In an effort to reduce the unbilled hours (as much as practical), I no longer do free estimates. Usually this discourages the shoppers and encourages the buyers. In a moment of weakness I did a 2 hour free estimate on a job (grumbling for hours after). I did get the contract, so all is well, but I have a terrible time explaining it well on the phone.
I don't want to say "I don't do free estimates", but often it ends up a version of that. It's easy when it's an emergency, but when it's a small remodeling project like changing some fixtures or adding an outlet, people want a free estimate. I used to do it & many around here do it also. I don't mind loosing the little jobs, but this one I got this week could easily turn into $5-10,000 this year. If I hadn't spent the 2 hours with her, and stuck to the deal of "I charge a small fee to come out and then give you a price up front" I could have lost it.
HELP!!!
Dave
