First follow-up 2 days after sending the estimate — long enough that they've seen it, soon enough that you're still fresh in mind. Then day 7 and day 14. Most homeowners decide within the first two weeks; after day 14 your odds drop sharply.
When a homeowner gets an estimate, they usually act on it quickly or not at all. The first two weeks are when the decision is actually live — they're comparing bids, checking their budget, and picturing the work done. Wait a month and you're often a distant memory.
That's why the whole follow-up sequence fits inside 14 days. You want to be present while the job is still on their mind, then let it go gracefully if it isn't.
Two days gives them time to open the estimate and read it, without enough time for the trail to go cold. The goal here is simple: make sure it landed and offer to answer questions.
If you learn the estimate went to spam, or they never opened it, you just saved the job by asking.
By day 7, a silent customer is often stuck rather than uninterested. Give them something that moves the decision forward: a schedule opening, a rebate or financing detail, or a clarification of what's included.
The final touch asks for a decision without applying pressure. Give them a clean choice: keep it moving, or close it out for now.
This message gets replies because it's easy to answer. A simple "not yet" is still useful — it tells you to follow up later instead of wondering.
When a customer gives you a date, that date becomes the best time to follow up. Put it on your calendar and reach out that day, even if it doesn't line up with Day 2, 7, or 14.
If they say "let me talk to my wife this weekend," follow up Monday. If they say "after payday," follow up the day after. You're no longer guessing at timing — you're using theirs.
QuoteChaser drafts every follow-up in your trade's voice — you approve each send.
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