Client freaking out over $650 Square D breaker upgrade

Had this homeowner call me in a panic about her flickering lights, turns out the old panel's toast so I quoted $650 to swap in a Square D QO load center with all new breakers. She's arguing it's too much and wants a cheaper fix, even though I explained the fire risk. NGL, dealing with these DIY types who think YouTube makes them experts is exhausting.

Square D is overpriced anyway, push Eaton BR instead and drop it to $500.

Man I feel you, had one last week cry about a $400 GFCI job.

Haha remember when that lady thought her Alexa was possessed? Turned out to be a loose neutral. Charged her $80 diagnostic and she tipped extra.

Same here brother, these clients act like we're printing money.

Insurance companies are the real villains, jacking up premiums after every claim.

Walk away if they push back that hard, plenty of fish who value safety.

FML, just dealt with a guy who installed his own 240V outlet with 14/2 romex. Nearly burned his garage down.

LOL these homeowners watch one Electrician U video and suddenly they're NEC experts.

Don't skimp on the torque specs when installing those breakers, loose ones cause 90% of callbacks.

Buddy of mine got sued over a cheap Chinese breaker that tripped constantly, cost him $10k in legal fees.

Quote T&M from the start, that way they see the clock ticking on their BS.

Ugh yeah, missing my kid's game again because of this crap.

PE firms buying up shops and dictating prices, it's screwing us independents.

SharkBite for plumbing maybe, but for panels stick to name brands or get ready for inspector hell.

Totally get it, hang in there man, next one's easier.