I dont need to offer test panels. As soon as i show the customer my new Karcher, They throw their money at me.
A test area not only shows the customer you can do what you say you can. It shows them a tangible result and tells you exactly what you need. This results in you turning up with the right gear and ultimately saves time in the long run! Once your confident go a stage further and charge for the test patch offering to knock the cost off the final price if they go ahead. Finally I always try to get away with the test area in the middle of the dirtiest area then 99% take you up on the job
Mate it is nothing to do with wealth it is about the courage of your own convictions, If everything was local I wouldn't too be bothered but it never is for us and by charging you do sort the messers out from the serious prospects