You don’t need me to say this, but winning work is the name of the game in the competitive residential building sector. Yet, let’s be realistic, not every quotation you send out will convert into a signed contract. But that shouldn’t put you off using a professional service every time. I know I’m bound to say that, but hear me out. As Managing Director of HBXL, I’m investing in the future of my business every day, trying to think about long term benefits, not just short term fixes. And it pays off.
Rather than focussing on the projects you don’t win, flip your thinking. Think of the investment you’ve made in the ones that you do win.
What if you looked at commissioning HBXL to produce a speculative quote not as an expense, but as an investment in your business’s future? Let’s explore why this mindset matters and how it can transform the way you approach quoting.
The Bigger Picture of Quoting
Think of the many ways you invest in your business to attract and retain customers:
- You brand your van with signage to make an impression wherever you go
- You wear clothing branded with your logo
- You place ads in local magazines to build awareness of your services
- You maintain an online presence, from your website to social media, showcasing your work.
These efforts are all about marketing – presenting your business in the best possible light to potential customers. And a professionally crafted quotation is no different. It’s a marketing tool that demonstrates your professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering quality work.
By commissioning HBXL’s Estimating Service, you’re not just producing a quote; you’re crafting a compelling argument for why you’re the right builder for the job. A detailed, professional-looking quotation speaks volumes about your business, even to customers who ultimately choose someone else. You’re leaving a lasting impression, showing that you take their project seriously and are willing to invest time and effort into their vision. That’s a powerful message that can lead to referrals or even future opportunities.
The Psychology of Investing in a Quote
It’s easy to see quoting as a numbers game, but it’s so much more than that. Customers are looking for more than just a price; they’re looking for trust. They want to know that the builder they choose will handle their project with care and competence. When you present a comprehensive, clear, and visually appealing quotation, you’re telling a story: “I’m the professional you’ve been searching for.”
On the flip side, a hastily prepared, generic quote might save you a bit of time or money in the short term, but it won’t inspire confidence. Worse, it could harm your reputation. Even if the customer doesn’t pick you for this job, they’re likely to remember you for all the wrong reasons.
Investing in a professional quote is about more than just one project. It’s about building your reputation as a builder who takes pride in their work and values their customers’ time and money. This perception can make all the difference when a homeowner is comparing multiple builders.
Speculative Quotes are a smart business move
Yes, there’s a cost to speculative quotes. But isn’t that true of all forms of marketing? You don’t expect an immediate return on every pound you spend branding your van or advertising online. Instead, you understand that these investments create a foundation for attracting the right customers over time.
The same is true for instructing HBXL’s Estimating Service. When you invest in a professionally prepared quote, you’re increasing your chances of securing the right jobs. You’re also signalling to prospective clients that you run a professional, well-organised business.
The Long term benefits of investing in your future
Consider the potential return on investment of a detailed, expertly prepared quote:
1. Higher Win Rates: Customers are more likely to choose a builder who provides a thorough and professional estimate over one who offers something rushed and incomplete.
2. Stronger Referrals: Even if you don’t win the job, you’re showing customers that you’re a serious professional. They might recommend you to friends or family based on their positive impression.
3. Improved Reputation: Over time, your reputation for professionalism and attention to detail will help you stand out in a crowded market.
4. More Targeted Projects: A professional quote can help you identify customers who value quality over cost, leading to better-fit projects in the future.
Why Choose HBXL’s Estimating Service?
Our service is designed to give you the best chance of success. At HBXL, we say ‘success is made on your laptop, not on site’. With HBXL, you’re getting more than just numbers on a page. You’re receiving:
- Detailed Costings: We factor in every detail, ensuring accuracy and transparency
- Experienced professionals: You’re getting knowledgeable people with a keen eye for any issues
- Dedicated estimator: You’re assigned one estimator from start to finish
- Independent: We’re not tied to any one builders’ merchants
- Quality first: We’re not the fastest because we take the time to get it right
- Professional Presentation: Our quotes look amazing and are easy for customers to understand
- 3D models: A free set of 3D models of your estimated project, subject to suitability.
Most importantly, we understand the building industry. We know what customers are looking for and what it takes to stand out.
We’re here to help you make the best possible impression, every time. Because in this competitive industry, it’s the builders who invest in themselves who come out on top. Investing in your future with us will pay off. We look forward to your future estimating being with us.
Give me a call on 0117 916 7894 or email: estimatingservice@hbxl.co.uk or upload your full set of plans to our plans uploader on the website here.
