Disappointed with the Sales Tactics – Felt Unethical
A representative from 1st Home Improvements visited us after their initial contact via door knocking. I was looking to replace two bay windows (5 panels each). Before the visit, their head office called to confirm the appointment. During that call, I explained that a close family member is terminally ill, and as such, I didn’t want a full sales pitch, just a straightforward quote based on my needs. They assured me they understood.
The salesperson who came was polite and showed us a small demonstration of the product, which looked to be of good quality, no complaints there.
However, I was extremely disappointed with the pricing and negotiation tactics. I was initially quoted just over £14,000, including scaffolding. I said this was far too expensive. Then, I was asked if I’d be willing to:
1.Have a company sign in my garden
2.Allow photos to be taken of the installation
3.Permit use of these photos on social media and other marketing
4.Be available for installation within a specific timeframe
I agreed to all of this and suddenly the price dropped to around £9,000. I was told this was because the salesman had access to “funding” and my agreement helped their marketing.
To me, this felt completely unethical. If the job could genuinely be done for £9,000, why was I quoted £14,000 to begin with? It felt like I was being misled and potentially taken advantage of, especially considering my vulnerable situation, which I had clearly explained from the start.
This kind of sales approach lacks transparency and integrity. I would have gladly supported their marketing if I had been told upfront about the true cost. But the way it was presented made me feel like I was being manipulated into accepting an inflated price first.
The product may be good, but the experience left me with serious doubts about the company’s ethics and trustworthiness.
