How do you write annual, yearly estimates?

[rreyn1812]

Just talked with one of my customers today and started working on an estimate based on his desire to have a single monthly payment for each of the 12 months. This year he paid me up front for 20 mowings. I calculated my mowings based on 31 for 2013, basically mid-March through mid-October. I figure this would be just about worst case for our location, but I would rather err on my side versus his. Any excess balance due the customer at the end of the year would roll-over to 2014. Quick Books Pro keeps track of the balance for me at all times. I also figure on Crepe Myrtle pruning in late Feb, and 3 major flower bed cleanings per year. I figure on 3 fertilizer applications and 3 weed sprayings. The process is the same, no matter the customer, but each will be unique based on the property & the geographical location. My customer only has 5 small trees, so there aren't many leaves to take care of. Weather is also a major factor, and this year, I would have only made two fertilizer applications.

[1stcall]

No problem,... My web site is www.MyTexasLawn.com where you may find a few other tips. I have used use Lawn Pro 3 for about five years to track, invoice, schedule and estimate jobs. It may not be the best software but for the price it is hard to beat. Good luck with your company!

[GreyFlames]

Typically installment plans are fixed pricing. If you can't mow or don't have to during a drought then you do not refund the money. The same goes the other way however. If you need to do an extra mowing in the spring or fall because of unseasonably warm weather, you can not charge extra.

On a separate note, you need to mention in the fine print that if the customers cancels you will take a final accounting and send them any remaining portion or a bill if money is due. If a customer cancels in April and you have billed them since January then their will be money owed to the customer. If they cancel in November, chances are they will owe you.

I would also try to pair installment billing with automatic credit card payments. This way you get money at the beginning of the month, instead of waiting for the invoice to reach them and they take their time paying it.

Best of luck.