How Much Will It Cost?

One of the first questions I’m asked about self-publishing books is, “How much will it cost?” The answer, of course, depends on the size and type of the book. To determine a budget consider the costs for each of the three phases of self-publishing—writing, publishing, and marketing.

If you have little time to write a book, hire a ghost writer. A ghost writer turns your original information into a manuscript. Ghost writing fees start at $150 per page or $25,000 per project, depending on the subject. A ghost writer does not usually receive proceeds or royalties from the sale of the book.

If you plan to write the book, hire a writing coach to keep you focused. Fees for an experienced writing coach range from $50 to $200 per hour.

A co-author or collaborator brings additional experience, research, and writing to your project. A co-author or collaborator may receive a writing fee, depending on the contribution. If a co-author or collaborator helps finance the project, he or she receives a percentage of income from book sales.

When you think your manuscript is complete, hire a professional editor for feedback on the clarity and flow of each chapter and to check grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Editors charge by the hour ranging from $50 to $100 or by the page starting at $2 per double-spaced page, depending on the size and complexity of the manuscript.

With an adequate budget you will be more likely to publish an interesting book readers will want to buy.