That's right. This thread has been going on for awhile. Forgot about you saying that.

If you're upfront about it I don't think there's anything wrong with it if you've got enough business to be selective. Some people don't understand what it takes to make money.

I'm a consulting engineer that puts projects out for public bids. I always feel bad for the guys that spent weeks of time estimating a project and not get it. Especially the guys that win the bid but the owner decides not to proceed.

htxag09 said:

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Water heater was a poor example.

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Well, it is what started this thread.

Didn't realize this thread still has legs! Thanks to all for the perspectives, we've got a plan for how we are attacking this, but no resolution as of yet.

Funny thing about trying to get some other estimates now (other scopes of work) and I even go out of my way to say "look, I don't want to waste anyone's time so if you can just give me a rough idea of what it would be, that's all I really need". Most people haven't been wanting to do that, but also not charging me for the trip either.

Quote:

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hot water heater

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