original topic:

 

As other sites have been eliminated, rates are not being displayed, and others migrating from CL and BP. It seems to stand that along with it, people are expecting rates that may be lower than what am escort chooses to command.

 

I had put my rates up to $250 once I turned 30 last year. I find it works well in many larger markets However, I can agree with another provider I spoke with, that $150 seems to be a no fuss rate in most markets. At the same time, with the expenses I have, I would personally prefer to stay at or above $200.

 

Does anyone feel that by taking their rates down, even if temporarily....would help reach a wider base?

 

Right now, with so many different factors going on, I’m feeling that I need to pull away from $250, and revert back to $200 for markets outside of DC and similar wealthy areas. I know my worth, and I’ve made the $400, 500, 1,200. But at the same time, I rather be fuss free about my rates, rather than having to each time feel I either have to lower or explain why it’s the price I set it to.

Edited June 6, 2018 by Mocha

[+ freecahill1965]

As a client, I am not sure how to respond. I do not negotiate price with an escort. If an escorts states $400. I just say thank you for getting back to me just as a courtesy. If they come back with a lower price, I just pass. On the other hand, there are a few hot escorts I see who charge less. Trust me, they could get more. @latbear4blk has taught me there are great rates to be found. When they are great, I book for multiple hours each time because it is a bargain price when they could easily be charging more. We all want the best experience possible for the best rate. I think a compromise is to offer multihour rates of some sort. Assuming $250 was an inital hour rate, charge $250 for one hour and $400 for two hours $500 for three. If a clients does not want to pay those decreasing prices, you probably do not want to deal with them any ways.

Edited June 6, 2018 by freecahill1965

[Mocha]

I’ve always had rates for multi-hour sessions. And quite similar to what you’ve mentioned. Here’s a quick read article, though I’m finding it hard to believe what this woman is actually saying:

 

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.entrepreneur.com/amphtml/273955

 

Thing is, multi hour rates are doable for some...but if people are saying they only have $150..doing a multi-hour rate for $400 isn’t necessarily going to change their mind. People who want to pay $150 are doing so usually because they want a guy to come in and go within an hour or so. They’re not trying to spend much more time than that.

 

Personally though, I would prefer to stay at 200, if I do have to drop from 250. I’ve found $150 clients usually are the most pushy, aggressive, and flaky. Or you give them the sesaion dor $150, but then they never come around again. One guy, I even agreed to $150, and he only left me $80. I almost yanked him back up the elevator.

 

Or you get the regulars who keep you at $150 for LIFE. Regardless of how much work you put into. One guy in Tampa, I told him I won’t do $150 for him anymore because when I drive from Orlando, it takes 1.5 hour there plus his 1 hour massage appointment that turns into 90 minutes after he chats about how lavish his life is, and the 1.5 hour back. Over 4 hours of time for $150. He got mad, and I blocked him.

 

 

As a client, I am not sure how to respond. I do not negotiate price with an escort. If an escorts states $400. I just say thank you for getting back to me just as a courtesy. If they come back with a lower price, I just pass. On the other hand, there are a few hot escorts I see who charge $200. Trust me, they could get more. @latbear4blk has taught me there are great rates to be found. When they are great, I book for multiple hours each time because it is a bargain price when they could easily be charging more. We all want the best experience possible for the best rate. I think a compromise is to offer multihour rates of some sort. Assuming $250 was an inital hour rate, charge $250 for one hour and $400 for two hours $500 for three. If a clients does not want to pay those decreasing prices, you probably do not want to deal with them any ways.

[+ freecahill1965]

I’ve always had rates for multi-hour sessions. And quite similar to what you’ve mentioned. Here’s a quick read article, though I’m finding it hard to believe what this woman is actually saying:

 

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.entrepreneur.com/amphtml/273955

 

Thing is, multi hour rates are doable for some...but if people are saying they only have $150..doing a multi-hour rate for $400 isn’t necessarily going to change their mind. People who want to pay $150 are doing so usually because they want a guy to come in and go within an hour or so. They’re not trying to spend much more time than that.

