This would have been a pretty perfect deck to start with being that they are not super invested in the outcome and just want it to look good at first glance.
I am not an expert at decks and definitely do not advertise it but I have picked through all the threads mentioned and watched most youtube videos on the subject. I have done one deck and one small section of fence.
My advice is to invest a few bucks. It is probably the cheapest add on to experiment with. A pound or two of oxalic acid dry and in a proper storage container, two pump up sprayers and an “acid” or stiffer “deck” brush from home depot, a painters pole, gloves, mask, etc. All in for $50.
Your price for the time you think it would take is probably about right, but in reality, if you are experienced, that deck should or could be done in one hour or two tops. Your first time it probably will take you 3+ hours to do it well but so what? Dont bill your customer for your inexperience and learning curve. Go out and learn it then learn how to profit off of it.
If it is a really nice deck that you could absolutely mess up and ruin your reputation then damn right charge more, take your time, and blow them away. That deck though is more “just a porch deck” than an upscale “our house with a deck” deck. I’m rambling now.
Best practice would probably be to practice on your own or friends’ fence or deck.
Ultimately the process is fairly simple and repeatable but as others have said, each deck is different. Exact steps are found in those other posts. Good luck on the next one!
