So, you’ve decided it’s time to replace your old windows or doors. Like most homeowners, your plan is to get 3 to 4 quotes from a local window company to explore options and start budgeting for your new windows.
Scheduling a FREE quote may not be so simple. Companies employ various sales strategies, tricks, and scams to pressure you into a quick decision. Paying close attention to these most common tricks below will not only save you hours of time, it may potentially also save you thousands.
Scheduling Your Appointment
This is often the first indicator that you might be signing up for a lengthy sales pitch. Companies insisting all homeowners or decision-makers attend the initial appointment typically have one motive: to ensure a joint decision on a significant purchase. They may cite reasons like "insurance requirements" or "company policy," or claim their estimates are free but necessitate all parties to answer questions upfront. Don't be deceived. There's no valid reason why a reputable company would insist on this.
Even if all homeowners plan to attend, we recommend initially stating only one will be present. If they accommodate this, you're likely on track. If they persist in requiring everyone, consider other options to avoid a prolonged sales session at your kitchen table. Many excellent companies in your area offer flexible meeting times, respecting your decision-making process without pressure.
Beware of the 'Neighborhood Discount' Sales Tactic
Have you recently had a friendly knock on your door from a local kid excitedly telling you about a neighborhood discount? A nearby remodeling company, currently working in the area, is offering special pricing to neighbors who sign up for similar projects while they're still around. They noticed your older windows and wanted to extend this "fantastic" offer. But hurry, because once they finish the current project and move on, the discount will disappear.
BEWARE: This is NEVER a good deal.
Remember the golden rule to avoid falling for contractor tricks: you NEVER need to sign up immediately. They want to exploit your fear of missing out on a "great deal" to rush you into a decision without proper consideration.
Think about it logically. Workers commute to job sites daily, whether it's your house, your neighbor's, or somewhere across town. The location doesn't affect their daily operations. The so-called "neighborhood discount" is just a ploy.
When you get that knock on the door, thank the kid for the information. What they're really revealing is that this company resorts to deceptive marketing tactics, signaling you to steer clear of them.
Beware of the 'Today Only' Window Price: A Common Sales Tactic
Many homeowners encounter the "today only" window price tactic when getting quotes from large companies. It typically starts with a high initial price, like $19,000, labeled as the MSRP valid for a year. After a lengthy sales pitch, if you hesitate, the price drops to $13,000, supposedly valid for 30 days due to a soon-ending promotion. Then, a final push offers a "special" price of $9,000 if you commit immediately.
This drastic price reduction from $19,000 to $9,000 seems like a fantastic deal, but it's a deceptive sales tactic. It raises questions: If the company can afford to sell at $9,000, why quote $19,000? This strategy preys on urgency, exploiting fear of missing out to push homeowners into hasty decisions.
In reality, the window industry doesn't fluctuate significantly day-to-day. Prices may adjust gradually due to material costs, typically increasing by 5-8% over years. A quote of $9,000 with a one-year option at $9,500 could be reasonable, but $19,000 is misleading.
Every remodeling company seeks profitable projects and will likely accept a $9,000 offer today or in the near future if it's profitable. The urgency to buy "today only" stems from sales tactics, not genuine pricing changes.
Why the rush? Salespeople know their margins and competitors' prices. If given time to compare, homeowners often find better deals without pressure tactics. When seeking quality replacement windows, take your time, stay informed, and avoid high-pressure sales pitches promising fleeting discounts.Before making any major decisions, it's helpful to ask the right questions, such as those outlined in our guide on what to consider before buying windows and doors .
Beware of the 'Model Home' Sales Tactic in Window Replacement
The persistence of the "model home" sales tactic in window replacement reveals its continued effectiveness among some homeowners. Here’s how it works and why caution is advised.
This tactic aims to prompt irrational decisions by convincing you to pay more than necessary. It’s not merely about comparing prices with the cheapest option; it involves assessing product quality, service, and warranty strength. The problem arises when companies charge more than competitors for equivalent offerings.
Take the "model home discount," where a company offers a substantial discount to use your home as a showcase. They claim exclusivity in your neighborhood, urging immediate commitment. It seems like a win-win—you get top-notch windows showcased, potentially attracting neighbors as customers.
However, this tactic is rarely advantageous. The price offered today is often available later. If a company pressures you into immediate sign-up and still accepts the deal later, their exclusivity claim was deceptive.
Never forget: a model home discount is rarely a good deal. If a company asks for secrecy about pricing, suspect they’re offering similar deals to others. Transparency and fair pricing should guide your decision, not urgency tactics.
In conclusion, while showcasing your home can be appealing, ensure it aligns with fair pricing and honest dealings. Don’t rush into decisions under pressure. Compare offers, verify claims, and choose a company based on trust and value, not deceptive marketing ploys.
