Alphablinds.ie Review

Based on looking at the website, Alphablinds.ie appears to be a legitimate local business specializing in made-to-measure window coverings in County Cork, Ireland.

While the site provides essential contact information and a clear description of services, it lacks several elements that are typically found on highly trusted and comprehensive online platforms for home improvement services.

This absence of certain features might raise questions for users accustomed to more robust online presences, even for local businesses.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Professionalism: Appears professional, but minimalistic.
• Product Clarity: Clear description of blind types offered.
• Contact Information: Provides phone numbers, email, and business hours.
• Online Transaction Capability: Lacks online ordering or payment options.
• Customer Reviews/Testimonials: No visible customer feedback section.
• FAQ Section: Absent, potentially leaving common questions unanswered.
• Privacy Policy/Terms of Service: Not readily apparent.
• Social Media Presence: Not linked or visible.
• Local Focus: Strongly oriented towards County Cork, Ireland.

While Alphablinds.ie presents itself as a local provider of window blinds, its online presence, as viewed from the homepage, suggests a very traditional, inquiry-based business model.

For a consumer seeking a more modern, transparent online experience with immediate information and trust signals, the website leaves a few gaps.

There’s no evident section for customer testimonials, no privacy policy or terms of service easily found, and no immediate way to gauge the experiences of past clients.

This isn’t necessarily a red flag for a small, local business, but it’s a point of consideration for those expecting a more detailed online verification process before making contact.

Best Alternatives for Window Coverings:

• Blinds.com: A leading online retailer for custom window blinds, shades, and shutters. Offers a vast selection, free samples, professional measuring and installation services, and a satisfaction guarantee. Known for competitive pricing and frequent sales.
• SelectBlinds.com: Another strong online competitor providing a wide array of custom window treatments. Emphasizes DIY installation with detailed guides, offers free samples, and often has significant discounts. Their focus is on affordability without compromising quality.
• The Shade Store: Offers a premium selection of custom window treatments made from high-quality materials. Provides free design consultations, professional measurement, and installation services. Appeals to those looking for high-end, designer-quality options.
• American Blinds: A well-established online store for blinds, shades, and curtains. Features a wide variety of styles, materials, and colors, often at discounted prices. Offers free shipping on most orders and a satisfaction guarantee.
• Home Depot Blinds: Offers both ready-made and custom-order blinds and shades. Provides in-store design services, professional measurement, and installation. A good option for those who prefer to see products in person before ordering or need assistance with the process.
• Lowes Blinds: Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s offers a wide range of stock and custom window treatments. Provides expert assistance, installation services, and frequent promotions, catering to various budgets and styles.
• Costco Blinds: For Costco members, this option provides a streamlined process for custom window treatments, often through partnerships with major brands like Bali and Graber. Known for competitive pricing and good customer service for bulk purchases or larger home projects.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Alphablinds.ie Review & First Look

When you first land on Alphablinds.ie, the immediate impression is one of a straightforward, local business. There’s no flashy animation, no overwhelming pop-ups—just a clean, albeit somewhat basic, layout. The prominent banner clearly states “Voted Best Window Blinds Supplier – Munster,” which is a strong local claim, immediately signaling their regional focus. The site aims to convey professionalism and expertise in window coverings, listing various types of blinds: Shutters, Blackout Blinds, Roman Blinds, Roller Blinds, Venetian Blinds, Vertical Blinds, and Perfect Fit Blinds. This directness is a double-edged sword. it’s easy to grasp what they do, but it also leaves little room for discovery or deeper engagement common with modern e-commerce sites.

Initial User Experience and Navigation

The navigation is simplistic, relying on a few static links primarily within the footer.

This structure suggests that the website serves more as a digital business card rather than a comprehensive online retail platform.

Users looking for quick information—like contact details or the types of blinds offered—will find it easily.

However, if your goal is to browse extensive catalogs, compare options, or read customer testimonials, you’ll hit a wall pretty quickly.

The lack of an intuitive top-level navigation menu is a notable absence.

• Direct Approach: The site quickly communicates its core service: custom window blinds.
• Limited Navigation: Few clickable elements beyond direct product links in the footer.
• Information Hierarchy: Essential contact details are prominently displayed, but other crucial information is missing.
• Mobile Responsiveness: While not explicitly tested through the provided text, the simplicity of the layout suggests it might render adequately on mobile, but a truly optimized experience isn’t evident.

First Impressions on Trust and Legitimacy

The presence of specific contact numbers for both landline and mobile, along with a dedicated email address and defined business hours Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 5:30 pm, adds a layer of authenticity.

For a local service provider, these details are crucial trust signals.

The mention of “complimentary in-home appointment” with “no cost and no obligation” is a clever way to lower the barrier to entry for potential customers, indicating a service-oriented approach.

This personal touch is often preferred by local businesses looking to build direct relationships with their clientele. Proof-reading.com Review

• Clear Contact Info: Phone numbers, email, and business hours build trust.
• Physical Presence Hint: The “Midleton Tel” suggests a physical base of operations, even if no address is listed.
• Service-Oriented Pitch: Free, no-obligation quotes emphasize customer convenience.
• Local Recognition: “Voted Best Window Blinds Supplier – Munster” is a strong local credibility indicator.

Alphablinds.ie Pros & Cons

Every website, much like every business, has its strengths and weaknesses.

For Alphablinds.ie, understanding these points is crucial for potential customers deciding if it aligns with their expectations for an online service provider, particularly in the window covering niche.

Advantages of Alphablinds.ie

The primary advantages of Alphablinds.ie revolve around its clear local focus and the traditional, service-oriented business model it presents.

For customers in County Cork looking for a personalized experience, these aspects could be highly appealing.

• Local Expertise: The “Voted Best Window Blinds Supplier – Munster” claim immediately positions them as a recognized and potentially trusted local expert. This local focus means they likely understand regional housing styles, climate considerations, and customer preferences better than a large national or international chain.
• Personalized Service: The offer of a “complimentary in-home appointment” for measurement and quotation is a significant advantage. This eliminates the guesswork often associated with online blind purchases and ensures a perfect fit. It also provides a direct opportunity for customers to discuss their specific needs and aesthetic preferences face-to-face.
• Clear Contact Information: Providing direct phone numbers landline and mobile and an email address, along with defined business hours, makes it easy for potential customers to reach out. This transparency builds initial trust, which is vital for service-based businesses.
• Specialization in Custom Solutions: By emphasizing “made-to-measure” solutions, Alphablinds.ie caters to specific, unique window dimensions, which is a common challenge for homeowners. This focus on customization suggests a higher level of service compared to off-the-shelf options.
• Diverse Product Range Listed: The website clearly lists a variety of blind types, including Shutters, Blackout Blinds, Roman Blinds, Roller Blinds, Venetian Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Motorised, and Perfect Fit Blinds. This indicates they can meet a wide range of functional and aesthetic needs.

Disadvantages of Alphablinds.ie

While its local, service-focused approach has merits, the website’s online functionality and informational depth present several limitations when compared to modern e-commerce standards or more comprehensive business websites.

• No Customer Reviews or Testimonials: Trust is built on social proof. The absence of a dedicated section for customer reviews, ratings, or testimonials means potential clients have no immediate way to gauge the experiences of previous customers directly on the site. While they claim to be “Voted Best,” specific public testimonials would reinforce this.
• Limited Visual Content/Product Catalog: The homepage lists product types but offers no extensive image galleries, detailed product descriptions, material options, or color swatches. This makes it difficult for users to visualize products or compare styles before an in-home consultation.
• Missing Essential Website Pages: Key pages like a “Privacy Policy,” “Terms of Service,” or a detailed “About Us” section are not immediately visible. These are crucial for legal compliance, transparency, and building user confidence, especially concerning data handling.
• No FAQ Section: A comprehensive FAQ section can pre-empt many common customer queries, saving both the customer and the business time. Its absence means all questions must be handled through direct communication, potentially overloading their contact channels.
• Geographic Limitation: While a pro for local customers, the business is clearly limited to County Cork, Ireland, which is a con for anyone outside that specific region. This isn’t a flaw in their business model but an important consideration for a global audience.

Alphablinds.ie Alternatives

For those seeking window covering solutions, whether you’re looking for a more robust online experience, a broader selection, or simply want to compare options, there are numerous reputable alternatives to a local, inquiry-based service like Alphablinds.ie.

These alternatives often offer extensive online catalogs, design tools, and nationwide or even international shipping.

Online Retailers with Extensive Selection

These platforms are designed for convenience, allowing you to browse, customize, and order from the comfort of your home.

They typically offer a wider range of styles, materials, and price points.

• Blinds.com Jonnierocket.com Review

  • Key Features: North America’s #1 online retailer of custom window blinds. Offers a massive selection of blinds, shades, and shutters from various brands. Provides free samples, design consultants, and often free shipping. Known for its extensive how-to guides and measurement tutorials, making DIY installation feasible.
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on product type, material, and customization, but competitive. Roller blinds might start at $30-$50, while shutters can go into hundreds per window.
  • Pros: Huge variety, frequent sales, professional installation services available in many areas, excellent customer support, comprehensive online tools.
  • Cons: Can be overwhelming due to choice, measuring accurately is critical for DIY, returns can be complex for custom items.
  • Data Point: Blinds.com ships over 1 million custom window treatments annually across the U.S. and Canada. Source: Blinds.com corporate information.

• SelectBlinds.com

  • Key Features: Specializes in affordable, high-quality custom window treatments. Strong focus on DIY, with comprehensive measurement and installation instructions. Offers free samples, a “surefit” guarantee they’ll remake if you mismeasure, and often runs significant discounts.
  • Average Price: Generally positioned as a value-driven option, with many blind types starting under $50.
  • Pros: Cost-effective, user-friendly interface, excellent DIY resources, good customer service, “surefit” guarantee reduces measurement anxiety.
  • Cons: Less emphasis on professional installation though available in some areas, some perceive material quality to be slightly lower than premium brands, but still good value.
  • Data Point: Over 5 million windows covered by SelectBlinds products. Source: SelectBlinds.com about page.

Premium and Design-Focused Options

For those prioritizing high-end materials, unique designs, and professional white-glove service, these alternatives offer a more curated and luxurious experience.

• The Shade Store
  • Key Features: Offers custom window treatments crafted from exclusive materials and designs. Provides free design consultations online, in-store, or in-home, professional measurement, and installation services. Focuses on premium quality and a seamless experience.
  • Average Price: Higher price point, reflecting premium materials and service. Roller shades might start from $100-$200, with more elaborate options significantly higher.
  • Pros: Superior material quality, expert design advice, professional service from start to finish, extensive showrooms for in-person viewing.
  • Cons: Significantly more expensive, might not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers, fewer DIY options.
  • Data Point: The Shade Store has over 100 showrooms across the United States. Source: The Shade Store store locator.

Large Retail Chains with Window Treatment Departments

These provide a blend of online and in-store shopping, allowing you to see products firsthand while still offering custom order options.

They leverage their extensive supply chains for competitive pricing and service networks for installation.

• Home Depot Blinds

  • Key Features: Offers a wide selection of ready-made blinds and shades, as well as custom-order options from brands like Levolor and Bali. Provides in-store design services, professional measurement, and installation services through its Home Services division.
  • Average Price: Wide range from budget-friendly ready-mades under $20 to custom solutions hundreds per window.
  • Pros: Convenient for in-person browsing, competitive pricing, extensive installation network, financing options.
  • Cons: Custom order process can be slower than online specialists, customer service experience can vary by store location.
  • Data Point: The Home Depot operates over 2,300 retail stores across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, making it accessible for in-person consultations. Source: The Home Depot corporate information.
• Lowes Blinds

  • Key Features: Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s offers a comprehensive selection of window treatments, including popular brands and custom options. Provides design consultation, professional measurement, and installation services. Known for frequent promotions and a strong focus on home improvement.
  • Average Price: Comparable to Home Depot, catering to various budgets.
  • Pros: Broad product range, reliable installation services, easy in-store access for product viewing, good for bundled home projects.
  • Cons: Custom order lead times, online experience might be less streamlined than pure online retailers.
  • Data Point: Lowe’s operates over 2,200 home improvement and hardware stores across the U.S. and Canada. Source: Lowe’s corporate information.

Membership-Based Value Options

For those with a membership, these stores can offer competitive pricing on quality custom solutions through partnerships with established brands.

• Costco Blinds
  • Key Features: Typically partners with major blind manufacturers e.g., Bali, Graber to offer custom window treatments to its members at competitive prices. The process often involves an in-home consultation, measurement, and professional installation managed through the partner brand.
  • Average Price: Good value for custom blinds, especially for larger orders, but price varies by partner brand and product.
  • Pros: Reputable partners, often includes professional services measurement/installation, good value for members, high-quality products.
  • Cons: Requires Costco membership, limited selection compared to dedicated blind retailers, process is less DIY-friendly.
  • Data Point: Costco boasts over 120 million cardholders worldwide, indicating a vast potential customer base for its services. Source: Costco Investor Relations.

Alphablinds.ie Pricing

Based on the information available on the Alphablinds.ie homepage, there is no specific pricing information provided for any of their products or services. This is a crucial detail that distinguishes their business model from typical online retailers.

The “Free Quotations” Model

Alphablinds.ie explicitly states: “We’ll arrange a complimentary in-home appointment at your convenience to discuss your needs, measure your windows, and provide a quote – all with no cost and no obligation on your part.”

• No Upfront Pricing: This means you cannot get an idea of the cost of their Roman Blinds, Roller Blinds, Venetian Blinds, or any other product without engaging in a direct consultation.
• Personalized Quotes: The pricing model is entirely based on personalized quotes, which are generated after an in-home measurement. This approach is common for custom, made-to-measure products where dimensions, material choices, and installation complexities significantly impact the final price.
• Factors Influencing Price: While not detailed on the website, it’s standard in the industry that the price of custom blinds is influenced by:
  • Type of Blind: Shutters are generally more expensive than roller blinds.
  • Material: Wood, faux wood, aluminum, fabric type e.g., blackout, thermal all have different price points.
  • Size of Window: Larger windows naturally require more material and thus cost more.
  • Motorization: Motorized blinds are significantly more expensive than manual ones due to the added technology.
  • Installation Complexity: Very large, high, or unusually shaped windows might incur higher installation costs.
  • Quantity: Sometimes, ordering multiple blinds might qualify for a bulk discount, though this isn’t stated on the site.

Implications for the Consumer

The absence of upfront pricing has both positive and negative implications for potential customers: Octalsoftware.com.sg Review

• Pros:
  • Accuracy: The quote will be precise, based on exact measurements and your specific choices, minimizing surprises.
  • Personalized Advice: The in-home consultation allows you to receive expert advice tailored to your home and needs, helping you choose the best options.
  • No Hidden Fees: The “no cost and no obligation” promise for the quote is transparent.
• Cons:
  • Time Commitment: You need to schedule and be present for an appointment before getting any price indication. This can be time-consuming if you’re just exploring options or comparing multiple providers.
  • Comparison Difficulty: It’s challenging to compare Alphablinds.ie’s prices with competitors who offer online pricing or estimation tools without going through their full quotation process.
  • Lack of Transparency: For some consumers, the lack of even a general price range or starting prices on the website can be a deterrent, making it harder to budget or decide if their services are within an acceptable price bracket.

In essence, Alphablinds.ie operates on a traditional, service-based pricing model, prioritizing personalized service over immediate online price transparency.

This approach caters to customers who value direct consultation and accurate, all-inclusive quotes for custom solutions.

How Alphablinds.ie Compares to Online Retailers

When you look at Alphablinds.ie through the lens of a typical online consumer, it’s clear it operates on a fundamentally different model than large-scale e-commerce blind retailers.

This isn’t necessarily a flaw, but it defines who their ideal customer is and what kind of experience they offer.

Localized Service vs. Global Reach

• Alphablinds.ie: Strictly local, serving “throughout County Cork.” Their strength is in their geographic focus, allowing for personalized, in-home consultations and measurements. This is ideal for customers who prefer a local business they can directly engage with, who value precision over speed, and who might not be comfortable with DIY measurements.
• Online Retailers e.g., Blinds.com, SelectBlinds.com: These companies serve vast geographic areas, typically nationwide or even internationally. Their model relies on customers taking their own measurements with extensive online guides and often performing their own installation. This offers unparalleled convenience and speed for those who are comfortable with DIY or can hire local installers.

Quotation and Pricing Model

• Alphablinds.ie: Employs a “free quotation” model that requires an in-home visit. This means no upfront pricing on their website. The cost is determined after precise measurements and discussions about material and style.
• Online Retailers: Provide immediate online pricing. You input your dimensions, select materials, and get an instant quote. While this offers transparency and speed, it also means the responsibility for accurate measurements largely rests with the customer, though some offer “surefit” guarantees.

Product Selection and Visualization

• Alphablinds.ie: Lists various types of blinds but offers no visual catalog, material samples, or detailed product specifications on the website. Customers must rely on the in-home consultation to see samples and make choices.
• Online Retailers: Feature extensive online catalogs with high-quality images, detailed product descriptions, material options, color swatches, and often virtual design tools. Many offer free physical samples to be mailed to your home, allowing for a tactile and visual assessment before purchase. This empowers customers to make informed decisions independently.

Customer Support and Engagement

• Alphablinds.ie: Customer support is primarily direct and personal via phone or email, leading to an in-home consultation. The website lacks a FAQ section, live chat, or customer review features.
• Online Retailers: Offer multiple support channels: phone, email, live chat, extensive FAQ sections, and detailed how-to guides. They also typically feature customer reviews and testimonials prominently, providing social proof and transparency. Their efficiency is in handling a high volume of diverse customer inquiries through automated and semi-automated systems.

Installation Services

• Alphablinds.ie: Likely includes professional installation as part of their service, given the made-to-measure and in-home consultation model. This is a significant convenience for customers who prefer not to handle installation themselves.
• Online Retailers: Often provide DIY installation instructions and videos. While many now offer professional installation services, these are typically through third-party networks and might incur additional costs separate from the blind purchase.

In summary: Alphablinds.ie is akin to a bespoke tailor for windows—highly personalized, locally focused, and reliant on direct interaction. Online retailers are more like a large, efficient department store—offering vast choices, instant information, and convenience, with a greater emphasis on self-service. Your preference depends entirely on whether you prioritize a hands-on, personalized local service or the speed, convenience, and extensive selection of a large online platform.

Why a Limited Online Presence Can Be Risky for Consumers

While Alphablinds.ie provides essential contact details, its limited online presence, particularly the absence of key elements found on more robust websites, can introduce several risks for potential customers.

Lack of Transparency and Trust Signals

• No Visible Customer Reviews/Testimonials: Without a dedicated section for customer feedback, it’s difficult for new clients to assess the company’s reputation, quality of work, or customer satisfaction. While “Voted Best” is a strong claim, the absence of individual stories or star ratings makes it hard to verify. This can lead to uncertainty for consumers.
• Missing Legal Pages: The absence of a readily accessible Privacy Policy and Terms of Service is a significant red flag. A privacy policy outlines how personal data is collected, stored, and used, which is crucial for GDPR compliance if operating in the EU/Ireland and building user trust. Terms of service define the agreement between the business and the customer, protecting both parties. Their absence can imply a lack of professionalism or an unwillingness to commit to clear operational guidelines.
• Limited “About Us” Information: While not explicitly mentioned in the homepage text, a detailed “About Us” section often provides insights into the company’s history, values, and team, humanizing the business and building rapport. Its absence can make a company seem less established or trustworthy.

Challenges in Information Gathering and Decision Making

• No Product Details or Visuals: The website lists product types but offers no images, detailed specifications, material options, or color palettes. This forces customers to rely solely on an in-home consultation to see and choose products, making preliminary research and comparison difficult. It’s like going to a car dealership without knowing what models they sell or what they look like.
• Absence of FAQs: A robust FAQ section can answer common questions about products, services, processes, warranties, and after-sales support. Without it, customers must contact the business directly for every query, potentially delaying decision-making and increasing their effort.
• No Online Quoting/Estimates: The requirement for an in-home visit for a quote means customers cannot quickly get a sense of potential costs, making it harder to budget or compare prices with competitors who offer online estimation tools. This increases the commitment required from the customer even at the initial inquiry stage.

Limited Accessibility and Engagement

• Static Website: The website appears largely static, without dynamic content, blogs, or news updates. This can make the business seem less active or engaged with its market, which might lead consumers to question its vitality.

