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Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 08:35 AM
I am hoping to find some advice on here -- I have a janitorial business. Im pretty confident with the pricing of the homes and apartments, however, when I went to an apartment complex, they asked me to quote them also on their office area - which Im definitely not quite sure as to how to do that. I want to be fair, but, because I am going to be cleaning out the apartments - I want to sort of cut them a deal, but, NOT really under charging on the project. This is for a huge company out here - so, I have potential to get a lot of work with other complexes as well.

The office area itself is approx. 2600 sq. ft. Inside the office is a library area, two small kitchens. It has carpet and tile, so, it would need to be vacuumed and mopped as well. It also has inside it a small computer lab, with about 5 computers that will need to be dusted and vaccumed. They have 15 windows, 13 regular size, with top and bottom and two large windows, top and bottom, with the big blinds on it that will need to be done.

Outside is two bathrooms. Also, separately, is a small laundry room with about 4 of each machines which will need to be wiped down and mopped. Next to that in a separate room is a small fitness room with about 15-20 pieces of equipment.

If someone could PLEASE help with some advice, Id be VERY appreciative!

Thanks

Jon

***** For the record, Im in Jacksonville, Florida.*****

I also forgot to mention that she wants to have it cleaned once quarterly.

Clough
Mar 24, 2009, 02:27 PM
Hi, Jon09822!

I just merged your three, separate posts into one post in order to avoid confusion here. I know just the Expert on this site who will be able to assist you the best here, and that is Stringer.

I'll let him know about your question.

Thanks!

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 02:47 PM
Hi, Jon09822!

I just merged your three, separate posts into one post in order to avoid confusion here. I know just the Expert on this site who will be able to assist you the best here, and that is Stringer.

I'll let him know about your question.

Thanks!


Thank you for fixing that! Now, I don't look like an idiot, LOL. Im glad you commented because I have been reading your info on how to get some good advertising and would like to see if you could help me as well.

I appreciate your help!

Jon

Clough
Mar 24, 2009, 02:51 PM
I'll be glad to help you with the advertising part and I'm sure that Stringer will be along sometime when he's available.

I need to go now, though... I'm usually on here really late at night and was just checking in.

Thanks!

Stringer
Mar 24, 2009, 03:40 PM
Thanks for letting me know Clough.

Hi Jon,

Jon, listen to what Clough tells you about advertising, take his advice and work with him, you will benefit.

I have read your thread and there is a lot we can discuss that hopefully will help you. At the moment though, I am quite busy and cannot stay long, only a minute or so.

I will be back with a list of further questions that will help me to dissect your situation and hopefully help you, after you deal with these... OK?

A few quick ones;

How long in the cleaning business?

What area of the country? Suburbs or city areas.

Do you have written specifications from your client?

How many days per week is this cleaning?

Who provides supplies (not cleaning supplies-you do) but trash bags,paper towels, TP, hand soaps, stc.

Are you responsible for stripping and refinishing the hard floors (VCT? Or what types of hard floors?)

Will you be cleaning the carpets?

Are you saying that you will be cleaning the windows? Inside and out? How high off the ground?

Are you saying that there are a total of eight machines in the laundry room? (Confused on this one?)

Fitness room: Are you responsible for cleaning and wiping down the equipment? Each day?

Like NO OTHER business... the statement: "time is money" applies. Normally, 65 to 75%of your monthly charge to a client is labor or labor related.

Do you have employees (or sub contractors) working for you?

Do you have an operations program put together?

Do you have a customer service program put together?

Are you incorporated? Do you have business insurance?

This is a small start... please respond to each question clearly as best you can. And we can go from there.

Last question and a little off the 'how to part', how big do you want to get? Have you put together a business plan?

Stringer

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 05:42 PM
Hi Stringer -

Thanks for your time - I will try to answer each question the best I can...


How long in the cleaning business?

I have had my business since 2003 - however, I am just now really getting into it - I have had some jobs - doing residential - but, nothing commercial -- I have had a contact to get into doing this - so, this is where I am now..


What area of the country? Suburbs or city areas.

I am in Jacksonville, Florida - close to the city.


