The Paid Estimate Blueprint | Step Into a More Profitable Process (Part 1)
In a world where contractors are constantly running around doing free estimates, the Hammer & Grind podcast delivers a game-changing approach, The Paid Estimate Blueprint. This system isn't just about charging for your time. It’s about positioning yourself as a premium professional, protecting your schedule, and increasing your profitability.
Here’s a breakdown of the key insights from the episode, plus actionable steps to start using this blueprint in your own business.
Key Takeaways
1. Charge for Your Expertise
Charging for estimates is not just about covering your time; it’s about valuing your expertise. When you provide a consultation, you’re offering more than just a price. You’re sharing your knowledge, best practices, and professional advice, which is worth a significant amount.
2. Setting the Right Price
The minimum you should charge for a consultation is $250. This amount ensures that the client values your time and expertise. If you’re struggling to charge this amount, start smaller and gradually increase your fees. Remember, the goal is to make the client feel the investment, ensuring they are serious about their project.
3. The Process
The Paid Estimate Blueprint involves a structured process:
Initial Contact: Whether through your website or direct contact, the first step is to gather basic information and pictures of the project.
Discovery Call: This call is to understand the client’s needs, discuss the project, and provide a ballpark estimate.
Onsite Consultation: If the client agrees to the ballpark estimate, schedule an onsite consultation, which is a paid service.
4. Pre-Selling Over the Phone
The key to this process is pre-selling the client over the phone. By the time you go for the onsite consultation, the client is already 95% sold. This approach saves time and ensures that you’re only spending time on serious prospects.
5. Handling Objections and Adjustments
If you find that the project scope changes significantly during the onsite consultation, be prepared to adjust your estimate and communicate openly with the client. Offering to refund the consultation fee if the project cost exceeds the initial ballpark can build trust and transparency.
Action Steps
1. Implement a Structured Process on Your Website
Ensure your website clearly outlines your process. Include steps for initial contact, submission of project pictures, and scheduling a discovery call. Provide clear instructions on how to take and submit pictures to avoid any confusion.
2. Conduct Effective Discovery Calls
Prepare a set of questions to ask during the discovery call. Focus on understanding the client’s needs, their budget, and the project scope. Use this call to provide a ballpark estimate and gauge the client’s seriousness about the project.
3. Set and Communicate Your Fees
Decide on your minimum consultation fee and communicate this clearly to potential clients. Ensure they understand the value they are receiving and that this fee will be credited back if they proceed with the project.
The Paid Estimate Blueprint is a game-changer for contractors looking to save time and increase their profit margins. By charging for estimates, conducting thorough discovery calls, and pre-selling clients over the phone, you can ensure that your time is spent on serious prospects who value your expertise. Implement these steps today and transform the way you do business.
Resources
Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint
