The JobMargin field notes
Straightforward advice on estimates, costs, and knowing what your work actually earned.
August 12, 2026
You do not need an accounting degree to understand a profit and loss statement. Here is a plain-English guide for tradespeople who want to know if their business is actually making money.
Read the articleAugust 10, 2026
Solo contractors often set their hourly rate at what they want to earn, ignoring payroll taxes, insurance, tools, vehicles, and unpaid time. Here is how to calculate your true labor burden.
Read the articleAugust 8, 2026
A practical guide for solo contractors on when to write a change order, how to price additional work, and how to get customer approval without damaging the relationship.
Read the articleAugust 6, 2026
Flat rate vs hourly vs trip fee — a practical guide to pricing service calls that covers your real costs and leaves a profit, without scaring off customers.
Read the articleAugust 5, 2026
Confusing markup with margin is costing you 20% or more on every job. Learn the difference with real examples and a simple formula.
Read the articleAugust 4, 2026
Learn a simple system to compare estimated vs actual job costs, catch over-budget work early, and know your real profit on every job.
Read the article