 

Personally though, I would prefer to stay at 200, if I do have to drop from 250. I’ve found $150 clients usually are the most pushy, aggressive, and flaky. Or you give them the sesaion dor $150, but then they never come around again. One guy, I even agreed to $150, and he only left me $80. I almost yanked him back up the elevator.

 

Or you get the regulars who keep you at $150 for LIFE. Regardless of how much work you put into. One guy in Tampa, I told him I won’t do $150 for him anymore because when I drive from Orlando, it takes 1.5 hour there plus his 1 hour massage appointment that turns into 90 minutes after he chats about how lavish his life is, and the 1.5 hour back. Over 4 hours of time for $150. He got mad, and I blocked him.

Yeah, I would agree $150 for a hot session is a bit low but I suppose it depends on the demographics of the state. I find escorts in Texas and Atlanta are way less expensive for the same service compared to the Boston area.

[instudiocity]

Or you get the regulars who keep you at $150 for LIFE. Regardless of how much work you put into. One guy in Tampa, I told him I won’t do $150 for him anymore because when I drive from Orlando, it takes 1.5 hour there plus his 1 hour massage appointment that turns into 90 minutes after he chats about how lavish his life is, and the 1.5 hour back. Over 4 hours of time for $150. He got mad, and I blocked him.

Congratulations, you've finally figured out cheapskates come from all economic circumstances... those that have the money to pay and don't are just as bad as those who don't have the money to hire yet still hire. Edited June 6, 2018 by instudiocity

[+ VictorPowers]

Nope.

[Pulgasari1991]

Or you get the regulars who keep you at $150 for LIFE. Regardless of how much work you put into. One guy in Tampa, I told him I won’t do $150 for him anymore because when I drive from Orlando, it takes 1.5 hour there plus his 1 hour massage appointment that turns into 90 minutes after he chats about how lavish his life is, and the 1.5 hour back. Over 4 hours of time for $150. He got mad, and I blocked him.

Did you have a different pricing back then? Since you quote 200-250/hr

[+ BenjaminNicholas]

Nope.

 

Bingo.

 

Those who can, do.

 

Those who can't, adjust their rates.

[Mocha]

Nope.

 

Bingo.

 

Those who can, do.

 

Those who can't, adjust their rates.

 

Well let me just say, it’s not about can or cannot. And I know you trying to be smart and refer to me as “those”. Don’t gettit confused.

 

The reason why I stopped seeing the 150 client, is because I was being called over to a different area of town being given 350 each time. So I was like screw that, this MoFo doesn’t want to give me a penny over 150 ever, yet this other guy is giving me 350 to go to the same area...EVERY time I go out there. Other guys were matching it as well.

 

Also, this could just be a temporary reaction to what I’m experiencing in the particular area I’m visiting in...as it’s not a Washington DC market per say. Like I said, 250 is universal there. But However, 200 seems to be getting a lot more yes for me outside of that area. 250 seems to create extra conversation where there shouldn’t, but that’s only recently begun.

 

If anything, I may just go ahead and see how a new rate strategy would work for me. At the same time, I would be dismayed to be in a position where lowering rates does nothing but equate to making less across the board e.g. a $50 drop translates to $200 missing across 4 clients. However, I think the additional clients will make up from that.

[Mocha]

Did you have a different pricing back then? Since you quote 200-250/hr

 

Well, he was one of the few clients I still remained in touch with back when I used massage m4m/massuerfinder and who later would see me on men4rent.

 

So, it was a massage session price..but the visits had an escorty vibe to it. Yet it was vanilla enough that I was okay with it. However, the sessions would frequently and randomly be rescheduled, and then cancelled on the rescheduled days. All that messing me about was starting to cost me more than $150.

