FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
The best way to deal with complicated pricing structure is to base the work on "Time and Material" This is the most accurate method of pricing. It is just to difficult to accurately predict the cost of each detail of work. In addition should the owners, which to change the specs. you'll drive everyone crazy trying to create "Work Change Order Forms." It is far less complicated to encompass the work within the "T&M" structure. In our case the customer is very satisfied because we provide them a "Work Reconciliation Report that documents the labor time for each employee, and weekly material costs. This way the owner/general contractor, can account for money spent. You can see an example of this report by clicking the link below > http://www.stratospaintingcompany.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=63:time-sheet-detail&catid=8:latestnews
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Oh, yes, in-fact I am an instructor for Sherwin-Williams. In addition to a premier business partner. I am planning on rolling out painting workshops in the Boston, Worcester, Hartford, and Springfield markets by 2015. In addition over the winter I'll be looking to publish my first book on how to start a successful painting business. Our goal is to help the small business owner compete in this market. The components of our workshop address the following categories: 1. How to set up a painting business 2. Product knowledge 3. How to estimate jobs 4. Tracking customers with software and building a customer database 5 Marketing in the information age. I believe that painting company's have a vested interested in helping the small business owners survive. Sherwin-Williams if a progressive company that has embraced this vision as well. So I'm excited about what we can do together.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
Back in 1978, my father-in-law was a very large developer. He built many condominium complex developments, that consisted of 200-300 units. He asked me if I would like to be involved in painting them, The work was ample so why not! I found myself enjoying it very much. From there I moved into painting houses. I am by nature very detail orientated, and I have a wonderful ability to symmetrically balance and combine colors. This attention to detail led me into Historic Homes. I love restoring them and returning them to their natural beauty. To me - painting is therapeutic. Very relaxing and enjoyable. Plus, I love the physical rigors of the job.