Deere John
LawnSite Senior Member
- Location
- Northern Ontario, Canada
Hi again. The phone rang yesterday to request a quote on plowing a small road system with 6 houses. All but one of the houses have their drives done too, and all contribute to the road. I have done it in the past (6 years ago) and as far as I know, they have a different contractor each and every year. It wasn't bad work - I easily earned my target rate here.<br> Here's my question. It seems that each year about this time, when I least expect it, I get requests for quotes (usually full-service requests) and I oblige with a prompt, written quote. My batting average for these June quotes is 1 and 9 for a November start, but 3 of the 9 have called in February in various years requesting to be picked up for service when the other guy became unreliable. How should I quote this work at my rates at this time of year without giving them the ammo they are (really) looking for to seek a less expensive contractor?? They will not commit in June, but I want to work on that part. <br> These requests burn my bottom - they are one small step higher up the ladder than phone-only solicitations. (I never tell the competition my rates over the phone - - bad for business). Your thoughts and experiences would be appreciated.<p>John<br>