In-Home Consultation

How do I prepare myself for the consultation?

1. Set aside some time where hopefully you won’t be disturbed if at all possible. I know it’s difficult in this day of busy, hectic schedules and lives but try your best.
2. Have questions prepared. The list of possible questions is endless and a good representative should cover most things. If we had a dollar for every time someone said, “I know this is probably a stupid question but”, we’d be rich. There are NO stupid questions. Honestly!
3. Take notes. Guaranteed you will forget or get confused between different information from different companies. Again this is something that happens often.

What you should expect

• The sales rep should be on time, friendly and make you feel at ease. Don’t be afraid to ask for identification.
• They should spend as much time as necessary with you to address all your concerns. No window job is too small and should get the same attention a larger project would.
• Most good reps will start off asking you some questions so they can identify your needs and concerns.
• They should be able to provide you with all the necessary tools such as samples, pictures, colour chips, information, references etc.
• As well as describing the product in depth, perhaps the single most important factor, the window installation, should be explained in detail. Not just to educate you but also to show that they know what they are doing. There is no point in having a great product but installing it incorrectly.
• A detailed estimate should be provided that covers all the bases and provides for NO surprises afterwards. Installation, taxes, removal of all job related debris should be included.
• An estimate should be broken down by item. This enables you to consider doing the project in sections, over time.
• Any company should be able to provide you with references along with pictures of similar work. Preferably some addresses of work in your area that you may be able to take a look at.

What you should NOT expect

• If the rep either shows up substantially late or not at all without contacting you beforehand, then consider getting someone else as this reflects poorly for future work.
• Aggressiveness should not be tolerated in anyway, no matter how subtle. It can be as simple as implying you need to make a decision within a week otherwise you miss out on a so called special offer. Ask them to leave if they use pressure tactics!
• You do not want to see your rep rushing through an appointment with you. Some try to squeeze in as many a day as possible, thinking this results in more sales. If they don’t feel your job is large enough to warrant much effort, they may try to rush to get to the next client.
• A price scribbled down on the back of a business card or just given verbally is not acceptable. For your own protection you need more detail.
• A deposit is required for any project but is usually quite small, 10 – 25%. Be wary of companies asking for larger deposits up front.
• Do not be rushed into a decision for any reason. It’s not unusual for people to contact us years later with the go ahead on a project. Established companies with a stable work force don’t feel the need to pressure people into quick decisions. We will still be here when you are ready, unlike some others.