How to price a salon chair or room for rent

Start with what the space costs you

Before you look at what anyone else charges, work out what the chair or room costs you to keep open. Add up the share of rent, business rates, utilities, cleaning and anything you supply, like towels or a reception service.

That number is your floor. Anything you charge above it pays you back for the space that would otherwise sit empty.

Look at what nearby salons charge

Search for listings near you and note what similar spaces go for. A lash room in a busy high street salon will not cost the same as a chair in a quiet suburban one, so compare like with like.

If you land a little under the local going rate, you will usually hear from more people. If your space has something the others don't, like a private room or parking, you can charge more for it.

Offer more than one rate

Renters work in different ways. Some want a chair every Saturday, others want a room full time. Giving a day, week and month price lets each of them find a fit.

• A day rate suits freelancers who are mobile most of the week.
• A weekly rate suits people building up a client list.
• A monthly rate suits established professionals who want a base.

Say exactly what the price includes

Most back-and-forth with renters is about what is and isn't included. Put it in the listing: Wi-Fi, products, laundry, reception, card machine, storage. A slightly higher price with everything spelled out often beats a low price with surprises.