I find it unlikely you can do 5 - 10 decks in one day by yourself, which equals 1,000 - 2,000 sq. ft. @ .50 per sq. ft. to make $500 - $1,000 per day. Taking into account that the cost of living is a bit lower in Missouri, it stills seems a stretch. Although I sense your indignant reply to the "scorching" you received from the other contractors, your initial post brought it on yourself. There's absolutely NO WAY you could be doing a quality job! As far as making a house payment with our revenue (not to mention payroll, insurance, materials, fuel, etc.)....isn't that what being in business is all about? I am familiar with the housing market in Missouri and $500 - $1,000 per day would make more than enough house payment to purchase a Mansion, relative to most of the midwest portion of the country. Who are you trying to kid? Seems like only yourself at this point!
I'll end my argument with your State's motto.......Missouri - The "Show Me" State!!! Good Luck with all that!!!