Is getting a free quote providing more value for you? Find out if paying for one is better!
Explore which benefits the customer, and which benefits the handyperson? Can obtaining a free quote provide more value? - Why some offer free quotes and others charge?Can a free quote be misleading? - Ever wondered why so many tradies don’t show up? What is a free quote as a tradesperson, providing a service in Australia? A free quote is a business expense waived initially for a customer that is later charged or added to the final invoice with or without the preconceived knowledge from the client.
There is a charge, some are not upfront about it. Then why offer free quotes if it is not free! What’s in it for them? – Some advantages do come with free quotes. A foot in the door The handyperson does not have to ask too many questions. It makes it easier to accept most jobs and show up. They appear to be easygoing and ready for work. It may help the customer to remember them.
It can be more competitive Offering free quotes sets them apart from those who charge a fee. They compete with other businesses that provide free quotes.
A marketing tool Some sole traders and large companies may offer free quotes, as it is a bulk way to reach out to potential clients. A selling strategy used for many years. (Things were different back then) It can be used in their marketing materials, leading to a free quote button on a website with direct phone call to entice customers.
It can save time and effort Since a free quote remains an approximate calculation, it assumes and expects that the customer understands this. Usually, one total amount, without any breakdown of details, labour and material. An approximation is provided most often verbally, through email or a text message.
Alternatively, when the customer is ready for a detailed quote. – Then, the handyperson reveals their details and process and expects to be compensated. Either way, this avoids having an acute costing method and relies on agreeing with the customer to settle on final costs at the end, if prompted.
Let’s explore some disadvantages that come with free quotes No formal attachment in providing a quote Unfortunately getting a free quote technically remains a verbal agreement. Minimal details offered in exchange for their process, materials sourced, used etc. You can’t expect too much from a free quote that has a, don’t ask, don’t tell policy!
However, their success depends on their mannerisms, behaviours, and professional conduct, which may or may not be, an accurate representation
More flexible and less effort for the handyperson It takes time for a quote to be formulated, with all the correct and precise details. A handyperson that reflects their work, and has attention to detail needs to access every aspect of the work demands. From materials, labour etc. It is easier to show up and throw a random figure for most jobs – because it is free!
Whether you get a free quote or paid one, the end goal is to save time, expect a quality result and to reduce overall surprises! It is important to anticipate challenges and reduce unplanned financial surprises when hiring tradies. So you have to ask yourself, if obtaining a free quote provides more value?
Whether or not a handyperson offers free quotes, depends on what works best for their business, and the type of clients they choose to do business with!
Free quotes can be for a small, straightforward project like painting one wall or assembling a small table.
A quote is required for jobs with time constraints, choice of materials and research time. Multiple works/ jobs, complications, detailed installation, modifications, precision craftsmanship, and quality products requiring attention to detail.
What are some advantages, paying for a quotes? When paying, you can expect a detailed quote, saving time. All interactions are professional from the beginning and all costs are transparent.
With a paid quote, there is a fixed price and a written agreement from the start. There is accountability from the tradesperson to proceed with your project! Otherwise, their reputation begins to tarnish when picking and choosing jobs, based on financial reward.
Discussing the job or combination of jobs and what it entails. Preparing you for any anticipated challenges, risks and time constraints and setting realistic expectations.
If required, attending your premises a second time to combine other information obtained to assist in providing an accurate quote in return giving you a better job. (whatever it takes to do the best job)
Hold on … Obtaining 2-3 quotes can become expensive As expensive as it may be, should I ignore any other factors? Will my overall experience, from start to finish, be any different, when I pay for a quote? Ask several questions when a handyperson shows up and discuss realistic expectations! Here are some questions to get you started, you should base them on your needs Q. Do you have a unique approach to all different tasks?
Q. Our project size and budget is, and what does it achieve realistically?
Q What level of experience do you have?
Q. What variety of skills do you possess?
Q. Where have you gained the bulk of your knowledge and expertise?
Q. Can you multitask?
Q. Do you have experience in dealing with people with different backgrounds?
Q. Will you be the same handyperson quoted that arrives to do the job?
Q. How much detail is in the quote?
Q. How long does it take to provide the quote?
Q. How many years of experience do you have as a handyperson?
Q. What are your strengths, and what jobs will you not do?
Final things to consider when obtaining a free quote and why some charge? - The likelihood of closing the sale.
- The problem needs a licensed handyperson to navigate and do the work after all.
- Diagnosis required before planning the work.
- How accurate, thorough and relevant the quote is?
- What is documented in the quote? Does it reflect the interaction from the meeting?
- Is there any information missing on the quote?
- What information has been retained by the handyperson?
- Complexity, the discussion of several jobs or doing it randomly as you go along?
- What is missing in the quote?
- Realistic estimated time frames to complete one or several works combined!
- Their perceived knowledge of what it means, high-quality scope of deliverables?
- Quality of tools and results the handyperson will deliver!
- Response time to your questions/emails?
- Communication skills, articulating what needs doing.
As a licensed professional tradesman, who values his time and his clients, I charge for quotes.
So how much do you charge? A paid quote starts from $100+GST and upwards, depending on the size and complexity of the work. Quoting several items and installing will be on the lower end. While complete home makeovers, internal or external of your home, or both will be at the higher end.
I have a list of things I need to get done! I’ve researched online and noticed you have good reviews, provide a wide variety of skills, licensed and appear trustworthy. Why should I have to pay to find out how much the quote is going to cost me? Why ITS NEVER TOO LATE HANDYMAN SERVICE doesn’t offer free quotes To stay consistent with continually providing an honest transparent and trustworthy service that delivers quality work!
I do not just install or fix things to buildings, homes or commercial properties. I provide a personalised service and can cater to those who are particular and not only require the job done properly the first time, but also make it look good, which requires a thorough quote.
Charging for quotes means, I do not have to place into the pricing. I do not ask for additional payment unless unprecedented issues arise. I value being honest and transparent, so there is minimal surprises.
Ok, so what do I expect to see on your quote?
- A digital mobile, desktop-friendly, web platform quote sent to your email.
- The quote is unlimited in viewing and download friendly, any time of the day
- Date, full name, licence no. business details and address
- Ability to request references from previous clients
- Client details and the address/location of the work to be carried out
- Quote reference number
- An accurate description of what is covered by the quote and (if necessary) what is not
- A breakdown of the elements (labour, materials)
- Before and after pictures of the works in mention
- Estimated time frame to complete works
- Link to my current insurance certificate
- Payment terms
- Deposit amount
- Anticipated start date and time
- The total price
- Written 3yrs warranty
- Ability to print quote out
- Ability to accept and sign the quote digitally
- Bank details
- Quote terms and conditions
Trust is something you cannot search for or find, but experience!
People can be wary about letting strangers into their houses. ITS NEVER TOO LATE HANDYMAN SERVICE built the reputation and foundation on being polite and upfront.
Being clean, capable, and trustworthy puts us ahead of the competition.
Once you experience paying for quotes, you won’t expect anything less.
© ITS NEVER TOO LATE HANDYMAN SERVICE™ – Less work, more life balance 2023
- Business Name
- ITS NEVER TOO LATE HANDYMAN SERVICE
- Business Category
- Handymen
- Official Website
- intlhandyman.com.au
- Business Number
- 94 267 285 877
- Social Links
- Phone Number
- 0407 262 534
- Business Location
