I am shocked at how often I get quotes by text for small jobs around the house. And how often people show up and do work with no deposit or prepayment even when I offer.
Last time was a drywall job. I took measurements and sent photos via text, he sent a quote. He did the work and didn’t request a deposit or credit card even when I offered. Sent me an invoice via text and was surprised when I paid same day.
I guess it is low risk when a job is under $500.
It is odd, especially in today’s day and age when powerful, easy to use software exists that can streamline this stuff and make a contractor’s life so much easier. It is easier to send an official quote with click-button deposit and payment options, with contract and payment terms attached, that auto syncs with your accounting, than it is to send a text message and figure out the paperwork later.
On the other hand, it is kind of nice that most people are honest enough to make experiences like yours possible. Maybe that guy gets burned on one or two small jobs a year and that’s just the cost of doing business his way.
I don’t get why he would be surprised that you paid that day. As soon as my guy asks for payment I just do it. If I don’t do it right away, I will forget.
Looks great, I do admire your BLePtitude.
(noun, to show grit and determination in finding someone else to do a job you’re perfectly capable of.)