I think it has to start with a really great portfolio. Perhaps even start blogging. Pick a developmental niche and own it. Do you want to develop MVP's for n

I think it has to start with a really great portfolio. Perhaps even start blogging. Pick a developmental niche and own it. Do you want to develop MVP's for non-technical founders - can you cope with the indecision at the idea stage in exchange for quick turn around projects? If so, offer your services here, in the /r/sideproject & /r/entrepreneur subreddits. Maybe you'd rather refactor existing technology to be faster, stronger & beautiful. Lots more planning & management but for bigger rewards & a better portfolio. Find sites that have flaws, technical issues & make a compelling case for hiring you by emailing them. Perhaps you want to become known for beautiful sites for handmade crafters, farmers market vendors etc. Make some stunning advertising, flyers, postcards etc. Stay local, go to events and build your name. Pick a couple of vendors with beautiful products and offer to do their site to build your portfolio. Team up with a great photographer & make those sample sites shine. You will easily become known for what you do. After you have your portfolio set - start raising those rates. Remember, the types of jobs you accept, lead to other jobs of a similar type. By accepting jobs in niches you dislike, you're making it harder for yourself to enjoy your work and get to where you want to be.