[Hugh R]

Don't know crap about web design, but as a former consultant, find out what the client wants, perhaps give him a conceptual and a BUDGET estimate. Spell out clearly what you'll give him for the BUDGET, and call that something like Phase I. If you can, get him to agree to pay you for the conceptual. Afterall, your still working on developing his work product.

Final tip, when billing him, if you had phone calls, put them in the bill and indicate "No Charge". You don't want your clients thinking you start the meter every time they call. And if they feel comfortable calling you, your talking to your client about MORE WORK.