The fact the you are asking this question for your friend is exactly why so many blue collar trade owners go out of business or struggle for ever. Your friend needs to know what his true cost of business is (Breakeven) and no two companies are the same. So the question you are asking is impossible for anyone in this forum to answer unless we knew exactly what his overhead was (truck costs, tool expenses, auto, worker comp, health insurances, rents, advertising, cell phone, marketing collateral, vacation time, credit card fees, accounting, software, office supplies, computer expenses, etc...) to name a few. This question is much like asking someone what is the cost of 2 bags of groceries? The answer would be "it depends on whats in the bag" you know what I mean! I am a previous HVAC business owner (sold business) and this is a HUGE issue in our trade as well. Many contractors worked for someone else and are excellent tradesmen but have no business education. They then go off on their own starting thier own business, what Michael Gerber the author of the EMYTH book call the "entrepreneur seizure". My suggestion is your friend seeks some buisness training ASAP before he gets himself in a world of financial hurt! Best of luck to your friend!
