The Business of Sales Quotes

Are your initial sales quotes valid?

When a prospect asks for a ballpark quote, do you stop to get all of their input first and ask what their budget is? If the package (several services bundled) is uncomplicated, offer 3 packages or quotes; if complicated only 2 so that the prospect will have a choice rather than “yes” or “no”. More importantly, stay close to the original estimate.

We asked for the cost of work to be done on a home prior to purchasing. The quote was well within budget and we proceeded with the purchase. Now the quote is triple of the original estimate. No acknowledgement was made on part of the service provider that the price trippled. He made no apology, did not point out changes to the plans between then and now, and did not offer any reason as to why this was the case.

The sudden change in fee left a feeling of being taken and a tinge of dishonesty on his part. Rather than feeling stuck, we are in the process of getting more bids. Had he taken careful notes through the process he would still have the business and enjoyed a very Smooth Sale!