[+ freecahill1965]

Hmm i think it about it from to time, but my rate is already the average/slightly below average escort rate. AND not only that but if a client books me for an hour or two, I don't rush them and don't clock watch so they always stay way past for what they hired. So they always are getting a deal from me if they hire me in that sense so am not compelled to lower it any more.

[uSER=12155]@Dominiking[/uSER], you are perfect just the way you are and totally yummy to boot. Anyone who does not want to pay your rates are the ones losing out.

Edited June 6, 2018 by freecahill1965

[Mount N Do]

Back to the original topic:

 

As other sites have been eliminated, rates are not being displayed, and others migrating from CL and BP. It seems to stand that along with it, people are expecting rates that may be lower than what am escort chooses to command.

 

I had put my rates up to $250 once I turned 30 last year. I find it works well in many larger markets However, I can agree with another provider I spoke with, that $150 seems to be a no fuss rate in most markets. At the same time, with the expenses I have, I would personally prefer to stay at or above $200.

 

Does anyone feel that by taking their rates down, even if temporarily....would help reach a wider base?

 

Right now, with so many different factors going on, I’m feeling that I need to pull away from $250, and revert back to $200 for markets outside of DC and similar wealthy areas. I know my worth, and I’ve made the $400, 500, 1,200. But at the same time, I rather be fuss free about my rates, rather than having to each time feel I either have to lower or explain why it’s the price I set it to.

It’s all about branding dude. Neiman Marcus doesn’t necessarily market to Macy’s shoppers. Range Rover ain’t gonna market to those looking for a Ford Explorer. You can choose to be something for anyone or you can protect your brand. With all due respect, most who frequent this board, know where you stand.

[Kyle Clinton]

As a client, I am not sure how to respond. I do not negotiate price with an escort. If an escorts states $400. I just say thank you for getting back to me just as a courtesy. If they come back with a lower price, I just pass. On the other hand, there are a few hot escorts I see who charge $200. Trust me, they could get more. @latbear4blk has taught me there are great rates to be found. When they are great, I book for multiple hours each time because it is a bargain price when they could easily be charging more. We all want the best experience possible for the best rate. I think a compromise is to offer multihour rates of some sort. Assuming $250 was an inital hour rate, charge $250 for one hour and $400 for two hours $500 for three. If a clients does not want to pay those decreasing prices, you probably do not want to deal with them any ways.

Like you, I never negotiate a service provider's rates. If the stated rate is above what I want to pay for that particular provider, I'll reply with a "thanks for your reply" and either "I'll consider it and get back to you if I decide to book an appointment" or I will end the communication from there on. On occasion there have been one or two who message me back a few minutes later with a reduced rate offer. But, in a service business I don't—and won't—like to not pay a quoted rate from the start. Getting a "deal" for an object like a piece of furniture, car, etc. is one thing because the object is what it is. But service (like a plumber or gardener or someone who cleans your house) providers might have a tendency to alter the quality of service they normally perform because the client is paying less. I prefer to do what I can to avoid that sort of "cloud" over the hour(s) spent on the job. Not much different when rates were posted on RM in the past. If a posted rate was—in my opinion—too high for what was (pics/reviews/preferences/profile/interview) offered, I'd never even bother to make contact and move on to the next. It's about marketing and service and reputation-building. If you're not working enough, it's on you to alter what you control. Life and business isn't fair. Know your worth as you believe it to be BUT know your worth as the market percieves it to be as well. Sometimes the two are not the same...one is in your head and the other puts a roof over your head and food on your table.

[Populist Fury]

If I were an escort, I would rather get less clients @ a higher rate, than more (cheap) clients @ a lower rate. More clients @ a lower rate just means more work, & probably no tips, no dinners, dingy motels... yuck... not worth the extra bucks that may come from f'ing more guys.

 

Know your worth.

