As any remodeler can attest, customers come with all different personalities; someone who might be a great fit for one business could be a nightmare for another.
Here are four customer profiles that, while not always deal-breakers, could spell trouble. Proceed with caution and consider whether this client type is right for you.
Expect detailed ideas, specific requests, and high standards. That’s not necessarily bad—your company does great work, right? The trouble comes when those specific requests include items outside of your buying process (have to have those pricey vintage fixtures!), or those details change after the project starts to come together. If you don’t work well with change orders or going outside of your established protocol, it may be time to part ways.
They seemed really interested; their project fit the type of work you do; you got along well. But now, it’s radio silence. If several attempts to get in touch (using their preferred contact method) fail, it’s best to move on and focus on more productive leads. If you do hear back later, politely inquire as to why they stopped responding—if they offer only a feeble excuse, think carefully about proceeding. A wishy-washy prospect can turn into a difficult client.
This client usually means well. They want to be involved and may think they can do some of the work themselves—they want to help! Maybe they really are a good DIYer; maybe their previous attempts have left their home looking like The Money Pit. Either way, you’re there for a reason. Be ready to explain why you do things a certain way, why they can’t buy the materials or install the appliances. If that doesn’t interest you, it might be best to move on.
This is a client smart remodelers should avoid: demanding, argumentative, and unwilling to spend. They might undermine your process, cancel frequently, complain about costs, bad-mouth other pros, or insist that they deserve the unattainable—or all of the above. When you encounter a client like this, it’s almost always best to respectfully decline. Like a werewolf bite will transform its victim, their negativity will infect you, too.
