TOPIC: A bit disapointed

This morning I got a call for a quote on a 4500 Sqft home and the lady was shocked and said I was expensive. After I finished with her I went to check the competition and nearly dropped a brick in my shorts.
Some guys are quoting $375, that's what I charge for a 2000 sqft. My fee is for a 4500 is $590 and Mike Holmes Group charges $795 (sans infrared).

Don't these guys ever learn?

Sounds like you're middle of the pack then. Make sure to ask them what exactly they're getting for $375.

Gerry

I would say a lot depends on your area and what is offered by your company.

$590 around here for that size home is very steep.

I am doing a 4800 sq.ft home on Thursday for $425.

Questions I was forgetting to ask!!  How many heating, cooling, water heaters, electrical panels, pools, Hot tubs, outbuildings are there. (Would find out I was inspecting a lot more than I quoted)

I feel your pain about losing inspections to low ballers and price shoppers but last week I started asking more questions and for the client wanting cheap I just asking right at the beginning if price is there only concern. No need to waste my/their time.

My report package option that I have enhanced can be excluded thus lowering the price $25.

For example this client on Thursday is a qualified professional and does not need the information a typical 1st time buyer would.

I also now use the HIP as a negotiating tool in price shopping.

I offer a report with no pics for $10 less. (Or more I should say)

Again sorry for your pain.

Sounds like you're middle of the pack then. Make sure to ask them what exactly they're getting for $375.

I told the lady if the report is anything less than 10-15 pages to run and demand here money back. Also if they do not go into the attic (seems to becoming the norm with low ballers around here) same thing. Shhhh... I truly blame the real estate agents for this state of affairs.  :-X

David

That is about the middle of the pack and at one time the norm.
I give discounts of $30 for going paperless. Give a 100% money back guarantee. I advise them my reports on average are 30 pages compared to some in the area who have 4 - 5 pages. etc....

That is a great reminder about asking questions not only does it help you make an accurate quote it opens their eyes to that there may be more to an inspection than they initially thought.

It's not the pain I feel for myself I have a c'est la vie attitude. It's a pain I feel for the industry here where people could be making much more and instead of taking the high road they take the low road to cater to agent's. I try to advise guy's, market your service not your price and in the long run you'll have a better lifestyle. But thank's for feeling it.

David, $590 Canadian = about $510 US