I have been in business for 25 years in the Melbourne area and have lived here since 1969. I have one helper on a regular basis and will ask a son-in-law or two to help on occasion. My company is insured. I can supply references upon request.
We have never advertised for business. For the past 25 years, it has been solely by word of mouth; and for those customers, I thank you.
All estimates are free of charge. I will set up a time (usually in the evening or over the weekend) to come see your job and discuss exactly what you need. At that time, most often I will give you a price for the total job. I do not do an hourly rate unless under very rare conditions. The reason for this is I never want my customers to feel I am dragging a job out just to make an extra hour or two. If it takes me longer than expected, then I will absorb that cost.
I am also prompt. If I say I will be at your home on Monday at 8:30 AM, I will be there. I do not like waiting for anything and I do not feel my customers should have to either.