how to fire a client who thinks deep clean is a quick wipe-down

got this call from a landlord needing a turnover clean on his condo after tenants bailed. he swears it's a 90-minute gig tops, even with pet hair everywhere and grout that's seen better days. place is actually 70 sqm with two baths, balcony full of grime, and a kitchen island i know will take scrubbing. quoted him 60 euros to make the drive and supplies worth it -- he balked and said he'd get his buddy to do it cheaper. checked the listing online, yeah it's bigger and fancier than he let on. why do these owners always lowball like we're hobbyists? what's your move when they undervalue the real work?

walk away fast. anyone who lowballs from the jump ain't worth the headache.

had a similar one last month. quoted fair for a 3-bed with tile floors needing acid wash, he countered with half. told him to call the buddy and blocked the number.

i used to take those gigs early on, like a vacation rental with sand in every crevice -- 3 hours real time, paid like 1. now i stick to my rate sheet and let 'em go if they whine.

just say no and move on. life's too short for delusional landlords.

in my area, we charge extra for balconies and pet messes upfront. if they push back, explain the time for detailing glass rails or whatever. most get it, the rest find out the hard way with their 'buddy'. once had a guy call back apologizing after the amateur left streaks everywhere -- paid double next time.

don't waste breath schooling them. they know the score but wanna exploit anyway.