Greetings Fellow TileSetters,

This has been a great week for "Bids", Proposals/Estimates I suppose. I followed the advice of trusted peers and started charging $30 for each written Tile Estimate. In these Proposals/Contracts I specify the materials being used, exact measurements of rooms to be tiled, as well as any design specifications (on a Diamond, Versailles, Brick, Etc.)

Maybe some of you feel it is inappropriate to charge for an estimate, however, this is your time and energy being dispensed. I've ended up with 4 pink sheets this week alone, the customer keeps the original and one yellow of a three part set. Should they accept the contract, and sign......I apply whatever they paid me for the estimate, back to the balance. In essence, they receive a "Free Estimate".

The primary reason for me charging was to discourage folks who just wanna waste time "kick tires". However, I find that an individual who has already paid for a written estimate, on professional document, is much more likely to call you back. The bids I write are good for 90 days. One lady even called today to let me know she would be sending a deposit check, so that I could begin work on her project immediately after my current Marble Entryway.

This is just a suggestion, be very confident in acquiring the job. You are a professional looking out for your own prosperity, and instilling confidence in the customer. Always carry a 24" level & 48" level into the clients home, with a tape measure handy. Also, a photo portfolio really helps out, as you make you way around the rooms measuring, they can be browsing your photos. At this time they will remember to ask any questions they may have.

The customer usually trusts me at this point, and begins arranging for a hidden key or to leave a way for me into their home. I familiarize myself with their water and electrical hookups, and agree on the best place for wetsaw setup & mortar mixing.
Always bring canvas dropclothes to protect surrounding areas, and plastic sheeting for outside.

I know, they just love a sqeaky-clean image, and you can do this!

Respectfully,

Randy Lofthouse

P.S. (a splash of incense, like Patchulli/Lavender....I use Texas Cedarwood Oil, helps soften the atmosphere, unlike an overpowering cologne/repellent )

Best of Luck

Brilliant post Randy.....I thank you....Gaz

Good man Randy, keep up the good work!

Yes, great post..and even greater idea. It does take a lot of time and not to mention FUEL to do estimates. If you can make a little bit back on each one, all the better.