In essence, a limited online presence, while potentially functional for a purely local and word-of-mouth business, falls short of modern consumer expectations for transparency, accessibility, and comprehensive information.

For a consumer, this can translate into more effort, less informed decisions, and a higher perceived risk before committing to a service.

FAQ

What is Alphablinds.ie?

Alphablinds.ie is a business based in County Cork, Ireland, specializing in the supply and fitting of made-to-measure window coverings such as shutters, blackout blinds, Roman blinds, roller blinds, Venetian blinds, vertical blinds, and Perfect Fit blinds for homes and offices.

Does Alphablinds.ie offer online ordering?

No, based on the website’s homepage, Alphablinds.ie does not offer online ordering. Gyreteams.com Review

They operate on a model that requires an in-home appointment for measurement and a personalized quotation.

How do I get a quote from Alphablinds.ie?

You can get a quote by contacting Alphablinds.ie via phone +353 21 602 3989 or +353 83 380 0052 or email [email protected] to arrange a complimentary in-home appointment.

Is the in-home appointment free?

Yes, Alphablinds.ie explicitly states that the in-home appointment to discuss your needs, measure your windows, and provide a quote is “all with no cost and no obligation on your part.”

What types of blinds does Alphablinds.ie offer?

Alphablinds.ie offers a variety of window coverings, including Shutters, Blackout Blinds, Roman Blinds, Roller Blinds, Venetian Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Motorised Blinds, and Perfect Fit Blinds.

Where is Alphablinds.ie located?

While a full address isn’t provided, the website mentions “Midleton Tel,” suggesting a base of operations or primary service area around Midleton, County Cork, Ireland. They serve customers “throughout County Cork.”

What are Alphablinds.ie’s business hours?

Alphablinds.ie’s business hours are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Does Alphablinds.ie have customer reviews on its website?

No, the homepage of Alphablinds.ie does not display any visible customer reviews, testimonials, or ratings.

Are there any terms and conditions or a privacy policy on the Alphablinds.ie website?

Based on the provided homepage text, there are no readily apparent links to a Privacy Policy or Terms of Service on Alphablinds.ie.

Does Alphablinds.ie have a social media presence?

The homepage text does not provide any links to social media profiles for Alphablinds.ie.

How does Alphablinds.ie differ from large online blind retailers?

Alphablinds.ie focuses on a local, personalized service model with in-home consultations, whereas large online retailers typically offer extensive online catalogs, instant pricing, and often require customers to take their own measurements. Arrowdelivery.com Review

Is Alphablinds.ie suitable for DIY blind installation?

Given their focus on “made-to-measure” solutions and in-home appointments, Alphablinds.ie’s service model seems geared towards professional fitting rather than DIY installation.

Can I see product images or samples on the Alphablinds.ie website?

No, the homepage lists product types but does not feature an online gallery of product images, detailed specifications, or material samples.

These would likely be shown during the in-home consultation.

What is the advantage of an in-home appointment for blinds?

An in-home appointment ensures precise measurements, allows for personalized advice based on your home’s specific needs, and enables you to see material samples and discuss options directly with a representative.

What does “Voted Best Window Blinds Supplier – Munster” mean?

This claim indicates that Alphablinds.ie has received recognition or an award as the top window blinds supplier within the Munster region of Ireland, suggesting strong local reputation.

Can I get an estimated price for blinds before an appointment?

No, based on the website information, an estimated price or general price range is not available online.

A personalized quote requires an in-home measurement.

Does Alphablinds.ie offer motorized blinds?

Yes, the website specifically lists “Motorised Blinds” as one of their offerings.

What is a “Perfect Fit Blind”?

Perfect Fit Blinds are designed to integrate seamlessly into uPVC windows and doors without the need for drilling or screwing, offering a clean, sleek look. Alphablinds.ie lists these among their products.

Is Alphablinds.ie suitable for commercial or office spaces?

Yes, the website states they provide solutions for “your home or office,” indicating they serve both residential and commercial clients. Softcaliber.com Review

How quickly can I expect a quote after contacting Alphablinds.ie?

The website doesn’t specify a timeframe, but arranging an in-home appointment would be the first step, and the quote is provided during or shortly after that visit.