Trying to get a quote for house renos

[bunny0410]

and the lady on the phone asks if I'm married?

Then proceeds too ask when my OH is home so the consultant can come and give a quote?

How rude!

Apparently I am not capable of standing and watching some dude measure my guttering!

[dalyssmum]

Oh yes, I've had a shutter company pull that one on me.  I view it as a sign that they will exert high pressure to sign up there and then.  They don't want the woman to put off accepting the quote by saying "I just want to talk to my husband about it" which I'll admit is a convenient excuse to enable gathering of more quotes before selecting one of them.

I automatically steer clear of any organisation that puts that one on, as I don't want to be subjected to that pressure.

[i-need-a-martini]

Realistically if you are a tradesperson or someone offering a service (like martini(), you can't expect every quote you give to be accepted.

Of course not. 

But when it comes to quoting on more complicated renovations for the house, often the only one that can really explain the extent of the works is the trades person. Or in my case, I have to explain a concept or a vision for a design. In both cases, it is much better to have all the stakeholders hearing it from the horses mouth.

Guttering isn't quite in the same category. Should be a no-brainer. Except if the company rep works on commission - then he'll want both people there to sign on the dotted line before he goes.

[blondie.inc]

Agree with Dalyssmum...wanting the partner to be there at the time of quoting avoids the "I will show my husband and we will let you now" scenario. A way of pressuring a commitment on the spot.

Don't be insulted.

When I have been in this situation I let them know that whilst my husband will not be available, I am making the decision. I also tell them up front that I am seeking 3 quotes and deciding within the week, and that price is not my only consideration.

I find that when you remove pricing from the table that the pricing is good and the service is better.

Good Luck with your guttering...:-x