See, every now and then one of them goes independent and before they do, when still in the consideration phase, they usually reach out to an independent for advice. Having advised one or two, the house fee wouldn't cover the difference unless they stay HIGH volume, which in turn will burn them out faster.
1. Advertising & Marketing
• Directory listings (Tryst, P411, Eros, Slixa, etc.): $50–$500+/month depending on selections
• Website hosting, domain, design: $250–$1,000+ annually (usually wanted because it adds to legitimacy)
• Professional photoshoots: $300–$1,000+ (refreshed yearly but some invest more)
• Social media/content creation: cost unknown (time-consuming and sometimes outsourced)
2. Screening & Admin Tools
• Various screening platforms: $250 - $600/year
• Numbers (Google Voice, Hushed or a business line with LLC): $0 - $500/year)
• Email hosting, calendar tools: cost varies
• Assistants or Virtual Assistant help (for high-volume or travel-heavy providers): $900 - $3000/month
3. Beauty, Wardrobe & Upkeep (Depends - some genuinely only do this because of this work)
• Hair, nails, skincare, waxing: easily $200–$1,000+/month
• Lingerie, heels, wardrobe updates
• Makeup restocks, hygiene products
• Gym memberships, wellness upkeep, therapy, etc.
4. Workspaces & Locations
• Incall rentals or day hotels in MSP: $100–$400+/day or $1200-$1800/month for an apartment depending on area
• Airbnbs or hotels for travel dates
• Car services, rideshares, travel costs
• Client-ready items: towels, drinks, snacks, toiletries, etc.
5. Safety & Legal
• Security tools, check-in systems
• Legal/Business Advice/Structures (for those who opt to formalize their business, structure, & want to protect themselves)
• Emergency funds for unexpected situations
6. Time Costs (Often Invisible)
• Screening & inquiry responses
• Emotional labor (texting/emailing between appointments or if there isn't an appointment is labor!)
• Managing cancellations, no-shows, and ghosting
• Content creation, newsletters, DMs, and social upkeep
And therein lies the crux of the matter when it comes to rates. Do you keep your rate lower to appease the majority and remain high volume, knowing you will have to take more time off which data shows will ensure you earn LESS over time or do you up the rate slightly, curate a solid inner-circle and ensure you can cover your costs, live, and more importantly, save.