[Pulgasari1991]

If one asks low he will take less even from those who could afford giving more

[+ freecahill1965]

Like you, I never negotiate a service provider's rates. If the stated rate is above what I want to pay for that particular provider, I'll reply with a "thanks for your reply" and either "I'll consider it and get back to you if I decide to book an appointment" or I will end the communication from there on. On occasion there have been one or two who message me back a few minutes later with a reduced rate offer. But, in a service business I don't—and won't—like to not pay a quoted rate from the start. Getting a "deal" for an object like a piece of furniture, car, etc. is one thing because the object is what it is. But service (like a plumber or gardener or someone who cleans your house) providers might have a tendency to alter the quality of service they normally perform because the client is paying less. I prefer to do what I can to avoid that sort of "cloud" over the hour(s) spent on the job. Not much different when rates were posted on RM in the past. If a posted rate was—in my opinion—too high for what was (pics/reviews/preferences/profile/interview) offered, I'd never even bother to make contact and move on to the next. It's about marketing and service and reputation-building. If you're not working enough, it's on you to alter what you control. Life and business isn't fair. Know your worth as you believe it to be BUT know your worth as the market percieves it to be as well. Sometimes the two are not the same...one is in your head and the other puts a roof over your head and food on your table.

Wow, nicely stated. A great contribution to this thread.

[Kyle Clinton]

Wow, nicely stated. A great contribution to this thread.

Thank you @freecahill1965. You are kind. And full disclosure...I’ve agreed to a wide range of rates. Some being the local going rate and a few much higher. It all had to do with the value I perceived after research both here and elsewhere. Generally, it’s turned out that the higher rates equated to a more “top shelf” experience and well worth the increased rate. Those turn out to be regular hires I see more often. Lower rates (average for the local area) tend to either be new to the business building clientele or maybe older in age. Then, there are those who’s perception of their value doesn’t match the service they provide. They almost never get a second appointment nor referral. Service is the secret of any successful business and reputation assures that business stays (and thrives) in business.

[Mocha]

It’s all about branding dude. Neiman Marcus doesn’t necessarily market to Macy’s shoppers. Range Rover ain’t gonna market to those looking for a Ford Explorer. You can choose to be something for anyone or you can protect your brand. With all due respect, most who frequent this board, know where you stand.

 

You had me until that last sentence. Know where I stand meaning? Sounds like you trying to be fictitious and disingenuous.

 

Anyhow, can we as S workers and supporters of S workers stop comparing the business to other businesses? Sex being compared to pizza, burgers, cars, clothing, etc. I’m sick of it. Let’s just stop.

 

Let’s face it: no matter if an escort is charging $50 or $5,000, were all on the same 1 website. Ford and Range Rover are vehicles that have been around for many decades. The average escort has been around for less than a decade.

 

The same client who shops for a $500 escort will probably go for a $50 one, if they’re hot and nearby. A Range Rover buyer will likely not buy a Fiesta. Why? Because the commitment level is different. The experience doesn’t always match price either.

 

And for the record, even if I’m at $200...who’s to say my client won’t be a Range Rover driving guy who shops at Neiman Marcus? A small bottle of cologne at Neiman can cost $200. If he decides to buy me instead of it, then I’ve done something good for the man. Or not. Maybe he thinks because he has a Range and shops at Neiman, he’s too good to pay for sex (which I believe is how the majority of gay men who have money operate mentally...which is why business doesn’t necessarily improve just because “thousands of gay men” are coming to town for a convention.

 

Or he’s driving fancy cars but is broke. Like many guys in Florida and Los Angeles are. Driving exotic cars and shit, but ain’t got no damn money to spend.

 

On the other hand, I’ve had clients who shop at Goodwill, give me 500-2,000. So...I don’t care what they drive or wear.

