Hello there!
I have been involved in programming for a number of years, with a focus on web development. However, my experience has mostly been on an amateur level, alongside my studies.
As a result, I have gained knowledge in various languages such as HTML+CSS, JS (including jQuery), C++ (mainly for school competitions), Python. I also have some familiarity with PHP+MySQL, although not as extensive as the previous languages. In addition, I have worked on a project using Haskell, which gave me exposure to functional programming. Due to my participation in competitions, I possess a strong understanding of algorithms and data structures, as well as a background in mathematics. Furthermore, I am competent in the fundamentals of object-oriented programming.

Now, let's get to the point. I am interested in pursuing freelance work as a web developer (or even as a programmer specializing in C++ and Python, although I believe the demand for that may be less). To accurately estimate the scope of work, it is important for me to have an approximate hourly rate. With that said, I would like to know what would be a reasonable starting point for me in terms of pricing.

Moreover, I would appreciate guidance on which areas I should focus on to excel in freelancing. There are numerous frameworks and libraries available, making it difficult to determine where to begin. Additionally, with my existing skill set, what would a suitable price range be? Lastly, considering the current state of the market, do you think it's oversaturated?

Feel free to share your thoughts and any additional information you may have on this topic.

To be effective in your work, you should possess the following skills:

- Striking a pragmatic balance between writing efficient code and code that may not be perfect
- Finding the right equilibrium between speed of development and optimizing code
- Maintaining a balance between supporting existing code and employing temporary solutions or "crutches"
- Proficiency in utilizing the tools you work with, prioritizing speed of development while minimizing subpar code and ensuring long-term maintainability (within given deadlines). This means being open to alternative tools like JetBrains products, even if it means abandoning a console editor like Vim.
- Cultivating a sense of foresight regarding project changes and making the architecture adaptable in advance. It also involves identifying features that may become redundant in the near future, allowing you to prioritize work more efficiently.
- Familiarity with commonly recurring features across projects, enabling you to expedite their implementation based on previous experience.

In terms of tool selection, it is advisable to opt for comprehensive frameworks that can address the majority of requirements "out of the box." Examples include Symfony, Django, and Laravel. It is best to avoid minimalist frameworks like Falcon or Flask, as they may not provide the same level of functionality and support. While others may boast about the speed of their chosen framework, you needn't fret over such matters, as your efficient development process has already generated substantial revenue to invest in additional servers. Meanwhile, individuals relying on Falcon may spend a week googling how to handle migrations and run unit tests on a $5 VPSU.

Additionally, it is essential to stay up-to-date with emerging trends and technologies in web development, ensuring continuous growth and improvement in your skills. Remember, the key to success lies in finding a balance between efficiency, maintainability, and meeting client expectations.

If your goal is to engage in substantial development work, rather than solely creating landing pages for bundles and online stores, it would be beneficial to seek employment at a medium or large company, even as a junior employee. Working alongside more experienced individuals will provide valuable mentorship opportunities, and these companies are typically less focused on rushing projects to generate immediate revenue. Additionally, you will have the chance to explore a variety of intriguing tools and approaches, as well as learn how to effectively communicate with the business side of things, where real operations and profits are being generated.

Currently, there is a strong emphasis on quality and scalability under heavy loads, which presents exciting challenges. Eventually, you can consider transitioning to a startup environment, where you can take part in building a colossal project from scratch. This presents another unique experience. If the startup becomes successful, you may have the opportunity to continue working there as it expands, gaining experience in maintaining and refactoring a large-scale project.

On the other hand, freelancing primarily involves hurriedly creating landing pages for minimal compensation, without the guidance of an experienced colleague nearby. The most challenging aspect of freelancing tends to be setting up stores on content management systems (CMS) specifically designed for e-commerce.

Overall, the key is to seek opportunities that provide a balance between learning from experienced professionals, working on challenging projects, and being in an environment where quality and scalability are prioritized. This will enable you to continuously improve your skills and gain valuable experiences in the field of web development.

I have observed that a few of my more experienced colleagues possess similar skills to mine.
Interestingly, their rates have consistently been half of what I charge.
Consistently!
In other words, programmers willingly diminish their own earnings.

