[dai]

When I was starting up I went to a big estate that was still being built. my pitch was I will do your windows for x amount a month, and the first clean is free. This really worked well for me, I got and retained most of them and I now have six days work there every month.
Remember, I was just starting out and didn't have a full round, I was just giving them my time for the first clean, it wasn't costing me any money.
Your case is different. Big houses = big money, they either have a window cleaner or are looking for one.
This type of house doesn't get cleaned by the owner. You don't want to be offering free cleans to someone that may already have a cleaner. They could easily accept your offer, and say not this time thanks to their regular guy when he came round.
New builds with new owners, yes ok if you don't have a full round, otherwise no free cleans unless it's a sales office on a brand new estate. Dai

[lee_dewing]

thanks all,
intresting views.
majority votes seems to be bump up lowest paid work first and maybe offer 25% discount.
don't worry shiner i'm not that sensitive; only with custys saying not today!
one yesterday dropped her and her neighbour (friendly) starting out monthly then bi-monthly, now down to they're just not dirty!

why is that (because i'm cleaning them regulary).

Thanks all to your responses, some intresting points.
I think 2008 is the year i go for it big time.
X-tel hybrid pole on list
laptop and george.
cheers all

[Steve Thomas]

Hi Mate we had a chat about this the other day did'nt we, as you know Im in the same position. Have found in the last few days that by telling  them that the price has to go up due to underpriceing or running costs Ie Fuel costs going up then they are happy with that. one of my customers price has gone up £3.50 and she is still happy for me to do the job. So NO DON'T DO IT.

I was told by my Grandad many years ago
"Just as well play for nothing as work for nothing" There is something in it mate.

Chat to you next week

Steve (Tone Clean)

[lee_dewing]

cheers steve 

[cleantecross]

I agree with steve just up the prices and if the customer moans then explain. my window cleaner ups his prices by £1.50 every year and myself or neighbers don't complain