I do most of my work through agencies in Austin, TX... It took about a year to build up a good hourly rate reliably... this was done mostly just by being fast,

I do most of my work through agencies in Austin, TX... It took about a year to build up a good hourly rate reliably... this was done mostly just by being fast, available, and good and always keeping an eye on the next project. At this point, I know several people who are able to make money off me, and that has always been my goal as a freelancer, more than anything. The agencies I freelance with all recognize that I'm as reliable as an employee but far cheaper as far as total cost, so they have a better margin on work they do with me. And even though I'm charging quite a bit, since they are charging a markup on my time... well, it's just a lot nicer for everyone. If I raise my rates, they make more money (within reason, of course).