Posted by Rachel/ORWA on 12/22/07 12:18am
Msg #227339

Feels good to rant...

So, I get a call for an inspection assignment from a company I've done several for, all at $40 (which is pushing my bottom line, as it is). I open the confirmation and see the fee is listed at $35. I call back and am told they've lowered the fees they offer for this type of inspection. I politely explain that I will be unable to accept the assignment (for the next day).

Next day (today), I receive another call from same company, different person. I mention that my fee is $40. Conversation ensues, scheduler attempting to persuade me to accept $35 (they have a budget, can only pay so much, etc., etc.). I am lured into (unwisely) explaining myself, saying I find these take me a solid hour to do, usually, and that in fact I'd really like $45 or $50 for them.

Her response: "But Rachel, if it takes you an hour, that $35 dollars an HOUR!" This in a tone of explaining the very obvious to the very obtuse. At this point I retreated back into my tried-and-true polite response of "I understand you've got a business model to follow, as have I, and mine just can't work with $35." Well, they'll have to take me off their list. I say I understand and we hang up.

Couple hours later, I get another call, will I do it for $42? Yes, I'd be happy to.

Overall, I like this company, and I'm glad for the work, but I'm still annoyed by that patronizing thirty-five-dollars-an-HOUR comment, even though I asked for it by engaging in the conversation to begin with. Rrgh.

Reply by EastTxNotary on 12/22/07 7:22am
Msg #227363

I SO hate it when I let myself get caught up in trying to explain my fee. It is simply my fee and they should take it or leave it. I had one scheduler say "I think that's really crappy. That doesn't leave us making anything!" I bit my tongue and politely told her that perhaps they should charge more. It isn't my fault that they are undervaluing the work involved in getting a signing completed.

Reply by DogmongerCA on 12/22/07 9:18am
Msg #227370

But Rachael you could be making 35.00 per hours

You just need the following. Just get the following list supplied to you for free:-)

1. One high quality digital camera
2. One state of the art vehicle that runs on air, and is maintenance free, or a life time supply of fuel and oil for a traditional vehicle, and free maintenance.
3. Lifetime free car insurance
4. Lifetime free liability and E&0 insurance
5. A free desktop and laptop whenever needed
6. Lifetime of free software
7 Free DSL service, and wireless card
8 Free GPS navigation system
9. Endless free supply of misc office supplies, paper, pens, clips, rechargeable batteries, chords, staples, ect.
10. Free laser printers, fax, copier and scanner as well as as a inverter to operate this equipment in the field


*** If they would be so kind to find you a sponsor for this small list of 10 items, you would be glad to work for $35.00 per hour:-o

***This is a basic list, feel free to add to it and by all means, pass it along to those who question your fees:-)

Reply by docs1954CA on 12/22/07 10:33am
Msg #227388

Re: But Rachael you could be making 35.00 per hours

These are the same crybabies that claim to not make anything on the deal, then in looking at the HUD you see them charging $ 350 or more...