[boz]

I don't think $500 is too much, but you'll find few people to pay it. For some reason, the technical-electronics trades won't bear the same fees compared to similar tasks in other fields. I think this has to do with the hobbiest nature of things, and the ability to find a friend/neighbor/acquaintance who will do the work for free or near free.

For instance, when I sold my last home the inspector found water collecting in the crawlspace. I hired some joker to take care of it, and all he did was dig a drainage trench with a shovel and fill it with gravel. This was 2 hours work. He billed me $500 and held up sale of my home till I paid it.

Also, see how much it costs to replace something like an alternator or A/C compressor or do a brake job. I do that stuff myself, but my mom paid $800 for an A/C compressor and $500 for a 4 wheel brake job. Try getting that stuff done for free.

I used to do home computer upgrade/repair, but stopped because there's too many non-professionals who will do it for free, not to mention the problem that for the rates I must charge, people can just buy a new equipment.

Unfortunately, I don't help my own cause. Relatives still send their computers over and friends ask for my help with their satellite problems and generally I don't charge for my time. Try to find a mechanic, electrician, doctor or lawyer who doesn't charge for his time.