Same price. A regular client reaps the rewards of an easy tuning as I am disposed to do more. And there is more to do forever. Tighten screws, do a little let-off, improve hammer, line, tighten pedals, lubricate them, level a key, voice an outstanding hammer, clean out some dirt etc, etc. Whatever seems most appropriate if there is time. I believe this "free" time is a profitable for two reasons. 1) It is in this 5min to 30min period most full day or half day maintanace work is sold. Most Dammp-Chasers, hammer jobs, etc. are sold with the client seeing and appreciating what regulation is, what voicing is. 2) I believe it shows the client I care. Increases their loyalty. It increases trust, If I recommend something, they are more incline to do it. Regular clients are the key to high income. I can do 5 regulars easy in a day. 3 new ones can be far more stressful, takes far more time, produces less income at the end of the week. Perhaps extra time is spent on client education, chatting with a client. During a 45min tuning yesterday, I realized as the furnace kicked in, the piano sits upon a heat vent. I spent my 30min convincing them to move the piano to the other wall. I love my regulars because saving time is money. They are low stress, and low maintanace. For one... I don't need to spend time with a map. I would rather do 2 min of tighten hardware then 2min with my map. Also, I hate calling strangers to sell, but after many years visting their homes they ask me to call and remind them. I don't like to sell. I don't have to sell because they are looking over my shoulder asking "what are you doing", and they want more. Actually, its become a problem...theres too much work. When they ask for more I find myself putting some off. Gotta love it. Dave Renaud RPT _______________________________________________________ Build your own website in minutes and for free at http://ca.geocities.com
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