The Dos and Don’ts of Quoting Jobs On-Site

Home Pro Heroes

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Trivia Question❓

Which non-verbal factor has been shown to influence how trustworthy a professional appears during in-person estimates?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Dos and Don’ts of Quoting Jobs On-Site

Quoting a job on-site can either build trust—or break it. In home services, the way you present your quote is just as important as the number on the page. It sets the tone for the entire project and can mean the difference between landing the job and losing it to a competitor. That’s why having a consistent, professional, and well-thought-out approach to quoting is essential.

Let’s start with the dos. First, do walk the property with the customer. This shows transparency, allows them to point out their concerns, and gives you context for the quote. It’s also a great chance to demonstrate your expertise by identifying issues the client may have overlooked—just be careful not to make it sound like a sales pitch.

Next, do break down your quote into clear, itemized sections. A lump-sum number can feel arbitrary to a customer. But when you explain each part—labor, materials, optional upgrades—they’re more likely to see the value and understand the pricing. It also protects you if questions or disputes arise later.

Do use mobile estimating tools or quote-building apps if possible. Digital quotes look more professional, reduce math errors, and can often be emailed or texted before you leave the property. That immediacy keeps the conversation going while you’re still top of mind.

Now, for the don’ts. Don’t throw out a number off the top of your head. Even if you’ve done the same job a hundred times, rushing to answer without fully evaluating the scope can lead to underquoting—or sticker shock when you adjust the number later. Take your time and be thorough.

Don’t overpromise to close the deal. If you say the job can be done in two days when it really takes five, that’s going to hurt your reputation and possibly cost you in refunds or bad reviews. Set clear, realistic expectations upfront.

And finally, don’t ignore the emotional side of pricing. Homeowners want to feel like they’re making a smart, safe choice. Be confident, professional, and reassuring. Your tone and clarity can build trust—even when your quote isn’t the cheapest one they get.

In the end, quoting isn’t just a step in the sales process—it’s a moment to show your value. Nail that moment, and you’re on your way to a long-term customer.

Keep hammering away and we'll talk soon!

The Home Pro Heroes Team

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💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Body language and eye contact

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