The Side Hustle Playbook
A clear quote does more than name your price. It helps the customer understand what they are buying, what happens next, and why your business deserves the job.
When those details are missing, even an interested buyer may hesitate. They could be wondering whether supplies cost extra, whether the appointment is confirmed, or whether your price includes the work they actually need.
Answer Five Questions Before Sending
Every quote should make five details easy to find:
- What work is included?
- What is the total price?
- When can the work happen?
- Who provides the materials or supplies?
- Which services cost extra?
Add the customer’s name, service location, quote date, and a clear acceptance step. If the price depends on information you have not verified, identify that uncertainty.
Use a Quote Customers Can Follow
The following example uses illustrative pricing:
“Thank you for requesting a lawn-care quote for [address]. The price is $65 per visit for mowing the front and back yards, edging accessible hard surfaces, and blowing clippings off the driveway and sidewalks.
“This quote assumes the lawn condition shown in your photos. Bagging, hauling, shrub trimming, and unusually heavy growth are outside this scope and would receive separate pricing.
“I provide the equipment and fuel. My next available visit is [date], weather permitting. Reply ‘Approve’ if you would like me to confirm the appointment.”
The customer can now assess a specific offer instead of guessing what “full lawn service” means.
Explain Changes Before Doing Extra Work
A cleaner may discover a larger job than the photos suggested. A maker may receive a request for additional personalization after quoting.
Pause and explain the change before proceeding. State the added work, revised price, and scheduling impact, then ask the customer to approve it.
Your Playbook Assignment
Review your three most recent quotes. Check each for scope, price, scheduling, supplies, and extras, then rewrite any quote that leaves the customer guessing.
