Blog #9: What Exactly is a “Free Estimate”?

You might be surprised…

At Adobe Masters, like most reputable contractors, we offer free estimates. But it’s important to be clear about what that means—and what it doesn’t.

I’ve been in business since the early 1980s, and from the beginning, I’ve provided free estimates to homeowners. This is common practice in the industry, but I’ve learned over the decades that many people misunderstand the scope of a “free estimate” and who qualifies for one.

What a Free Estimate Looks Like

Here’s a typical scenario:

A homeowner calls me and asks for an estimate to repair damaged adobe and reseal their home. I ask a few basic questions—name, address, type of adobe construction, and what kind of deterioration they’re seeing. If everything checks out, I schedule a visit.

At the home, I examine the property and provide a written estimate for the cost of the work. If the homeowner finds the price reasonable, we proceed with a signed contract, down payment, and scheduled work.

That’s the traditional, straightforward “free estimate.”

Where Things Get Complicated

Sometimes I receive calls that start the same way but have a twist. For example:

“Hi, I own an adobe home and I’m wondering if you can come over and give me an estimate to fix it.”

On the surface, this sounds like a standard request. But after a little clarification, I sometimes discover that the caller is not actually the homeowner. Instead, they’re a potential buyer of the property—often somewhere in their 10-day inspection period after signing a real estate purchase agreement.

These callers want me to evaluate the condition of the adobe and provide a written estimate of repair costs. While I understand the need for this information during a home purchase, this is not the same as a free estimate for a current homeowner.

Owner vs. Buyer: A Legal Distinction

Here’s the difference:

  • Legal Title: Belongs to the seller until closing. They hold the deed, can transfer ownership, and are the true legal owner.
  • Equitable Interest: Belongs to the buyer once the purchase agreement is signed. The buyer has the right to obtain legal title if the contract terms are met, but they are not yet the legal owner.

In other words: if you’ve signed a contract to buy a house, you may have an equitable interest—but you’re not the legal owner until closing.

As a former licensed real estate agent, I can say this with confidence. I trained, passed the exams, and worked in the industry long enough to know the difference—and it matters.

Why It Matters for Contractors

I believe most buyers are genuinely mistaken when they call me claiming to be the owner. But others deliberately misrepresent themselves, hoping to use my written estimate as a bargaining chip to pressure the seller into lowering their price.

That’s not what a free estimate is for. Preparing a detailed professional evaluation, measuring, and writing up repair costs for use in a real estate negotiation is not an “estimate”—it’s a consultation and consultations are a paid service. Click here to learn details of Adobe Master’s consultations.

This is no different than how buyers routinely pay for home inspections, termite inspections, structural engineers, electricians, roofers, and plumbers. Professionals charge for their expertise—and adobe specialists are far rarer than most other trades.

My Policy

  • If you are the legal homeowner (your name is on the deed): You’re welcome to request a free estimate for repair or restoration.
  • If you are a buyer under contract (in the inspection period): Your request falls under paid consultation. My time and expertise will help you make an informed decision, but it will not be free.

Final Thoughts

Free estimates are a courtesy offered to homeowners to help them plan repairs and maintenance. They are not intended as free professional reports for real estate negotiations.

If you own your adobe home, call or text me (520-331-4004) anytime for a free estimate. If you prefer email: adobemastr@gmail.com

If you’re in the process of buying one, I’ll be glad to help through a paid consultation.