What is a reasonable rate for a housecleaner in condo?

[Anonymous]

We have 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and small den, small living room, and kitchen. I saw an old thread but it was from a couple of years ago and was wondering what today's going rates are? Also, do all housecleaners (individuals and services) charge more for the first cleaning?

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

We pay $70 per week for the exact same condo-size, except she doesnt clean the den. It was $80 for the initial visit. I would be more if we did it bi-weekly or monthly.

[Anonymous]

Our cleaning woman (with a small crew) charged $85 for a condo of similar size in DC 3 years ago. With the downturn in the economy, I think that $85 would still be reasonable. We still use her for our house now and she started charging a lot more for the house. She's on the higher end of what is normal but she's really good and thorough, so maybe $85 was high for a condo too. I never had anyone to compare to in the condo, but I know she's high for our house.

[Anonymous]

10:36 again. I should also mention that she comes every two weeks. I think it would be less if she was weekly.

[Anonymous]

This is all very helpful...thanks, PPs. I was expecting to pay about $75 but was quoted $90, so I just wasn't sure whether I might negotiate or keep looking.

If anyone has recommendations for someone in Rockville, that would be a bonus!

[Anonymous]

I think you should also factor in what it is that you're asking them to do in each room.

For example: We don't need the kitchen counters wiped or dishes done, just the kitchen floor cleaned in that room. No refrigerator cleaning either; just the upstairs (full) bath, not the guest loo that gets no traffic; etc.

For another property, we only contract her to clean the bathroom and kitchen---nothing else.