Charging Consulting Fees

Mr. D

Hello everybody.

I had a guy call me last week about building a log home. After showing him my model and answering questions for three hours last saturday I realized that he's not really interested in me building his home for him. He wants to build and contract it himself. He seems to have the skill, but not all of the knowledge. Which I think is great. He's got a lot to learn , but will have the work of learning the ins and outs on his own.

Well, he called me monday and again today. I talked to him for about 45 minutes today. We talked about hiring kids for min. wage from one of the trade schools and insurance, liability, and tax issues with having employees etc. Then we talked about hiring my company too.

I don't mind answering some questions for the guy too much but, I've spent 4 hours of my time thinking about work that I might not do and am not sure how many more times he's going to call me for my knowledge.

What is a good way of suggesting a consulting fee? And what does one usually charge for consulting?

My time and knowledge is of value to me even while I am recovering from shoulder surgery.

john elliott

I think I would say no more free info, that you would be happy to help him out but that there is a flat fee of say $1000 which will cover your time up to another 6 hours ( he's already had 4). Don't offer to tutor him for so much per hour because he will try to get you to answer questions really quickly

John

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Ed the Roofer said "John too, in his crass and blunt demeanor.............."

skymaster

I have to say no more "free" time also; Explain you are willing to help him BUT Give him a rate , I think Elliot has a right one. Offer to GC if he wants but RATE. You didnt get this knowledge at the bottom of a crackerjack box. Time is money that is why you are in this crazy biz.

Jack M

MKamis

I have been offering to give consultations regarding new construction. I don't have the capacity to build a home for someone, so I'm not interested in the work itself. What I do is charge a flat fee to review their drawings, look for problem areas, make suggestions regarding improvements and upgrades, and make recomendations for materials.

I then go over my ideas with the owner in person, and they can the apply what they like to the job.

I charge aflat fee based on the size of the house.

Marty

pitbull

your just too a nice a person Mr D

copusbuilder

Yeh, and unfortunately nice guys finish last

Shame on him for wasting your time. He should send you a couple of round trip tickets to Mexico

Tell him to stick it where the sun don't shine. Don't let him "use" you!!

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AkA Richard Cranium

Second Look

Next time he calls, tell him

"I would love to talk but I'm really busy today. I'd be more than happy to go over all your questions for a consulting fee of $1000 which covers up to 6 hours of services. This would be money well spent and could save you $10,000 or more by avoiding costly mistakes. Does that sound like something you'd be interested in or not?"

There's a chance he's not really cut out to be a GC and may want you to help him when the going gets tough, so keep it brief & to the point but respectful.

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Second Look home improvement www.SecondLookHome.com
Handyman and Home Repair Specialist in Rhode Island
RI Licensed Lead Safe Remodeler/Renovator, RI Registered & Insured Contractor

copusbuilder

Theres also a chance he is going to die and leave you all his money

But I doubt it....and I doubt anyone would want to get involved with someone that "thinks they can"? He would second guess you all the way to the bank....his bank.

I know you mean things can be worked with some people but this guy sounds like he needs to be adopted

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www.copusconstruction.com
www.etexasrentals.com
www.thelakevoice.com
AkA Richard Cranium

Mr. D

thanks second look, that sounds like a pretty professional way to go at it. that was kinda how i'm viewing this guy. he's got a good start and enthusiasm, but i just don't see him being able to do it smoothly without a pro to guide him through dealing with the non-woodcrafting trades.

tcleve4911

Hi Mr D
Sounds like he could use a good Project Manager like youself. Oh yeah, they get paid good money for their expertise.......SELL YOURSELF !!!!

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Back in Maine
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RobertCDF

Hey Mr D.... Can I have your phone number I was thinking about building a log home... Oh yeah I mean having you build me a log home... Yeah thats it you build me a log home... But first I want you to tell me how its done ok?

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Robert Shaw
Colorado Springs Custom Decks
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