Do you have written specifications from your client?

I don't have anything 'written' from the client. I had originally gone to meet with the Property Manager to discuss cleaning out the apartments - this is just something that sprang up when I met with her - we basically walked around and she showed me the areas that needed to be done.

How many days per week is this cleaning?

She only wants it done once every quarter - this is what is throwing me off ---- I think it would have been easier for me if it would have been once a week, or, even once a month, however, this one really threw me for a loop, lol. I am confused because in one aspect, it will be more maintenance - which in one of my thoughts, would be a bit more - however, when I consider the other side of the spectrum, Im only going to be in there for approximately two and a half or so hours, do I charge more or less for that --so, again, this is my struggle on giving a quote. Now, as I had mentioned before, I had originally went to this complex to meet her to discuss cleaning the move outs for the apartment complex. This is where Im in a dilema on what to charge. This is a huge lead I got from someone I met higher up in this company who helped me get my foot in the door. I don't want to under charge, but, not over charge, because there is a lot of business to get from this company - with other apartment complexes and offices...

Who provides supplies (not cleaning supplies-you do) but trash bags,paper towels, TP, hand soaps, stc.

Honestly, that was not discussed - I would probably not provide anything but the equipment and cleaning chemicals.

Are you responsible for stripping and refinishing the hard floors (VCT? Or what types of hard floors?)

The floors are linoleum type floors and carpet. She did mention after we cleaned she would have the floor waxed -

Will you be cleaning the carpets?

I would, but, at this point the only thing discussed was mopping and vacuuming.</b>

Are you saying that you will be cleaning the windows? Inside and out? How high off the ground?

I will be cleaning the windows. There are 15 windows. All but two of them are regular sized windows - top and bottom. There are two larger windows, top and bottom. The inside would be cleaned. They all have those big blinds on them as well which will need to be dusted.

Are you saying that there are a total of eight machines in the laundry room? (Confused on this one?)

There are a total of eight washers, dryers in the room that would need to be dusted and the floor mopped. There are a total of four doors in each area that have glass that would need to be cleaned. They have two bathrooms in the same area out there that need to be cleaned.

Fitness room: Are you responsible for cleaning and wiping down the equipment? Each day?

The equipment would need to be dusted down each quarter and floor vaccumed.

Now the MAIN office area is about 2600 sq. foot. It contains one office area, two small kitchens, a library and a clubhouse area. It also has a small room with computers in it that will need to be cleaned.


Like NO OTHER business... the statement: "time is money" applies. Normally, 65 to 75%of your monthly charge to a client is labor or labor related.

Do you have employees (or sub contractors) working for you?

Right now, I am going to do the jobs myself - I do someone who does just help out - Now, one of the debates Im having with myself is when I do have to hire people, should I just subcontract them out or just hire them? I am, at this point, leaning more towards the subcontracting -- your thoughts?

Do you have an operations program put together?

I do not, at this point - I will probably pursue that as I grow. Honestly, I would have no clue as to how to start that - but, I have come this far, I could figure that out when the time comes.

Do you have a customer service program put together?

Not at this time, I AM the customer service, LOL

Are you incorporated? Do you have business insurance?

I am incorporated and I do have a business license. I am also insured - it was a requirement to even get contracted with this company.


Last question and a little off the 'how to part', how big do you want to get? Have you put together a business plan -

I have not put together a business plan, however, I am really starting to progress to another level with the business. I haven't done much with it before due to the last job I had - I worked at a job which dealt with a lot of properties so I didn't want it to come in conflict with the business - I have since left and now, Im trying to pursue this avenue.


I hope this helps! Also, again, reading the threads on the advertising, Im definitely wanting to get some input from Clough - I have clicked on the links posted and that's how I would want my business to be! Im sure glad I stumbled onto this site!


Thanks!

Jon

Stringer
Mar 24, 2009, 09:01 PM
Thank you for your responses Jon, your answers are a good start. At this point as far as the actual planning and running a service contractor cleaning business I would suggest that you research 'cleaning', 'cleaning service/s', 'janitorial', 'office cleaning', 'building cleaning', and like terms in the search box on the top of your thread here. You will find a ton of information to read that will bring you up to speed in some areas of your questions.

