Creating Estimates & Proposals
Creating Professional Estimates and Proposals
Your estimate is your sales tool. A detailed, professional, well-organized estimate wins jobs. ANVL makes creating consistent, professional estimates quick and easy.
Estimate vs. Proposal
An estimate is your initial quote showing scope and price. A proposal includes the estimate plus terms, timeline, and conditions. ANVL uses "estimate" and "proposal" interchangeably—both create a formal offer the client can accept or decline.
Starting an Estimate
From a job, click "Create Estimate". ANVL populates basic info: job title, client name, and date. Add a custom estimate number if you use one (or let ANVL auto-number). Set the estimate validity period (usually 30 days)—after that, the client must request a new estimate.
Adding Line Items
Build your estimate by adding line items. Each item has: description, quantity, unit, unit price, and total. Example: "Electrical outlet installation - Qty: 5 - Unit: Each - Price: $35 = Total: $175". Be specific—"labor" is vague; "2 hours electrical rough-in work" is clear.
Organizing with Sections
Group related items using sections: Materials, Labor, Permits, Cleanup, etc. Sections make estimates scannable and help clients understand what they're paying for. Subtotals by section show value clearly.
Materials and Labor Markup
ANVL lets you set a materials markup percentage and labor rate. If you mark up materials 25%, ANVL calculates the marked-up price automatically. This ensures consistent pricing across all jobs. Adjust markups by material type if needed (premium fixtures might be marked up less).
Taxes and Fees
Set your tax rate (sales tax, labor tax, or both depending on your location). ANVL calculates and displays taxes on the estimate. If you charge a disposal fee or permit processing fee, add it as a line item so it's transparent.
Discounts and Promotions
Apply a discount percentage or flat amount if you're offering a special price. Document the reason (new customer, referral, seasonal promotion) for your records. Discounts appear on the estimate so the client understands the reduced price.
Payment Terms
Set your payment terms: deposit due at signing, balance due on completion, or milestone payments. ANVL shows terms clearly on the proposal. Example: "50% down payment upon acceptance, 50% balance due on completion." Clear terms prevent payment surprises.
Timeline and Conditions
Include estimated start date, completion date, and any conditions: "Assumes materials in stock, timeline may extend if special orders required," or "Permit approval not included in timeline." Manage expectations upfront to avoid disputes.
Notes and Special Instructions
Add notes about permits, inspections, site conditions, or material lead times. Example: "Electrical permit ($150) not included in estimate - client responsible for permit fees." Transparency builds trust.
Using Templates
ANVL provides trade-specific estimate templates (Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, etc.) with common line items. Use these to start faster. You can customize and save your own templates for your most common job types. Templates are huge time-savers.
Reviewing Your Estimate
Always preview your estimate before sending. Check all numbers, spelling, and formatting. ANVL shows you how it looks to the client—make sure it looks professional and complete. Fix any errors before sending.
Sending the Estimate
Send via email or ANVL link. Email sends a PDF and lets the client reply. ANVL link lets the client view, approve, or decline through the platform. You get notifications when they view or take action. Follow up in 2-3 days if there's no response.
Estimate Management
Track which estimates are pending, approved, or declined. If a client counters with a lower budget, you can create a revised estimate quickly. Keep a history of all estimates for each client—useful for reference and understanding their preferences.
Pro Tips
Detail beats vagueness—thorough estimates win more jobs because clients understand exactly what they're getting. Include photos or diagrams if relevant. Call the client to review the estimate together—personal connection increases approval rates. Don't over-discount to win jobs; you'll regret it later. Set your prices confidently based on experience and market rates.