💡 Why I Stopped Doing Free Estimates — The Real Cost of “Free” in Contracting!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xc3vmfEo_u8
In this video, Courtney Lee breaks down the hidden cost behind “free estimates” and why so many contractors are unknowingly losing money, time, and opportunities by giving away their expertise for free.
👉 A recent example: a homeowner called after already getting a quote from another hardwood floor company now she’s just “shopping around” with their number. This is exactly why I stopped doing free estimates and started charging for consultations instead.
When you charge for your time, you’re not just asking for money you’re setting a professional boundary that filters out price shoppers and attracts serious clients who value expertise.
💰 Benefits of Charging for Consultations:
Filters out tire-kickers: Only serious clients will invest in your time.
Positions you as an expert: Pros charge for their knowledge, not just their labor.
Creates perceived value: Your time becomes part of your brand, not a giveaway.
Increases close rate: Clients who pay for consultations are more likely to book.
Covers travel & time costs: You’re compensated even when a project doesn’t move forward.
⚖️ Pros of Charging for Consultations:
✅ You gain authority and respect.
✅ You attract higher-quality, serious clients.
✅ You spend less time chasing unqualified leads.
⚠️ Cons (and how to handle them):
❌ Some leads may walk away but they probably weren’t going to buy anyway.
❌ You’ll get fewer calls, but more profitable ones.
❌ You’ll need to clearly explain the value turn your consultation into an education session, not just a “look and quote.”
🚫 The Downside of Free Estimates:
You attract price shoppers, not clients who respect your skill.
You waste time driving, explaining, and quoting often for nothing.
You train people to undervalue your expertise.
You end up working harder but earning less.
💼 Takeaway:
If you’re in a highly populated area, chances are you’re competing with hundreds of contractors who still offer “free estimates.”
Start separating yourself — charge for consultations, provide real value, and turn your business into a premium brand that commands respect and higher profits.
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https://www.trumanhardwoodrefinishing.com/
