The overall  cost of housekeeping services can vary greatly from one service provider to another and varies from one area to another...  However there are some factors that are very easily controlled by you the consumer. 

Many providers will tell you that it is necessary to have an in-home consultation with you before they can supply an accurate estimate of the final cost. This is done mainly so that the service can get a better understanding of your homes particular needs, the cleaning requirements, and your cleaning expectations.

Still others, such as Murphy Maids believe that often those same questions can be answered right over the telephone or through an on-line form such as the one above. All without the high pressure sales tactics which so often come along with those Free In-home estimates. Yes, of course Murphy Maids still performs an in-home estimate in homes where the particular requirements of the home may require a more detailed process to quote. as well as at our clients request. Simply stated, we prefer to clean homes, not invade your privacy and take up your time needlessly under the guise of an estimate.

Here are some of the factors involved in assessing the price of a job:

• size of the home (number of bedrooms/bathrooms)

• frequency of cleaning (weekly, bimonthly)

• number of people and pets in the household

• level of clutter (can you access the areas to be cleaned?)

• amount of different surfaces to be cleaned

• special requirements, such as cleaning windows

As you can see, these are questions that can be asked in just a few seconds time right over the telephone.
 

Here are some rough figures of what you can expect to pay for housecleaning services:

• In larger metropolitan areas, for a medium-sized apartment or house, an individual unlicensed un-bonded housekeeper often charges about $100 per cleaning. The price is nice but remember, that fantastic price comes at a huge risk to the homeowner.

• In larger metropolitan areas, for a medium-sized apartment or house, a reputable licensed and bonded provider, might charge about $175 per cleaning.

• In less populated cities or towns, for an average-sized house (2500 square feet), around $95 is a typical fee per cleaning.

Definitely ask your friends if they have had a housekeeper how much they've been  charged for cleaning services to get an idea of the going rates in your area. Don't forget to ask about their level of satisfaction too. Remember a bargain price isn't all that great of a bargain if they weren't satisfied with the service.

Remember, you should always be able negotiate with a prospective provider in order to arrive at a fair price that both of you can live with.