The Myth of Free Estimates

There's a lot of back and forth on socials about whether contractors should be charging for estimates. Before we can argue this point, we need to define a few terms.    Estimate.  An estimate is also known as an informed guesstimate; a rough (non-binding) verbal quote based upon the parameters provided.    Proposal or bid.  A declaration of the scope and estimated cost (binding) based upon a greater level of detail, typically following a site inspection by the bidder.   If you provide something verbal, an educated guess of an estimate, based upon rough details provided by the client, then a FREE (non-binding) estimate may be appropriate. "Based on what you have described to me, your rough cost would be in the range of $______ and $______. If it sounds like we understand your scope and the numbers are in your budget range, would you like to discuss the next steps for having an estimator perform a more detailed inspection followed by a written proposal?   There is no such thing as a free lunch, someone is paying. STOP perpetuating the MYTH of the free estimate. In the free estimate scenario, you pay all the costs to bid on the work. AT A MINIMUM, please screen your clients so you know what you are getting into. We discussed the Client Intake Process in Episode 86 of The DYOJO Podcast.   If you have a clear, thorough, and consistent process for client intake, you will generate credibility with the client and set your team up for success. You will know whether the juice (Free Estimate) is worth the squeeze (Your actual costs of inspecting, writing, and producing a free estimate).   THIS IS A CLIP FROM THE DYOJO PODCAST EPISODE 90    More on this topic:   * Article - "The Four Modes of Profitability for The Contractor" in an upcoming in-print version of C&R Magazine   * Blog post - TheDYOJO.com/blog      Thursdays are for The DYOJO Podcast - helping you shorten your DANG learning curve for personal and professional development.      Thank You To Our Sponsors:     The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a professional certification and standard-development non-profit organization for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration industries.      Advocate Claim Service was founded to provide policyholders, brokers, and attorneys with a dedicated claim professional to develop a comprehensive claim presentation strategy. Read David Princeton's column, Dear David, in C&R Magazine.      Author Jon Isaacson, The Intentional Restorer, shares his two decades of professional experience to help anyone involved with, or interested in, the art of estimating to shorten their DANG learning curve for improvement. How To Suck Less At Estimating: Habits For Better Project Outcomes.