I have just started using RAW images also (for reasons I won't bore you with).
The process of producing an image from a RAW capture is very subjective. I would find it quite disturbing to send someone a RAW file. You wouldn't know what atrocities they could perform. I have not taken photos for a living for many years (but I believe that professional denotes an attitude, not a price), so I am wondering if it is a common practice for clients to demand RAW files, and, more interestingly, how did you feel about giving up so much control to a client. Giving a RAW file is NOT like giving a film neg or pos.
Regards
Ray Moran