Another thing is filtering out the dreamers. We've all been there at the dreaming stage, hell, we still are there to some degree as we're here now on this BBS (which isn't really a BBS), and sharing the hobby, etc. However, sometimes the dreamers don't have the capital to see it through, and it remains a incomplete POS. If I was not retired military, I would have to be far more concerned with health insurance, Social Security taxes, etc., as a self-employed business. One problem you will encounter if you have not already done so, is the person who has an imaginary number in their mind as to what it 'Should' cost vs. what it actually costs. These types will take a bit of work to get 'em right. Sometimes you have to go round and round with them, but, if you have a signed contract, with a clearly stated cost, scope of work to be done, and DON'T assign a timeframe, and caveat it all with its all an estimate whereas the cost can and could go up, the scope could be changed as you uncover issues. I've learned that if you're going to take on a large project, get 10K up front from them, this assures they're serious, and you have some cash to work with. Keep receipts, invoice, account for your time, and have measurable progress each week or month where the customer will be pleased and see progress. Don't do anything other than this, treat them as you would want to be treated. Too often there are crooks and thieves in this business, they are the ones who are inexperienced and don't have the skills in business and trade to make it...read my threads about the Thief, etc. Good luck!
