Awkward: EA says my quotes will be bumped up because I am a woman

[Deleted User]

I think the EA is a bit thick. Surely he realises by coming across like that, he's made damn sure any mate's quote he gets will be treated with super suspicion by a large percentage of the female house buying population. Out of the rest, if there is anyone who is vulnerable to that kind of persuasion he's in danger of making them feel so inadequate and mistrusting they'll just walk away from having anything to do with him.

Totally 'misguided'.

If you do get a quote from the EA's mate, make sure it includes a complete breakdown of costs and query anything that you are unsure of. That comment is not made because you are female, that's because no one in the general population is a roof expert.

rosyw

Sad to say it does occasionally happen, but not often in my experience and those that have tried it on with me have never been given the job you can usually tell when it's going to happen, those that call you "luv" or "darlin'" are often the culprits :rotfl:

I think I'd be telling the EA that as he is obviously sexist his mate is probably the same and therefore is more likely to load the quote than the "professionals" you have approached

Winter_Phoenix

I would say to the agent, "Ah, so you're telling me that you have overvalued the house by 10% or so, in case you get a female buyer? Thank you for telling me that - I think I shall now adjust my offer accordingly, and explain why to the owner."

SunReader

Sounds like EA is looking to minimise the price reduction.

You really need to find out exactly what is going to be involved, which might only become apparent when the original roof is removed to reveal the condition of what can't be seen now. Better than saying just 'fix this' a full specification would allow quotes to be compared, just as a project manager would do.

Women - and men who don't have much of a technical understanding often do get stitched-up; sad but true.

If you post some further details you might get some better advice from someone in the trade.

theartfullodger

Some people/companies put prices up if you are smartly dressed or drive a flash car.

Some people/companies put prices up if you are an ethnicity they don't like.

Some people/companies put prices up if you are old, appear doddery, or not with-it..

Some people/companies put prices up if you are young & arrogant.

Life ain't fair: Sometimes life ain't legal. Sh*t happens...

G_M

1) Ignore the agent. Totally.

2) Get more than one quote. At least 2, up to 4

3) Don't believe the marketing hype of an online forum that relies on contractors for its income and suggests you can trust those same contractors......

4) If you want a trustworthy recommendation, try

* Which?

* Trading Standards or go to your local council website - they'll have a local trusted trader scheme

* Federation of Master roofers

Marvel1

The less money you pay for the house, the less money the EA gets.

lush_walrus

cjdavies wrote: »

The less money you pay for the house, the less money the EA gets.

You do realise how little that difference is don't you? This nonsense comes up all the time on here so say your house is worth £500000, and let's say a 2 percent fee, overall fee is £10000. So buyer reduces the offer by £20000 to £480000 that takes the fee to £9600. Do you see now even with a big reduction and a relatively high fee and above average asking price the difference is £400. Believe me that is NOTHING in EA fee terms. Really it is nothing.

SunReader

+1 above, 1 percent is a more average industry standard it seems so it isn't worth them quibbling too hard over a just a few quid. Although they do like to get top money as it helps get other properties on their books by having a recent local comparable that sold well.

Could be a good bargaining chip for Op. as long as she doesn't over egg it. Ask for a a top spec job and get some quotes accordingly, even if a cheaper more basic option is taken later.

ScorpiondeRooftrouser

Just tell him not to try such stupid tricks on you. If he pretends not to understand, explain clearly. if he denies it, laugh in his face and tell him you'll speak again when it becomes necessary.