The Estimate Follow-Up: 3 messages after the number goes quiet
For contractors who send estimates and then hear nothing.
Quiet usually means busy, not no. Send these as texts or emails. Swap in the words in capitals, keep the rest.
Message 1: the next day
Hi NAME, it's YOUR NAME from COMPANY. One thing I didn't mention yesterday: (fill in: the question most homeowners ask after an estimate, e.g. "how long the job actually takes" or "what happens if we find more damage once we open it up"). ONE-SENTENCE ANSWER. Happy to walk you through anything else in the estimate.
Why it works: It isn't "just checking in." It answers the question they haven't asked yet, which shows you know the job and gives them a reason to reply.
Message 2: three or four days later
Hi NAME, no pressure at all. If the timing isn't right yet, just reply "not yet" and I'll check back in a month. If you have questions about the estimate, I'm around this week.
Why it works: It gives them an easy way to say "not yet." That takes the pressure off, and a "not yet" is still a conversation you can come back to.
Message 3: about a week after the estimate
Hi NAME, I'll close this out on my end so I'm not filling up your inbox. If you want to go ahead, here's how it works: reply "yes," I'll send the agreement, and we can get you on the schedule for TIMEFRAME. Either way, thanks for having me out.
Why it works: It closes the loop politely and makes the next step obvious. No discount, no begging.
Tips
- Put the three dates on your calendar the day you send the estimate.
- Stop the moment they reply, whatever they say.
- If someone asks you to stop contacting them, stop and don't follow up again.
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At Nexus Growth Engine we set up follow-up like this so it runs on its own and replies land in one place.
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