I usually draw a sketch to illustrate what they want as close as posible then I proceed to estimate once they approve the preliminary and I always include a note that says the price might vary with approved drawings…
No
Very rarely do we give blind bids on construction/remodel projects.
Some equipment installations we will bid blindly but we always have a contract “rider” that allows for unforeseen issues.
We often eliminate “tire kickers” by posting an average price for a particular project.
While some projects may be similar, there are always subtle differences requiring differences in pricing.
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We never give blind bids because at the end is always a problem
It would give you more credibility to see and explain a project than throwing out a price.
Never do that unless it is something easy. If a home owner dosent want you to see the job before bidding just decline
Always measure or request dimensions for projects you are not able to see in person prior to submitting a bid. Ideally, it is always best to drive out to the project and take pictures in case you missed anything when going into the details as you write out the estimate.
It is a bad practice especially with bathrooms and kitchen remodeling and any type of installation calculated by square footage. If you are biding just a simple painting job then you may be accurate in giving a total price.
We would never offer an estimate without seeing the job and meeting with the potential client. There are just too many variables, selections etc. We will however give them a budget range based on the proposed scope of work.
This practice has proven to be not accurate. Therefore we refrain from doing so. However, Divine Home Remodeling does provide free on-site estimates.
No always try to do a site visit before quoting any prices
NO. That’s a recipe for disaster.
The only time I would quote without seeing is if the customer is a GC and knows exactly what they are looking for. They know what will make a variance in the cost, and they explain it to you thoroughly. They also know the measurements or have plans that you can glance at.
For regular customers, if they want a price without taking a look at the project, they are just price hunting anyway. So why even entertain them? IF they actually want your service they will ask you to swing by and take a look.
No you cant give a bid over the phone its not professional.
you can give a ballpark estimate, then you can help homeowner to know if he can do the project.
Exact bid can be given only after visiting the client’s property.
Never do that! We offer free estimates so we know exactly what needs to be done. I get several calls asking for bids over the phone but refuse to do it. I always tell them we can give a free estimate. It’s better for you so you’re not going in blindly and it also gives you and the customer a chance to build rapport with each other.
No, you should not do so. You should always try to see the project in person before giving a bid. You might consider giving them a rough estimate with sight unseen, but not a full final bid.
That wouldn’t be smart or accurate since you have to price everything.
Very difficult to give proper estimates without physically seeing the project. In my experience, most info described by customer may not be accurate, or the verbage used in the description of possible scope. Always my policy to meet with potential clients, take proper measurements, look for possible defects, and then determine the scope and cost.
Unfortunately, Many Moons Enterprises Is unable to give a bid without seeing the job at hand. This can cause huge misunderstandings in the long run if the particular amount is to little or to high.