Had a chat with a cheap homeowner that stuck with me
Guy in Cleveland wanted me to install a basic DSC system and argued every point about running wires through the attic. Said his brother saved $200 doing it himself and why should he pay me more. Do you guys even bother trying to explain labor costs or just walk from jobs like that?
That "his brother saved $200 doing it himself" line always gets me. It shows how people see labor as optional and don't think about the time, tools, and know-how that go into a clean install. This happens everywhere, not just in trades - people will drive across town to save five bucks on gas without counting the wear on their car or their own time.
Honestly, that reminds me of this guy I knew who spent three hours driving around town to save twelve bucks on a case of beer. Like, buddy, your time is worth something, even if you don't think it is. People just don't see the hidden costs of doing stuff themselves.