"Hi [Client Names], thanks for having me today. It's great to finally see the space/meet you in person."

(Engage in brief, genuine small talk related to the project or their home.
Observe your surroundings for conversation starters.)

"I'm excited to learn more about your vision for this project.
Before we dive in, did you have any initial questions you wanted to ask me?"

"To make the most of our time today, I'd like to suggest a general framework for our conversation. First, I'd love to hear more about your goals for this project and what you're hoping to achieve. Then, I can share a bit about our process and how we typically work with clients. Finally, we can discuss some specifics like timelines, potential challenges, and next steps. Does that sound good to you?"

"My main goal today is to understand your needs and see if we're a good fit to work together. There's absolutely no obligation, and it's okay to say 'no' if you feel it's not the right match. At the same time, if you like what you hear and believe we can help you achieve your vision, then it's okay to say 'yes' to exploring the next steps. All I ask is that you be open to sharing your thoughts and giving me a clear yes or no at the end. How does that sound?"

"So, tell me a bit more about what inspired you to take on this [project type] project."

"What are some of the key things you're hoping to achieve with this remodel/new build?"

"Have you done any renovations/built a home before? What was that experience like?"

"What's your biggest concern or challenge going into this project?"

"What does your timeline look like for this project?"

"What's most important to you in choosing a builder/contractor?"

"Have you already started speaking with other builders/getting quotes?"

(If they mention budget): "That's helpful to know. Many of our clients have a general budget in mind but find it helpful to explore different options and see how they align with their vision. We can definitely discuss how to maximize your investment and achieve your goals within your budget."

(If they have design inspiration): "These are great! Can you tell me a bit more about what you like about these specific designs/elements?"

(Use the client selections checklist as a guide, but keep it conversational. Focus on understanding their motivations and priorities.)

(Take detailed notes, actively listen, and ask clarifying questions.)

"So, tell me a bit more about what inspired you to take on this [project type] project."

"What are some of the key things you're hoping to achieve with this remodel/new build?"

"Have you done any renovations/built a home before? What was that experience like?"

"What's your biggest concern or challenge going into this project?"

"What does your timeline look like for this project?"

"What's most important to you in choosing a builder/contractor?"

"Have you already started speaking with other builders/getting quotes?"

(If they mention budget): "That's helpful to know. Many of our clients have a general budget in mind but find it helpful to explore different options and see how they align with their vision. We can definitely discuss how to maximize your investment and achieve your goals within your budget."

(If they have design inspiration): "These are great! Can you tell me a bit more about what you like about these specific designs/elements?"

(Use the client selections checklist as a guide, but keep it conversational. Focus on understanding their motivations and priorities.)

(Take detailed notes, actively listen, and ask clarifying questions.)

"Let's imagine the project is complete, and you're living in your newly remodeled space/dream home. What does that look and feel like?"

"How do you envision using this new space?"

"What are some of the 'must-haves' for this project?"

"Are there any specific design elements or features that are particularly important to you?"

"If you could wave a magic wand, what would be the ideal outcome of this project?"

(Continue to use the client selections checklist as a guide, but focus on the 'why' behind their choices.)

"Thinking about everything we've discussed, and understanding that it's still early in the process, do you have a budget range in mind for this project?"

(If they provide a budget): "That's helpful. Based on your vision and the scope of work we've discussed, that budget seems [realistic/ambitious/low]. We can certainly explore options within that range and discuss how to maximize your investment."

(If they are hesitant about the budget): "No problem. Many of our clients find it helpful to first explore the possibilities and then work with us to align their vision with a realistic budget. We're happy to provide some preliminary estimates based on what we've discussed."

(Transition to "The Gap"): "So, it sounds like your current situation is [briefly summarize their current state and challenges], and your ideal future is [briefly summarize their desired future state]. What are some of the biggest obstacles preventing you from bridging that gap and achieving your vision?"

"What would be the impact on your [lifestyle, family, well-being, etc.] if you were to achieve this vision?"

"What would be the impact if you were unable to make these changes?"

"Based on everything we've discussed today, I'm confident that we can help you achieve your goals for this project. It sounds like [mention a specific pain point or goal] is a top priority for you, and our process is designed to address that directly."

"The next step would be to [describe your specific next step, e.g., "schedule a more in-depth design consultation," "develop a preliminary proposal and budget estimate," "create a detailed scope of work"]. This will allow us to [explain the benefits of the next step, e.g., "further refine your design preferences," "provide you with accurate pricing," "develop a comprehensive project plan"].

"We have found that setting a date for our clients to have their quotes in helps keep the process moving forward for them. Are you speaking with any other companies? Would you like to set a date to have their quotes in by so that you can make a decision? That will help prevent this process from dragging on, meaning that we can get started on your project sooner."

"How does that sound? Would you like to move forward with [the next step]?"

(If yes): "Fantastic! Let's get that scheduled right now. I have [mention your availability]." (Sign Authorization to proceed if applicable).

(If no): "I understand. Thanks for taking the time to explore this with me. I appreciate your honesty. Would you mind if I followed up in a few months to see how things are progressing?