How to create a better sales proposal: 11 attachments residential contractors should always include

Sales proposals are a key element to securing new business for residential contractors. A quote scribbled on the back of a brochure is not going to cut it. Customers want to see digital designs, warranty and legal information, and a breakdown of costs. Attaching extras to your proposal sets your business apart from the competition, communicates professional value, and builds a relationship with your customer before they've signed on the dotted line.

Here are the 11 best attachments for residential contractors to add to their sales proposals.

1. Logo & Branding

Your logo is a visual representation of your business. A good logo creates brand awareness and helps potential customers remember your name. Putting your logo on the top page of your sales proposal keeps your branding consistent and your business more memorable.

Make a strong first impression by attaching your logo to your sales proposals.

2. Product Details

Not every customer wants to read 15 pages of product details, but some do. Many customers want to know exactly what products are being installed, and most companies will provide pdfs of their product details, making it easy to download and attach these documents to your custom proposals. Because for some customers, there's no such thing as "too much information."

Put your best foot forward by attaching product details to your sales proposals.

3. Warranty

Perhaps your company offers a warranty on products and services. This sends a message to your customers that they will be receiving the quality of goods and services from your company that they expect. Your warranty is all about showing that you back up your work and the products you offer. It also protects your business from performing additional services not covered in the warranty.

A warranty is one of the most important documents to attach to your sales proposals.

4. Legal Disclaimers

Attaching a legal disclaimer to your sales print protects your business against legal claims. Disclaimers vary widely by industry, so you should consult with a legal professional before attaching your disclaimer. Some things to consider in the "fine print" include legal, privacy, and financial agreements.

A legal disclaimer might not be the flashiest attachment to your sales proposal, but it could be the document that saves your business the most time and money in the long run.

5. Coupons & Deals

Take advantage of an opportunity to get new and repeat business by attaching deals to your sales proposals. Provide a 10% off coupon if they hire you again within the year. Take $50 off if they leave a review or $100 off if you can put a sign in their front yard for a week. Perhaps you'd like to offer a deal that adds them to your list of references. These are just a few examples of how to create win-win opportunities for your customers and your business.

Never miss an opportunity to capture more business with new customers by attaching coupons and deals to your sales proposals.

6. Referral Incentives

Statistics show that more effective than any advertising or marketing can achieve, word-of-mouth referrals are by far the most powerful way to generate new business. Customers are likely to recommend your business if they had a good experience, and even more likely to tell a friend about your company if there's something in it for them. Consider rewarding those who send new business your way with discounts, gift cards, and other incentives.

Turn one good customer into many more by attaching referral incentives to your sales proposals.

7. Licensing & Certification

Your business works hard to maintain up-to-date licensing and certifications from local, state, and national institutions. Customers can take comfort knowing that your company has the appropriate knowledge and skill set to perform the job. Attaching licensing and certification documents to your sales proposals shows you have the professionalism needed to do the job the right way.

Attaching official emblems, certification dates, and licensing information to your sales proposals shows customers that your business is professional, regulated, and experienced.

8. Insurance

Another way to reassure your customers that they are selecting a reputable company is by attaching insurance information. This includes the type of insurance, the amount of coverage, and what exactly is covered by your business in the event of a mishap. Moreover, if a contractor is not insured and injures themselves, they can sue the homeowner. Having the proper insurance sends a message that you have planned for the unexpected and have protections in place for your business, your employees, and your customers.

Customers like seeing insurance coverage on your sales proposals for added peace of mind, knowing they are shielded from liability in the event of an injury or property damage.

9. Payment Options

If getting paid on time is an issue for your business, consider attaching incentives to your sales proposals that encourage customers to pay on time, or even ahead of time. Keeping a consistent stream of revenue coming in is crucial for small businesses trying to grow. Early payment and cash discounts are a great way to keep money flowing into your business. In the same sense, disincentives can be included here as well, noting things like late payment fees and other consequences for delinquent payment.

Keep the cash flowing in a timely matter by offering payment options for customers who pay before the due date.

10. References & Testimonials

Residential contractors are often asked to provide references to new customers. Homeowners want to see if your business has done this type of work before, and what sort of reputation your work carries with it. Set yourself apart from the competition by attaching references and testimonials from satisfied customers.

Take every opportunity to one-up your competition by attaching a professional, branded reference list that includes reviews and testimonials from former clients.

11. Digital Drawing

Adding a professional, digital drawing of the work you'll be doing is key to a professional sales proposal. This effective visual allows customers to see the scope of the work and where the products will be installed. A customized design also shows your professionalism and attention to detail.

Every sales proposal powered by ArcSite attaches your digital drawing to deliver customers a professional, precise design.

ArcSite powers effective sales proposals for residential contractors

ArcSite allows users to attach tons of extras to their sales proposals. Not only does this option allow businesses to attach important "fine print" like legal disclaimers and warranties, it also helps companies stand out in the sea of generic proposals by attaching creative elements like logos, drawings, coupons, and more.

Ready to see how ArcSite can elevate your sales proposals, save time and money, and close more business? Request a demo to see ArcSite in action.