Test the carpet and watch out for Belgian Wiltons. I find hot powerburst does the ticket, good dwell and agitation. Rinse with acidic rinse to stabilise if it's wool, hot water helps. Pubs are no better or worse than anything else but I would agree a final price, and terms. Pubs etc I normally insist on payment on completion or pop back in the morning if I do them overnight. As to whether it's a good time, given your experience and the knowledge of the market place you're working in you may be the best judge. If you're starting cold it would be hard work with marketing and finding work but if you have contacts it might be easier. If you're planning on starting your own business you'll be in competition with your old boss, If you're doing it on the side your employer may not be too chuffed, if that's the case would you get your own gear?
Good luck.