How to Create Professional Estimates That Win More Jobs

An estimate is more than just a price; it's a sales tool. A clear, detailed, and professional estimate builds trust and sets you apart from the competition. In contrast, a hastily written or vague quote can make customers feel uncertain and less likely to sign. Here’s how to create estimates that win.

1. Itemize Everything

Don't just put "Roof Repair - $1500". Break it down. List the individual components of the job, including labor and materials. For example:

• Labor: 4 hours @ $100/hr
• Materials: Shingles (2 bundles)
• Supplies: Roofing nails, sealant

This transparency shows the customer exactly what they're paying for and justifies your price. TradeCraft's line-item feature makes this easy, especially when pulling from a pre-built product catalog.

2. Include Clear Terms and Conditions

What are your payment terms? How long is the estimate valid? Is there a warranty on your work? Including these details upfront prevents misunderstandings later on. Common terms include:

• "Estimate valid for 30 days."
• "50% due upon acceptance, 50% due upon completion."
• "Includes a 1-year warranty on all labor."

3. Make it Easy to Approve

The easier it is for a customer to say "yes," the more likely they will. Sending a PDF that they have to print, sign, scan, and email back creates friction. A modern solution like TradeCraft allows you to send a link to a secure webpage where the customer can review the estimate and provide a digital signature for instant approval. This simple step can dramatically shorten your sales cycle.

4. Follow Up

Don't let your quotes go into a black hole. If you haven't heard back in a few days, a polite follow-up can make all the difference. Your FSM software should show you all estimates with a "Sent" status, making it easy to see who you need to contact.

5. Convert to a Job Instantly

Once the estimate is approved, the work begins. The best systems allow you to convert an approved estimate into a job with a single click. All the customer information, line items, and job details are automatically transferred, saving you from manual data entry and ensuring no details are lost.

By following these steps, you can transform your quoting process from a simple necessity into a powerful tool for winning more business.