ris_rye,
U're right, the going rate can be anything frm RMB6-RMB18 depending on the qualification n experience of the ayi. But this usually applies for part time ayi that goes by the hrly rate. For fulltime or stay-in ayi, we negotiate based on mthly pay. This can be anything frm RMB1200-RMB2000+. Wat we did was we called up the agency, specify our requirement n rate n c if there's any taker. My current ayi works 10 hrs on weekdays n 2 hrs on sat, we offered RMB1100 initially but has since gave her a raise. Our previous part time ayi who works 4 hrs daily on weekdays was paid RMB7 per hr. For my case, my mum was with me when i first arrived, so we only need a part time ayi to clean up the households n cook lunch. Dinner we can prepare ourself.