this is the template i use for price shoppers who have bitten... but not swallowed the hook....
their reply to my initial estimate goes something like this:
peter:
I did get your estimate - but it is was much more than the other quote that I received. The price I got was to clean all the carpets, deodorize, remove all stains, and "scotchguard" - and clean all the tile as needed. $425. this was nearly 60% less than the price you gave me. I appreciate all your effort.
regards,
Dickhead.
... so i reply something like this:
Dickhead:
hopefully you've made an "apples to apples" comparison between my service and whoever else looked at the job...
not all services are created equal... purchasing services is different from purchasing commodities: if you're buying a gallon of milk, or pumping your vehicle full of fuel, obviously you would want to go with the lowest price... however, this general rule of thumb does not hold true for the purchasing of services.
some things to consider Dickhead:
will the person doing the work be an owner/operator... or an hourly waged, stoned kid or illegal immigrant?
what is this person's level of experience and what kind of formal training do they have?
is this business properly insured?
is this business an
IICRC certified firm?
http://www.certifiedcleaners.org/
what kind of guarantees (in writing) do they offer with regard to the results they will produce?
what kind of equipment, cleaning agents, and methods do they use?
can they provide you with solid references?
etc, etc, etc...
good luck Dickhead... i'm sure i don't need to tell you: "you get what you pay for". thanks for considering our service and if we can potentially serve you in the future, please don't hesitate to contact me.
regards,
jim duff
bozo-kleen
i have closed many jobs with a this kind of response.... yes - i negotiate.... but end up getting paid
cash upon completion... at close to my normal rate.
some people want to play ball... others will dick you around and around until you're blue in the face... use your instincts.
pete.