How to write an estimate customers say yes to

How do you write an estimate a customer will say yes to? You’ve seen the job, and you know roughly what it costs. Now you want to know what goes on the page, and how to get the yes back fast.

Two things can go wrong. An estimate that leaves things out comes back as a phone call full of questions. One that shows up a week later can lose the job to whoever priced it first. That’s what it looks like when quotes take too long.

What should an estimate include?

Five things. The job, each cost, what’s not included, how long the price holds, and how to say yes. At the top, add your name and number, the customer’s name, and the date. Write it once as an estimate template. Then each new job is just filling in lines.

• The job, in plain words. “Replace the water heater in the garage” beats “plumbing work.”
• Each cost on its own line. Parts, labor, and fees, with the total at the bottom. The customer can see what they’re paying for.
• What’s not included. Permits, drywall repair, anything they might think is in the price. Writing it down now saves the argument later.
• A date the price holds until. Parts prices change. A date protects you, and it gives the customer a reason to decide.
• One way to say yes. A button, a signature, or a reply. Not “let us know.”

Here’s a simple estimate template in use, with made-up prices:

Example. The prices are made up. Total $1,745. Not included: permit fee, drywall repair. Price good until November 10. To say yes: tap Accept.

Is it an estimate or a quote? People use the two words loosely. A quote often means a fixed price. An estimate is your best guess, and it can change. So write which one it is at the top. If you can’t be sure until you open the wall, say what would change the price. The five parts are the same either way, so this is also how to write a quote.

How fast should you send an estimate?

The same day you see the job, while it’s fresh for both of you. You remember the measurements. They remember your visit. Each day it waits is a day they can ask someone else.

Make the yes just as quick. If saying yes means print, sign, and scan, it waits for the weekend. A button on the estimate they’re already reading doesn’t wait.

In Income Mavericks, an estimate can go by text or email, and the customer taps to accept. It can also go out as a document they sign. Once they sign, it turns into the invoice on its own.

After it’s sent, there are two next steps. If nothing comes back, follow up on a set day. Once they say yes, turn the estimate into the invoice.

Five parts, written once, and sent the day you see the job. The customer gets your price while they still remember your visit.