I will get back to you on your responses tomorrow Jon as I am beat tonight. You will find from reading these posts that I suggested that some of my answers that I give you have already been discussed but that is not a problem. Each situation is somewhat different and that is good as it will personalize it to your particular needs.

By the way Jon, since you are new, might I suggest that if any of this helps you in any way it would be nice to have you 'rate' our answers. Pretty much the credit we receive if we are able to help someone as we do this to primarily help others.

Thanks,

Stringer

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 09:09 PM
Thank you for your responses Jon, your answers are good start. At this point as far as the actual planning and running a service contractor cleaning business I would suggest that you research 'cleaning', cleaning service/s', 'janitorial', 'office cleaning', 'building cleaning', and like terms in the search box on the top of your thread here. You will find a ton of information to read that will bring you up to speed in some areas of your questions.

I will get back to you on your responses tomorrow Jon. You will find from reading these posts that I suggested that some of my answers that I give you have already been discussed but that is not a problem. Each situation is somewhat different and that is good as it will personalize it to your particular needs.

By the way Jon, since you are new, might I suggest that if any of this helps you in any way it would be nice to have you 'rate' our answers. Pretty much the credit we receive if we are able to help someone as we do this to primarily help others.

Thanks,

Stringer


Ok, thank you. I am supposed to call her back tomorrow - actually, today, but, she was not in, so, I will just try to hold off until I am more comfortable with my decision.

I will do the search and read up on it when I have some time. I have been kind of browsing all over and reading some posts - so, hopefully, I will learn a lot more. I know it's a learning process - that's actually how I started. I had no clue about starting a business, but, did a lot of research on how to do it and that's how I got to where I am - so, Im sure all information here will be beneficial to me as well.

I would be more than happy to help with the rating - not quite sure how to do that yet, but, I will figure it out. LOL.


By the way, I moved here from Chicago - I still miss it there. I lived around the Waukegan and Vernon Hills area when I lived there. I miss the snow - as crazy as it sounds. When you live here and there is no snow for Christmas, its just not the same.

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 09:29 PM
Stringer -

I had asked your opinion on the 'subcontracting' aspect, however, I just stumbled on your post about your experience.. It seems more like it could turn more into a headache if anything, so, now, Im definitely going to re-think that whole idea.

Stringer
Mar 24, 2009, 09:54 PM
Click on 'Rate this answer' at the bottom of the post Jon to rate.

I am very familiar with those areas, nice up there. I am in the area around Naperville. I have been to most of the areas in FL worked in Miami for about two years. My business partner and I have a 3,000 sq ft condo in Naples.

Ok, since you need this right away but I don't like to rush anything that is about business I will give you a chance to short cut this a little. But Jon, I normally would want you to do this with much thought and consideration to do it the right way and learn for future dealings.

Since you are doing this yourself presently you could use an hourly rate. Sit down and figure about how much time it will take you to do EACH area individually, how many hours. Arrive at a total amount of hours for each day and how much you can accomplish that day. Normally for residential cleaning which includes a lot of detail you can clean about 2,000 sq ft or so per hour. At this time, possibly use this figure.

You will have to approximate the square footage for each area, or better yet measure it or get it from her, arrive at the total sq ft and then charge an hourly rate. This rate will have to be broken down to include all your costs; insurance. Taxes, supplies, (ALL of your overhead) etc. Add your profit (remember, per hour) no additional labor since you are it at this time.

I hate to do this with out doing the due diligence necessary to do it right, but possibly a rate of $17 to $20/21 per hour. As you get more business and can amortize your costs that rate can come down.Possibly consider the lower/middle range...

Jon, at this point I have to tell you that any price that you choose has to be your decision, not mine, this is only a suggestion, you are always responsible for your our prices.

I would suggest that after you get your hourly price that you meet with her and talk. Ask her if she has a budget because you would like to work within that budget, she could possibly give it to you if you sort of act like this is normal, actually, it is. If she won't give it to you then tell her your price.

