mobilemike

I just recently got a job from an estimate I gave and I was 100.00 higher than the other guy. I bid 300.00 to his 200.00. I got the job, because the lady told me that I got there quicker than the other guy and that she just simply liked me better ( not trying to brag here ). She did show me his estimate. So, there is value in showing up timely and with a great "can-do" attitude, and then just let the cards fall where they may. So, selling one's self is easier in person I feel. For long distances ( outside 20 miles ), I will do it ( free estimate ) only if I'm heading that way anyway and I have a good feel for the customer. If I'm not heading that way, I will ask about the project and then give them an "estimate" over the phone.

Not trying to beat a dead horse here, but Xerox invented the wheel, Steve jobs perfected the wheel, Bill Gates stole it.:) Also, Bill Gate's Microsoft was built with a multitude of people offering him suggestions - which is what is being offered to Ollie right now. I've found this place a great place to learn the trade and I'm sure Ollie will as well if he sticks with it.

I need to clean this algae or whatever the plant form is off this roof and it's a steep aluminum roof - can't walk on. Already cleaned roof with Chlorine and water with a little soap, but this growth remains. Any help would be appreciated.

thanks travis, i had thought about that..might try it. i still find myself having to get up at least half way up the roof though.

I was just asked to give a quote on vinyl siding at an apartment complex. The siding has little dark spots on it which I believe to be mildew because I have washed these before and have had success using a bleach solution. My question is: How much do I charge per square foot? I usually bid by the piece but there is so much to this apartment complex, I'm not sure where to start. Any help would be appreciated. Mike

Thanks again for the input you guys. The idea about hiring someone else ( competitor ) to help out with this is a good idea. I will take that into consideration. I will present the bid tommorrow and then we'll see what happens. And yes...I think the reasons stated above are good reasons to get some additional help on this job. Bryan, On this job, it was a referral from a commercial property management firm here in town that I had done some work for. On my drive home from giving this bid, I saw a couple of other apartment complexes that were totally filthy. This was the first time I had even paid attention to them. The manager of the complex called me. I would probably just get on the phone and start calling property managers or the specific apartment complex ( as in this case ).

My mistake on this.:lgtear: Buildings are 2 story....but still 68,000 feet for whole project. Doesn't look like i'll need a lift to get it done. I don't have any employees, so will have to hire some help. I think I will bid high...probably the .07 per sq.ft. I appreciate all the feedback. This is a big job....I've done the smaller apartment buildings. Would most of you consider this a 2 person job? Thanks, Mike

I appreciate all the feedback. The building is a two story condo complex consisting of about 10 buildings. The one day I forget to bring my digital camera with me, was today when I went to look and talk to the manager. Sheesh! Wish I had pics. I did find one similiar looking apartment complex on google. It's attached.

Gene, I've found that the best customers usually aren't the ones shopping for the lowest prices, but are more impressed with the person who will be doing the job for them. So...forget about it and move onto the next customer.

That's why I canceled the subscription to our liberal rag of a paper here in town and why I listen to talk radio.

wow...my first post. and what a topic to post on. yes, what a tragedy and frankly with everything that is going on in this country, i'm actually surprised we haven't seen more of these events. i mean really, guns and violence are glorified in music, and other media and we wonder why this is happening. i do share your " unpopular belief " though david, that if someone had carried a firearm other than the shooter, maybe some lives would have been saved. it is interesting that CNN jumps so hastily on gun control, and doesn't address issues such as the violence espoused in modern music. anyway, this forum has been a great tool in learning my profession because of the quality of members and the quality of info posted here. let's keep positive even when things can be so depressing at times.