Hey 240, for the $300 website is that only html and navigation? or does include include back end and middle tier stuff also?
Is your back ground mostly front end related stuff? or can you program business objects also? if so what programming languages do you know?
I am learning php now. Did a lot of java and vb in college. Up front, I get a clear estimate of the customer's needs and what the site will entail. Usually if a customer has a specific request, I'll learn it, if possible. If it's back end and it's beyond my skillset, I work with a partner (the very talented garraeth) who can code anything anytime. So it might go a little over 300, but i've never had one go over 400 total even with a complex DB/ecomm system. The cutomer knows all costs, limitations, and expectations up front before a dime ever changes hands.
I'm a sales & marketing guy first- profitability is goal #1 for the customer. My repeat business is terrific right now... over 1/3 of my clients are repeat clients, which is very good for efficiency. I'm always very upfront with my capabilities and limitations, and will always fwd someone in the right direction if I'm not the right man for a job.