Keep open quotes clear
Generator estimate follow-up: what to say next
Use short, useful follow-up notes for open generator quotes. Find the question holding up a decision and give each quote an owner and next step.
For an open generator estimate, first check that the homeowner has the right quote. Then ask what is still unclear and agree on one next step.
Use the job notes to choose the message. A scope question, a price concern and a timing issue need different answers.
On this page
1. Check the quote first
Make sure the homeowner has the right version. Check the work, the price and what is still unknown.
Generac's quote guide lists the unit, transfer switch, labor, fuel work and site work. Some jobs also need permit and inspection costs. Use the scope for this home.
- What does this price include?
- What could change after more site checks?
- What must happen before a date is set?
- Who will answer the next question?
Confirm delivery before you ask for a decision
If the quote is ready during the visit, go through it with the homeowner. Send the file and check that they can open it. If more checks are needed, name who will finish them and when the quote will be ready.
No reply is not proof that the price is too high. The file may not have arrived, or the person may need more time. Check the known facts before you offer a discount.
2. Ask one clear question
Use these notes as drafts. Change them to fit the real job. Use the channel the customer agreed to. Stop if they ask you to stop.
If the price is the main question
Find out which part needs work before you offer a discount. Two quotes may cover different work. Compare the scope with the homeowner.
If they are waiting on timing
Check stock, crew time and any open site tasks first. Give a real update. Do not use a false deadline to get a yes.
3. Give each quote an owner
Keep one short note for each open quote. The person who owns it should know the next step.
- Quote date and version.
- The homeowner's open question.
- The person who will answer it.
- The next date agreed with the homeowner.
- Status: open, accepted or lost.
4. Keep a yes apart from a finished job
A yes is not an installed generator. A deposit is not the full payment. Track the accepted quote, finished work and money received as separate steps.
In Permapower's public interview, Anthony describes follow-up and on-site estimates. It is one client's past experience, not a test of these sample notes.
Watch and learn
Go through the quote and name the next step
Watch a short example of how to explain the quote, flag what is still unknown and agree when to talk again.
Selected section: 9:36–10:15.
This is a clip from SwiftSocial's sales system guide. Sample numbers show the math. They do not predict your results.
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Sources and further reading
Sources checked .
