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Portugal Dream to Reality: Stress-Free Relocation & Renovation | Vetted contractors & network of professionals | Algarve Expat Home Renovation Consultant
It’s not what they say; it’s what they don’t say. Before the new windows were installed in our house in Portugal, some masonry work was needed, like enlarging the openings for windowsills or roller shutters. The window guy brought his masonry guy to check what needed to be done. We assumed the masonry work was included in “the windows” quote. Because at no point did anyone say: “X for the windows, plus Y for the masonry, plus Z for the natural stone sills.” It was just “the windows.” So we did what most humans do: we guessed. And guessed wrong. Luckily, this wasn’t our first rodeo. We asked. It turned out that the masonry and windowsills were not included. We got a separate quote for it. Fast-forward to install day for the French doors. The masonry guy starts cutting a rectangular hole above the doors. “What’s that for?” I asked. “For the rolling shutter,” he said. “Rolling shutter? For doors? That can’t be right.” He looked at my face, understood there was no point in arguing, stopped, fixed the wall, and moved on to the next chore. Later, I asked if we could use that part of the budget for other masonry jobs now that the shutter prep was unnecessary. “No,” he said. “The price you got was for all the masonry. It’s not itemised.” Still, I pushed a little and asked if there was room to work with. He did a mental calculation and didn’t give a price, but he pointed out which other jobs he could still do. It's not the outcome I had in mind (specific amounts for specific jobs), but it's still a win-win. He doesn’t lose money, and I get some extra work done. Takeaway? Always ask for a detailed breakdown of your quotes. And insist on it. Not everyone will be as accommodating when things change 😉 ❔ Have you ever assumed something was included in a quote and then had to deal with a surprise later? #livinginPortugal #homerenovations #renovations ---- Hi, I am Claudia. I help women set up their home renovations so they don't need to suffer mansplaining, feel they are paying too much, or get stuck when moving to the Algarve. With expert guidance, vetted contractors, and a step-by-step process, I ensure they feel confident and supported.