I would also suggest that you devise a method of 'signing off' each area after it is cleaned with a management person so you have no problem getting paid and on time in this economy.

Good luck, you determine your price per hour. She may ask you for your 'hours' based upon your price Jon, I would give them to her based upon the information that you have presently, as some things may come up later that could cause you to take more time.

Also find out when and how you will get paid, you should officially invoice for your records, hers and the IRS.

I would like to see you get more into daily cleaning, that is where there is more billing, profits and consistency. When you get to the point where you are going to hire employees (Yes, I suggest that you use employees not sub contractors...that could be a problem in the long run) you will need to have enough 'work hours' to keep them, they will leave if their income is not sufficient or not enough hours on a regular basis.

Sorry for any grammar or typing errors, like I said before... it's dragging...

This may get you past tomorrow, good luck,

Stringer

Stringer
Mar 24, 2009, 09:55 PM
Stringer -

I had asked your opinion on the 'subcontracting' aspect, however, I just stumbled on your post about your experience.. It seems more like it could turn more into a headache if anything, so, now, Im definitely going to re-think that whole idea.

See my last post Jon.

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 10:12 PM
Ok, I didn't get a chance to read your response yet, but did see where you had mentioned about the rate button. This is not making sense to me, since, I don't see that on the bottom of any of the responses - however, when I post something I see it on the bottom of mine. The only button I see down at the bottom of any other response is 'quote this user' and that's it. There is, again, no 'rate' button to click on - except mine - which, doesn't make much sense to me - Why would I rate myself? Lol

Stringer
Mar 24, 2009, 10:20 PM
Ok, I didnt get a chance to read your response yet, but did see where you had mentioned about the rate button. This is not making sense to me, since, I dont see that on the bottom of any of the responses - however, when I post something I see it on the bottom of mine. The only button I see down at the bottom of any other response is 'quote this user' and thats it. There is, again, no 'rate' button to click on - except mine - which, doesnt make much sense to me - Why would I rate myself? lol


Sorry Jon, I am tired like I said, new members have to have a certain amount of posts to be able to do this... sorry, maybe later after you make more posts... K.

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 10:21 PM
Thank you for the information Stringer - I hope that I didn't come across as though I needed you to answer tonight - I probably won't call her back until tomorrow afternoon anyway - I have a lot of running around to do tomorrow morning, but, I appreciate you taking the time to give me the information.

I guess what Im honestly trying to figure out here is that if its only once, quarterly, do you charge more for that or does it matter? I have read where you do because its not cleaned as often so it'll take a bit longer to do, but, then again, on the other hand, its only ONCE a quarter, so, one time charge for that period, as opposed to doing it say, weekly, or monthly, so, would a higher charge be necessary?

I will try to see if I can ask about the budget - perhaps, she will share that with me.


Thanks again - Ill let you know the outcome -

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 10:23 PM
Sorry Jon, I am tired like I said, new members have to have a certain amount of posts to be able to do this...sorry, maybe later after you make more posts....K.


Well, I seem to be on a pretty good roll with posting - so hopefully, it'll be soon, lol.

Clough
Mar 24, 2009, 10:41 PM
Hi, Jon09822!

I'm on right now if you might like to discuss some things concerning advertising and marketing. It would probably be best to start a separate thread about that though since advertising and marketing isn't the subject of your original question.

We can discuss on this thread though, how to title and word the question on the new thread.

Thanks!

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 10:57 PM
Hi CLOUGH - sorry I didn't back quicker - I was actually getting ready to sign off, but, if you leave how to start on a new thread, I can do that for tomorrow - its late and I need to be up early or I would stay on for a bit longer -
:)

Clough
Mar 24, 2009, 11:03 PM
Okay, I do understand.

I'll think of some ways to do that and post it on this thread.

Thanks!

Stringer
Mar 24, 2009, 11:30 PM
Thank you for the information Stringer - I hope that I didnt come across as though I needed you to answer tonight - I probably wont call her back until tomorrow afternoon anyways - I have alot of running around to do tomorrow morning, but, I appreciate you taking the time to give me the information.