[+ freecahill1965]

Thank you @freecahill1965. You are kind. And full disclosure...I’ve agreed to a wide range of rates. Some being the local going rate and a few much higher. It all had to do with the value I perceived after research both here and elsewhere. Generally, it’s turned out that the higher rates equated to a more “top shelf” experience and well worth the increased rate. Those turn out to be regular hires I see more often. Lower rates (average for the local area) tend to either be new to the business building clientele or maybe older in age. Then, there are those who’s perception of their value doesn’t match the service they provide. They almost never get a second appointment nor referral. Service is the secret of any successful business and reputation assures that business stays (and thrives) in business.

Again, well stated and I agree. I feel that some higher paid escorts do not provide a better service. I have found a number lower than average priced escorts providing super customer service which earns my multiple repeat business.

[MartyB]

Change of topic: originally this was a discussion about rates...but now I feel the need to make a general statement:

 

I regret that I may be taking some issues out on forum. However, I’m trying hard to keep things cordial so I can continue to participate, as it does help to be here to share, hear and be heard during certain irking times of the year. At the same time, I just have to let everyone know. I’ve just been going THRU it. So please try to understand if it seems as if I hate clients or being an escort. It’s not that. It’s just hard to keep a cool head right now, with everything going on.

 

For example, in the last month I’ve: needed to file a lawsuit (confidential but nothing related to clients, websites or escorts), dealt with changing advertising platforms, unpredictable client behavior, assisting relatives with financial issues, undecided on where to find a new place, health concerns, hurdles with relationships and now today...having a run in with the Police while driving and being profiled and repeatedly interrogated for almost an hour over suspicion of trafficking drugs simply because of a minor infraction (despite me having 0 tattoos, a clean driving record/no warrants and considered a square when it comes to any sort of drug use). They stopped for 1 thing, but made it look way more sinister than it was.

 

All this takes a toll on my general demeanor. It’s too much. One thing after the next, and its affecting everything from my gym routine to my ability to handle conversations with clients. I treat every client with utmost respect, in person. However, when there’s just no real break from the challenges of life, it’s hard to be perfectly level headed text message after text. Forum post after forum post. Yes, I probably sound off and angry. But that’s not in my spirit. I’m going thru so much and have only a couple good non-escort friends to talk to who understand. But non of who understands the business, except here in the forum.

 

I’m looking forward to better days...

I think clients and I include myself have to be aware that escorts/masseurs are human after all. From what you've described it's a real test to meet with clients and provide the kinds of service you are proud of. For my regulars something like this would be far more understandable because a "relationship" has been established to some extent.

Back to the original topic:

 

As other sites have been eliminated, rates are not being displayed, and others migrating from CL and BP. It seems to stand that along with it, people are expecting rates that may be lower than what am escort chooses to command.

 

I had put my rates up to $250 once I turned 30 last year. I find it works well in many larger markets However, I can agree with another provider I spoke with, that $150 seems to be a no fuss rate in most markets. At the same time, with the expenses I have, I would personally prefer to stay at or above $200.

 

Does anyone feel that by taking their rates down, even if temporarily....would help reach a wider base?

 

Right now, with so many different factors going on, I’m feeling that I need to pull away from $250, and revert back to $200 for markets outside of DC and similar wealthy areas. I know my worth, and I’ve made the $400, 500, 1,200. But at the same time, I rather be fuss free about my rates, rather than having to each time feel I either have to lower or explain why it’s the price I set it to.

NYC escorts across the board are higher. Plus with no rates posted on rentmen escorts I think for want of a different expression price gouging. If they are able to get the higher rate from clients they will. Glad I have met some regulars where I know what I'm getting for the money. It must vary from city to city. If you charged the rate posted here I suspect you would be remarkably busy..

[LADoug1]

Never had it happen to me but if an escort offered to lower his rate I’d be concerned that he would resent me and not give his all during the session. Not all escorts though.

[Mount N Do]

Okay then-you do you. I wasn’t comparing anything. I was attempting to point out that even if you have a good product, and you don’t protect the brand, it becomes diluted. You’ve unwisely and openly shared your marketing strategy with your consumer. You’ll never get maximum dollar again. Cause your brand is diluted. It has nothing to do with the product. You just have no conviction on its value. Simply put, if Cartier advertises that their timepieces are frequently available at a discount, who’s gonna pay full retail? That’s all...

