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He's getting FIVE quotes

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December 14, 2013 at 4:05 p.m.

OLE Willie

I had one estimate left this week that I was unable to get done before the end of the day on Friday so I called him up this morning even though I didn't feel like working on the weekend and went over to meet him at his home.

He was not home when I called and told me to go on over and get started with measurements etc. and he would be there shortly. So I had all the numbers and most everything ready when the guy pulls up, jumps out and starts talking about the fact that he has already received two estimates, this guy said that, the other guy said this, I'm the third and he's got two more coming. :angry:

I considered just driving off right there on the spot after hearing that but was somehow able to control myself and follow through with the routine professionally even though on top of him getting 5 bids he was also acting like an arse.

I just threw him a hint and said " I don't try to be cheaper or higher, I just try to be better at a fair price ".

I had managed to turn every single lead from the source he called from into a job until this guy came along so I didn't bother to pre-qualify him. Oh well, had to happen sooner or later I guess.

Did I mention the bid was for a 9 sq. shed roof in the very back of the property behind the detached garage which was behind the house? :S

December 17, 2013 at 6:12 p.m.

OLE Willie

I had 3 requests for estimates right after this guy on Monday. I was able to line all 3 appointments up for Monday afternoon.

All 3 signed up on the spot at a fair price with no competition. One already had two other companies attempt to stop the leaks. I did that one today.

All they did was make a big mess with caulking all over everything. Made it harder for me but I got rid of it all and completely re-did the entire area as it should have been when originally roofed.

This guy had already experienced "cheap" and was ready to have it fixed "right". Price had become only a "minor" concern.

December 15, 2013 at 1:43 p.m.

OLE Willie

I can understand if someone wants a second opinion and price but FIVE on a small job? He simply wasn't one of my type of clients. When filling out forms online they check the "ready to hire" box. They want a skilled professional and they usually don't shop the price around unless it's a larger job.

If anyone thinks that someone with 2-3 years experience can provide them with the same level of service and quality that I can on a detailed repair that I'm personally working on and supervising after 30 years in the roofing business they are just naive and ignorant.

I stay too busy with fair paying jobs to waste my time working for less than it will take to stay in business and support my family. I'd rather pass on the price shoppers and focus on the mental aspects of business while resting up physically for the next decent paying project.

December 14, 2013 at 7:21 p.m.

OLE Willie

You hit the nail on the head twill and I detected such. I had to let him know in a professional way that Willie don't roll that way. ;) ( I gave him a few stipulations of my own including a 1/3 deposit before I would do the work ).

I doubt if I ever hear from the guy again and I sit here right now thinking that I wouldn't want to work for him anyways.

He can stick that deck in a special place. :ohmy:

December 14, 2013 at 5:15 p.m.

OLE Willie

I just threw him a hint and said " I don't try to be cheaper or higher, I just try to be better at a fair price ".

Is this not about the same thing?

December 14, 2013 at 4:34 p.m.

theroofmedic1

Next time you have a character like this, getting a dozen bids ask him or her this,"WOW! that's a lot of bids, what are you looking for?" If you are looking for the cheapest price- I'm never the cheapest nor the most expensive, I'm usually in the middle." Just my humble thoughts


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