I guess what Im honestly trying to figure out here is that if its only once, quarterly, do you charge more for that or does it matter? I have read where you do because its not cleaned as often so itll take a bit longer to do, but, then again, on the other hand, its only ONCE a quarter, so, one time charge for that period, as opposed to doing it say, weekly, or monthly, so, would a higher charge be necessary?

I will try to see if I can ask about the budget - perhaps, she will share that with me.


Thanks again - Ill let you know the outcome -

I have never had someone ask for 'quarterly' cleaning Jon, never in over 30 years, strange.

You are correct, anything except nightly cleaning is additional. You can compensate by increasing your hours once you set your hourly rate, add more time to each phase. The longer the time span between the cleanings the more time as trash, dust, dirt, spots, etc accumulate more during this span.

I really want you to search out more 'regular cleaning' such as daily or even weekly. We do no clean anything less than 5 days per week, some are 6 and 7 days per week.

This work is less trouble, more profitable and actually easier... 'sweat to reward'... this work is out there and is the norm... you have to set your mind to it.

Stringer

Stringer
Mar 24, 2009, 11:33 PM
Hi, Jon09822!

I'm on right now if you might like to discuss some things concerning advertising and marketing. It would probably be best to start a separate thread about that though since advertising and marketing isn't the subject of your original question.

We can discuss on this thread though, how to title and word the question on the new thread.

Thanks!

Morning my friend, how are you this rainy night?

Clough, possibly we could remain on this thread.. otherwise Jon will be bouncing back and forth between the two threads and that may be a little confusing, what do you think?:)

Night for now it's 1:30 am and I too have to get up at 6 am tomorrow.

Stringer

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 11:50 PM
Morning my friend, how are you this rainy night?

Clough, possibly we could remain on this thread..otherwise Jon will be bouncing back and forth between the two threads and that may be a little confusing, what do you think?:)

Night for now it's 1:30 am and I too have to get up at 6 am tomorrow.

Stringer

Yea, don't need to be any more confused that I already am, LOL.

Jon09822
Mar 24, 2009, 11:53 PM
I have never had someone ask for 'quarterly' cleaning Jon, never in over 30 years, strange.

You are correct, anything except nightly cleaning is additional. You can compensate by increasing your hours once you set your hourly rate, add more time to each phase. The longer the time span between the cleanings the more time as trash, dust, dirt, spots, etc accumulate more during this span.

I really want you to search out more 'regular cleaning' such as daily or even weekly. We do no clean anything less than 5 days per week, some are 6 and 7 days per week.

This work is less trouble, more profitable and actually easier...'sweat to reward'... this work is out there and is the norm...you have to set your mind to it.

Stringer

Yea, it was pretty strange to me too - again, it was just something that happened that was unexpected - didn't really go seeking out for the quarterly thing, lol. It would have been easier if it was weekly or monthly even --- hopefully, something could be worked out though -- Im probably stressing over this for nothing -- Im sure we can come to some agreement.

Clough
Mar 25, 2009, 01:08 AM
Originally Posted by Stringer https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/amhd_imgs/buttons/viewpost.gif (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/commercial-office-bid-333231-post1625634.html#post1625634)
Morning my friend, how are you this rainy night?

Clough, possibly we could remain on this thread..otherwise Jon will be bouncing back and forth between the two threads and that may be a little confusing, what do you think?:)

Night for now it's 1:30 am and I too have to get up at 6 am tomorrow.

Stringer


Yea, don't need to be any more confused that I already am, LOL.

It could be in Home-Based Business just like this thread is. That way, it wouldn't be too confusing and hard to find. The thing is, that people do look at the title of the threads first to see if it's something in which they might be interested. If there's information on a thread that could be of benefit to them that doesn't happen to be about the original subject of the thread, then they might not see the information that could be helpful to them.

Stringer, do you remember that gal we were trying to help a number of months ago who kept starting new threads and jumping around in different forum topic areas of the site about her same issues? LOL!

Thanks!

Stringer
Mar 25, 2009, 06:32 AM
It could be in Home-Based Business just like this thread is. That way, it wouldn't be too confusing and hard to find. The thing is, that people do look at the title of the threads first to see if it's something in which they might be interested. If there's information on a thread that could be of benefit to them that doesn't happen to be about the original subject of the thread, then they might not see the information that could be helpful to them.