Edited June 7, 2018 by Mount N Do

[Kyle Clinton]

Again, well stated and I agree. I feel that some higher paid escorts do not provide a better service. I have found a number lower than average priced escorts providing super customer service which earns my multiple repeat business.

Agree. Research and referrals important but never "fail-safe". No guarantees. It's when you find the best "fit" that you repeat again and again. Relationships and genuine loyalty (not only for the sake of loyalty) to those we enjoy spending time with can't be discounted.

[Mocha]

Okay then-you do you. I wasn’t comparing anything. I was attempting to point out that even if you have a good product, and you don’t protect the brand, it becomes diluted. You’ve unwisely and openly shared your marketing strategy with your consumer. You’ll never get maximum dollar again. Cause your brand is diluted. It has nothing to do with the product. You just have no conviction on its value. Simply put, if Cartier advertises that their timepieces are frequently available at a discount, who’s gonna pay full retail? That’s all...

 

Well I disagree though. I’ve not shared my marketing strategy. I simply based common rates in relation to the expected prices. There’s more to marketing than price.

 

Since you want to compare: Do prices ever stay the same price all the time? No. The reasons may be different for whatever reasons, but there’s still people buying $800 tickets, when you can get it on the same flight for $59. Why are people in many cities paying $1,000+ for the same apartment that was $600, 5 years ago?

 

I’m also not DISCOUNTING my prices. I just want to limit the amount of resistance for first time buyers in certain markets. I feel that the majority of the new clients contacting me, are the Backpage/Craigslist refugees (no offense). Remember, backpage used to be popular for finding Black guys. They’re learning and open to pay more, but like I said...I still plan to keep my two hour, evening and overnight rates the same.

 

And to further prove my point here, I’ll let you (and everyone else) in on a little secret: About 3 years ago, I wanted to shake things up business wise. This is back when rentboy was still around. I put my price to 500 for a couple of weeks. I started immediately getting new clients.

 

At the same time, I didn’t wish to remain at the price point permanently, but it did help boost my value during a time that was not popping like I wanted it to.

 

Even if I take prices down now, I will know when the right time will come to put them back up again.

Edited June 8, 2018 by Mocha

[Kyle Clinton]

Well I disagree though. I’ve not shared my marketing strategy. I simply based common rates in relation to the expected prices. There’s more to marketing than price.

 

Since you want to compare: Do prices ever stay the same price all the time? No. The reasons may be different for whatever reasons, but there’s still people buying $800 tickets, when you can get it on the same flight for $59. Why are people in many cities paying $1,000+ for the same apartment that was $600, 5 years ago?

 

I’m also not DISCOUNTING my prices. I just want to limit the amount of resistance for first time buyers in certain markets. I feel that the majority of the new clients contacting me, are the Backpage/Craigslist refugees (no offense). Remember, backpage used to be popular for finding Black guys. They’re learning and open to pay more, but like I said...I still plan to keep my two hour, evening and overnight rates the same.

 

And to further prove my point here, I’ll let you (and everyone else) in on a little secret: About 3 years ago, I wanted to shake things up business wise. This is back when rentboy was still around. I put my price to 500 for a couple of weeks. I started immediately getting new clients.

 

At the same time, I didn’t wish to remain at the price point permanently, but it did help boost my value during a time that was not popping like I wanted it to.

 

Even if I take prices down now, I will know when the right time will come to put them back up again.

 

"There’s more to marketing than price." That's it in a nutshell folks! (well stated) It's a mix of many elements and the mix is never "fixed". There is no single or permanent approach. What works one year, in a particular city/geo graphical market, for a certain type or age of client...fill in the blank, must always be tweeked and adjusted to stay in and on top of the game.