D
DoneDeal

Guides

Practical, no-fluff guides on proposals, estimates, and pricing.

How to write a contractor proposal that gets signed

A clear, practical guide to writing a professional contractor proposal — the sections to include, how to present pricing, and how to get a faster signature.

What a remodeling estimate should include (a line-item checklist)

A checklist of what belongs in a remodeling estimate — trade by trade — so nothing gets missed and the price holds up.

How to price a job when you’re a new contractor

A simple framework for pricing jobs as a new contractor — covering costs, adding markup, and avoiding the underbidding trap.

How to follow up after sending a proposal (without being annoying)

A simple, respectful follow-up cadence that wins more jobs — what to say, when to say it, and when to move on.

Deposits and payment schedules: how contractors get paid on time

How to structure deposits and milestone payments so you protect cash flow and avoid getting stuck financing a customer’s project.

Fixed price vs. time and materials: which should you quote?

When to bid a fixed price and when to charge time and materials — and how to protect your margin either way.

How painters quote a job on-site: walkthrough to signed proposal before you leave the driveway

A step-by-step guide for painting contractors: turn walkthrough photos and a few notes into a professional, itemized painting proposal — sent and e-signed before you pull away from the house.

How flooring contractors quote a job on-site: from measure to signed proposal in minutes

A step-by-step guide for flooring contractors: turn your measurements, photos, and notes into a professional, itemized flooring proposal — sent and e-signed before you leave the house.

How concrete contractors quote a job on-site: driveway walkthrough to signed proposal

A step-by-step guide for concrete and masonry contractors: turn your site walkthrough, measurements, and photos into a professional, itemized concrete proposal — sent and e-signed on-site.

How deck builders quote a job on-site: backyard walkthrough to signed proposal

A step-by-step guide for deck and patio builders: turn your backyard walkthrough, photos, and notes into a professional, itemized deck proposal — sent and e-signed before you leave.

How fence contractors quote a job on-site: property walkthrough to signed proposal

A step-by-step guide for fencing contractors: turn your property walkthrough, linear-foot measurements, and photos into a professional, itemized fence proposal — sent and e-signed on-site.