Stringer, do you remember that gal we were trying to help a number of months ago who kept starting new threads and jumping around in different forum topic areas of the site about her same issues? LOL!

Thanks!

You know, you are absolutely right, good point Cloug; Home Based Business about Business Advertising.

Thanks,

Stringer

Jon09822
Mar 25, 2009, 10:07 AM
Well, here is the update. I called her today and explained the whole cleaning deal with her - explained about it only being done quarterly and that it would be more to maintain, as opposed to doing it once a week or even once a month. She sounded like she understood where I was coming from - and I gave her a quote for $275.00 - she said that sounded good ----- now, do you think that is a fair price?

I again asked her if she wanted the windows done, which from what I was under the impression she only wanted the inside done, however, in speaking with her today - she mentioned she wanted the outside done as well ---

Honestly, Im definitely not comfortable with how this all played out - I wish it would of just stuck to the whole apartment cleanings - but, this is where I am right now. Do you think that is a fair price?

Stringer
Mar 25, 2009, 10:27 AM
How many hours of your labor did you figure in for this quarterly cleaning Jon?

How high off the ground are these windows and is this included in your $275.00 price.

This is what I was trying to tell you... the sweat to reward in this situation has a very low rating in my book. I have found over the years that these kind of jobs are also the ones that have more than their share of problems and require more than usual amounts of your time than what you are getting in return (period), 'squeaking wheel'. Go for 3-4-5 days per week or even weekly, much better return in all phases.

As far as "is this a good price", I don't have the time presently to go back and research the thread now, sorry. Please give me the total square footage again AND how many hours you figured including these windows inside and out and I will get back.

Sorry Jon I am expecting a conference call in a minute or so...

Stringer

Jon09822
Mar 25, 2009, 10:58 AM
How many hours of your labor did you figure in for this quarterly cleaning Jon?

How high off the ground are these windows and is this included in your $275.00 price.

This is what I was trying to tell you...the sweat to reward in this situation has a very low rating in my book. I have found over the years that these kind of jobs are also the ones that have more than their share of problems and require more than usual amounts of your time than what you are getting in return (period), 'squeaking wheel'. Go for 3-4-5 days per week or even weekly, much better return in all phases.

As far as "is this a good price", I don't have the time presently to go back and research the thread now, sorry. Please give me the total square footage again AND how many hours you figured including these windows inside and out and I will get back.

Sorry Jon I am expecting a conference call in a minute or so....

Stringer


There are a total of 15 windows. Two are larger windows which will need a ladder and the other ones are the regular windows top and bottom slide windows. The sq. ft is approx 2700 sq ft. This is the total price for windows, dusting, vacuuming and mopping everything, the gym, office, all gym equipment, two bathrooms, all blinds dusted, computer lab, etc...

I did 20.00 per hour for labor - I do feel though that this is a low price - however, I will be doing the work on this one - PLUS again, keep in mind, that Im in this to get more business to do the apartments as well with this complex.

Stringer
Mar 25, 2009, 11:19 AM
There are a total of 15 windows. Two are larger windows which will need a ladder and the other ones are the regular windows top and bottom slide windows. The sq. ft is approx 2700 sq ft. This is the total price for windows, dusting, vacuuming and mopping everything, the gym, office, all gym equipment, two bathrooms, all blinds dusted, computer lab, etc.......

I did 20.00 per hour for labor - I do feel though that this is a low price - however, I will be doing the work on this one - PLUS again, keep in mind, that Im in this to get more business to do the apartments as well with this complex.

I understand Jon, but please remember that ALL the individual jobs must stand on their own, always. In the future, for example you could possibly lose a few good profit jobs and be left with the ones that are less desirable, not a good thing. Remember when you are pricing that yes, it is understandable to price with the intention for potential, but 'profit is never an ugly word.' The market will bear what is required.

Well, did you ask her when she will respond with a date to start? Never ask a question where the answer can be 'yes or no.' Did she give you her budget?

