+ Background:

We have a concept for a television drama/soap and intend to pitch it
to a television network. Initially we'll try for a UK-based commercial
network, but will look further afield if that fails.

A pilot has been filmed on a minimal budget (mostly for equipment
hire) and is almost ready to go. One of the first questions a
potential buyer will ask is "how much per episode?", and I'm looking
for advice on how to answer that question.

+ Assumptions and details:

- The show is intended to be in a half-hour format, screening five nights a week.

- We would produce the episodes. That is, we're not just selling a
concept, and we're not expecting a network to want to produce the
show.

- We are starting from scratch. That is, since we don't have a
functional studio, we need to source equipment and a production team.

- We don't expect to use well known actors who may demand high
renumaration. We have a small team of actors we can hire.

+ Thoughts:

There might be two ways to work out a price to pitch:

1. Add up the costs to derive a price.
2. Find out how much networks pay for similar shows and work from there.

So, I'd appreciate any information you can dig up on what networks
typically spend on television soaps. I realise figures may vary
wildly, but examples might be helpful. Alternatively, information on
production tasks and associated costs could be helpful.