How much buffer should I add when quoting a service I've never done?

A 15-25% time buffer above your best estimate is reasonable for the first few jobs in a new service line, while you're still building a real baseline.

Should I tell customers I'm new to a service when quoting it?

Yes -- being upfront that you're newer to a service and pricing slightly below your eventual long-term rate sets honest expectations and helps you land the jobs needed to build a real pricing baseline.

What should I track on my first few jobs in a new service line?

Actual hours worked and materials used, not just the price charged. After 4-5 jobs you'll have real data to price confidently instead of continuing to guess.

How to Price a Job You've Never Done Before

Expanding into a new vertical or service line? Here's a practical way to price your first few jobs without underquoting your time or overpricing yourself out of the booking.