So, if I am correct you used about 11 or 12 hours as your basis at $20.00 / hour, which includes everything?

How are you going to control customer satisfaction? What about security, how will you enter the building if it is locked or alarmed? And what is expected of you to secure the building?

Also, if you and Clough have started the other thread, please 'link' me to it, thanks.

Stringer

Jon09822
Mar 25, 2009, 12:50 PM
I understand Jon, but please remember that ALL the individual jobs must stand on their own, always. In the future, for example you could possibly lose a few good profit jobs and be left with the ones that are less desirable, not a good thing. Remember when you are pricing that yes, it is understandable to price with the intention for potential, but 'profit is never an ugly word.' The market will bear what is required.

I am in total agreement with you that all jobs stand on their own. That was my whole original point. I understand that this is a separate entity and needs to be handled as such, however, I wanted to give 'fair' estimate due to this not being the only entity being cleaned on the property. I wanted to give them a break so to speak. Again, the whole 'quarterly' thing is what threw me for a loop to begin with.


Well, did you ask her when she will respond with a date to start? Never ask a question where the answer can be 'yes or no.' Did she give you her budget?

That is what I forgot to mention earlier. In speaking with her this morning, I did bring up the whole budget topic and she stated that she really didnt have a budget to go on - Also, I only spoke to her this morning - I have to do the actual proposal and take it to her still.


So, if I am correct you used about 11 or 12 hours as your basis at $20.00 / hour, which includes everything?

I just took what I thought the amount of hours that it would take to do the job each time. I figure it will take about 2 to 2.5 hours to complete everything. Then I did the 2600 sq ft @ .09 per sq ft.

How are you going to control customer satisfaction? What about security, how will you enter the building if it is locked or alarmed? And what is expected of you to secure the building?

Please, again, understand - I am still learning about commercial property. I am able to do houses and apartments all day long, however, as was stated earlier, this was something that was tossed at me when inquiring about doing the apartments - this was definitely unexpected - which is why Im here.


Also, if you and Clough have started the other thread, please 'link' me to it, thanks.

The new thread hasnt been started as of yet. I have some things to do and perhaps later will start that one. I need to go back and see how to do it - I guess just start a new topic in this section. Thanks for your help



Stringer


Thanks for your help. I was excited at first when she asked me to do this, however, it has stressed me more than excited me at this point. lol.

Stringer
Mar 25, 2009, 01:17 PM
Yep, I am sorry to have hit you with so much at one time Jon. I love what I do and get excited and I take a project and run with it. And at the same time try to cover items that may keep people from making costly mistakes.

Sometimes I am probably guilty of thinking in a larger capacity than is required.

If you have any particular questions please just ask them and I will respond as best as I can.

Thanks,

Stringer

Jon09822
Mar 26, 2009, 09:10 AM
Yep, I am sorry to have hit you with so much at one time Jon. I love what I do and get excited and I take a project and run with it. And at the same time try to cover items that may keep people from making costly mistakes.

Sometimes I am probably guilty of thinking in a larger capacity than is required.

If you have any particular questions please just ask them and I will respond as best as I can.

Thanks,

Stringer

Oh I appreciate all of your advice and assistance. Im open to learning all I can - what better way to get it from those who are already doing it, so, thank you!

Stringer
Mar 26, 2009, 09:17 AM
Good, then just ask away as you need to.

Stringer

Clough
Mar 28, 2009, 01:43 AM
Hey, Stringer!

New thread started by Jon09822 concerning advertising can be found via clicking on the following link.

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/home-based-business/good-ways-advertise-334164.html

I've been somewhat "out of touch" on this site because I've been house and dog-sitting since last Friday night. Will be back in my own home late tomorrow night.

Thanks!

Stringer
Mar 28, 2009, 09:00 AM
Hey, Stringer!

New thread started by Jon09822 concerning advertising can be found via clicking on the following link.

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/home-based-business/good-ways-advertise-334164.html

I've been somewhat "out of touch" on this site because I've been house and dog-sitting since last Friday night. Will be back in my own home late tomorrow night.

Thanks!

Thanks Clough.