Document guides / Estimate
The estimate: price it, get it signed, then start.
An estimate tells the client what you expect the job to cost and what is included. Once they approve it, it becomes your written agreement and later the base for the invoice.
No account needed for the free version.
When you would use a estimate.
A client asks "what will it cost?"
Send a written number the same day. The first clear price often wins the job.
The scope is mostly known
You can measure and price it, but exact quantities may move a little.
You need a deposit to start
State the deposit on the estimate so it is agreed before the client signs.
You want approval in writing
A signed estimate settles the "I thought it included that" argument before it starts.
Top to bottom, what the page shows.
This is the order a client reads it in, and the same sections AeroInvoice puts on a estimate.
- Who and where
Your business, the client and the job site.
- Valid until
The date the price expires. Material costs move, so an expiry protects you.
- Line items
Labor, materials and fees, each priced. Mark which lines are taxable.
- Totals
Subtotal, discount, tax and the estimated total, which is the headline figure.
- Deposit
The amount due to start, as a percentage or a flat amount.
- Payment schedule
When the rest is billed, tied to milestones if the job is staged.
- Notes and terms
What is not included, how changes are handled, and your standard terms.
- Signature
A line for the client to approve. This is what makes it an agreement.
- Attachments
Plans, product sheets or site photos.
- Number prefix
- EST
- Signed by
- The client signs "Approved by client".
Tips
- List exclusions. "Does not include permit fees" saves an argument later.
- Set a valid-until date you can live with.
- Send it as a link so the client can sign from their phone.
Good to know.
Is an estimate legally binding?
What happens after the client approves?
Make your estimate in minutes.
Try the free version with no account, or start free to send it to a client as a link.