No, that's a fair question and I anticipated it
There are a few reasons for the price difference. The first and most obvious one is that the women who hire me are actually independent (as opposed to places that say so for marketing reasons). They are literally my bosses and I can't tell them what to charge. I have a 2-fee structure and each woman can opt in and out of those fees as the individual appointment demands.
Secondly, the cost of renting and living downtown has increased significantly over the past 10 years, but rates have not. For upscale independents, they're charging right about average ...but you guys get all the benefits of working with an agency, like fast responses, texting, and potentially discounts if something goes wrong. There's a level of insurance for you. You also get all the benefits of an independent provider, like their active (and self-managed) Twitter profiles (and constant selfies!).
The vast majority of agencies charge $100/$250, so the woman is left with $150 at the end of the day. The women who hire me earn $200 or even $250 - it all goes right back into her pocket. I think the "norm" is wrong and confusing, and our business model relies on loyalty, female talent and individual entrepreneurship. (Story time: I once booked an Indy duo with an agency woman... who told me her indy rates for an outcall were $300/h. I knew full well that she was earning $150/h at her agency - confusing!) At $300/hour, my bosses don't have to be as high volume as other agencies.
Lastly, even though I know $300 makes us higher than other places, I like that it allows me to be picky about who hires me. I imagine that as we grow, some women will offer a lower rate and some might opt to offer a higher one to vary their offerings based on market demand and their personal style.
We have no need to be a barebones bed and side table style agency - we're working hard to exceed your expectations - individual units, fully furnished and comfortable, as luxurious as we can make them. (Guys, keep telling me what you want!). Phone chargers, sound system, candles, art, fluffy towels, refreshments and snacks...
For all of that, I think $300 is absolutely fair. Raise your standards, guys! You deserve it - it's your hard-earned money!
Becky
PS. There are about 20 things we're doing differently, not just rates - mandated time between engagements, for example. I laugh when I see "15m inbetween appointments". Um... no. Let's do this in a way that benefits the women and the clients we adore.
PPS. Keep your eyes open for our HUBGFE introductory special, as a special thank you for giving us a shot.