Courtesy Discounts
(by David Maloney) A courtesy discount is a reduction in one’s fee for services provided. I suppose those who offer courtesy discounts feel that by discounting their fees, their chances of obtaining future business from the client are enhanced. I’ve often wondered if the client, like Pavlov’s dog, will come to expect additional courtesy discounts in the future, and what his or her reaction would be if not offered a courtesy discount for future assignments. But I digress.
I, personally, do not recall ever having received a courtesy discount from any type of service provider, be it my attorney, accountant, financial advisor, appliance repairman, plumber, electrician, etc. Never.
And as a professional appraiser, I have never offered courtesy discounts nor will I ever offer them. While others might willingly give away their appraisal services, I choose not to do so.