When I calculate the price of a job I estimate the number of days
(and/or half-days) it will take to do the work then add the price of
materials. Included in the labor estimate is time to set the room up
correctly, prep the walls well, and clean up to military standards. I
can't know how much labor will be required until I look at the room. If
the job is more complex, I use a spreadsheet to calculate labor, using
industry standard labor rates. So my estimates are pretty close. I want to
work, so I price jobs for as little money as I want to work for. If a
competitors price is much lower than mine, he/she is either a
station-wagon bandit, or a lowest price competitor. And I don't mind
losing work to them.
When there is an opening in my calendar. I'll schedule the project when
I've received a signed proposal and a small deposit. I ask for a deposit
to help me feel comfortable turning other work away. I schedule plenty of time
for each project.
My wife will sometimes help me with removing wallpaper, set-up, or
cleanup. Otherwise I'm alone. The upside
to my working alone is that you get the guy who is responsible, and
concerned about his reputation. The downside is that I'm on jobs longer
than contractors with crews.
Yes. I have a million dollars of liability insurance. I provide a copy
of a certificate of insurance in my introduction folio. On the certificate
of insurance is contact information for my insurance broker. A phone call
to them will verify the data, and enable you to get a certificate
addressed to you.
Before I work for you, you will have a list of previous clients
who have offered to speak on my behalf. If a friend referred me, well that
is a pretty good sign that I'll serve you well. After I do the work, you
have my iron clad, 'don't pay me,' guarantee. If I don't do the job we've
agreed on, show me what needs to be improved, and I'll do make the change.
I won't debate with you. I'm in business to make people happy. If you are
still unsatisfied, don't pay me.
The guarantee document is part of my introduction folio.
Yes. I have a two page list of people who have offered to speak on my
behalf. You may even know someone on the list.
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