Nevertheless, I must admit that I am not particularly skilled at negotiating higher rates. In fact, I often offer discounts of 10-30% when clients engage in significant bargaining.

Now, regarding your question, the value you can command as a freelancer largely depends on the agreements you can reach with your clients.
For the same job, you could either charge five times more or five times less.

PS: Transitioning to freelancing without prior full-time work experience at a company (especially without the support of experienced colleagues) is truly a waste of years. Productive self-learning only becomes possible after gaining substantial experience. Starting with freelancing early on can severely limit your career growth, resulting in a low professional ceiling.

For web development, rates can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, complexity of the project, and client budget. As a starting point, you can consider a range of $20 to $50 per hour for basic web development tasks using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. For more specialized skills like backend development or working with frameworks like React or Angular, rates can go upwards of $50 to $100 per hour.

For C++ and Python programming, rates tend to be higher due to the demand for these languages in areas such as software development, data analysis, and machine learning. Rates for C++ and Python can range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on your expertise and the complexity of the projects.

To excel in freelancing, it's important to focus not only on technical skills but also on communication, project management, and client satisfaction. Building a strong portfolio, networking with potential clients or other freelancers, and continuously improving your skills through learning new technologies and keeping up with industry trends can also help you stand out.

Regarding the market saturation, while the field of web development is competitive, there is still a high demand for skilled professionals. By specializing in a particular niche or industry, developing a strong network, and delivering high-quality work, you can find success as a freelancer.

Here's some additional information that might be helpful:

1. Building a strong portfolio: Having a portfolio that showcases your best work is crucial for attracting clients. Consider creating a website or online portfolio where you can showcase your projects and highlight your skills and expertise.

2. Specialization: Consider specializing in a specific area within web development or programming. This can help you stand out from the competition and position yourself as an expert in a particular niche. For example, you could focus on e-commerce websites, responsive design, or mobile app development.

3. Continuous learning: The field of web development and programming is constantly evolving, with new frameworks, libraries, and tools being released regularly. Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies by attending workshops, online courses, or industry events. This will help you stay competitive and offer the latest solutions to your clients.

4. Client communication and project management: Strong communication skills are essential for freelancers. Being able to effectively communicate with clients, understand their requirements, and provide regular updates on project progress can greatly enhance client satisfaction. Additionally, honing your project management skills can help you deliver projects efficiently and on time.

5. Pricing strategies: Consider different pricing models, such as hourly rates or fixed project-based fees, depending on the nature of the project and the client's preferences. Be transparent about your pricing, clearly outlining what is included and any additional costs that may arise during the project.

Few more points to consider:

1. Marketing and Networking: In order to attract clients, it's important to market yourself effectively. Create an online presence through social media channels, professional networking sites, and your own website. Join relevant online communities and forums where you can share your knowledge and connect with potential clients or other freelancers. Additionally, attending local tech events or meetups can provide opportunities for networking and building relationships in the industry.

2. Client Testimonials and Referrals: Positive testimonials and referrals can greatly boost your credibility and attract new clients. Ask satisfied clients to provide testimonials that you can showcase on your website or portfolio. Additionally, encourage clients to refer you to others who may be in need of your services.

3. Continuous Skill Development: The tech industry is constantly evolving, so it's important to keep learning and growing your skill set. Stay updated with new technologies, frameworks, and languages by investing time in self-study, taking online courses, or attending workshops. This will not only help you stay competitive but also enable you to offer more diverse and specialized solutions to your clients.

4. Client Relationship Management: Building strong relationships with clients is crucial for repeat business and positive referrals. Regularly communicate with your clients throughout the project, addressing any concerns or questions promptly. Offer exceptional customer service and go the extra mile to exceed their expectations. A satisfied client is more likely to bring you future projects or recommend you to others.

5. Building a Sustainable Pricing Structure: As you gain experience and expertise, you can gradually increase your rates. Consider the value you provide to clients, the complexity of the projects, and the competitive landscape when determining your pricing. Don't undervalue your skills, but also be mindful of offering competitive rates that appeal to potential clients.