I paid $2.02 at the BJ’s in Melbourne, Florida for gas. As a military retiree, I pay only $35 for a BJ’s membership card. I have $250 in RaceTrac gas cards that I purchased at a 20% discount at Publix. Using these cards, I pay about $1.86/gallon for gas at RaceTrac. I drive a 3-year old Prius 2 that gets 52 MPG.
Keep your service area small. Create the volume you need in that small service area by working for more companies. Charge more for out-of-area services. Work only for the higher quality firms that pay the higher fees. Avoid low-fee mortgage inspections. Work smart. Create efficiencies and you will earn more money. Add another part-time job such as notary signings if you need to fill any gaps. Life can be great if you are organized and produce great work.