Many clients ask the price first and never reply again. A good first answer gives a number or range, asks two useful questions and makes the next step easy.
A reply in four parts
Thank them in one line.
Give a starting price or range for the common version of the job, if you have one.
Ask two questions that change the price: scope and deadline.
End with one clear next step.
Sample (made-up numbers, replace with yours)
Example: made-up freelancer, not a customer.
"Thanks for writing. A simple 5-page website starts at Rs [your price]. The final price depends on how many pages and how soon you need it. Could you tell me what the business does and your deadline? I can send a clear quote today."
Mistakes to avoid
Do not quote a number you cannot keep.
Do not copy someone else's rate card; set yours from your time and costs.
Do not pressure with "offer ends today" unless it is true.
Copy-paste prompt
Copy-paste prompt
Write a WhatsApp reply for a [service] freelancer in India to a client asking "what is your rate?". Starting price: Rs [mine]. Ask about scope and deadline. Under 60 words, polite, one clear next step. No pressure.