Who invented the free quote?

Question

My boyfriend and I run a tradesman business and instead of going out earning money, we are constantly wasting time writing quotes for people who usually don't give us the job anyway. It is so frustrating and if you under quote yourself by accident, you lose money on the job!!

Answer 1

Harry's horseshoes in east Texas back in 1762 was the first business to offer a free quote. He beat out Sarah's home sewing by three day's.

Answer 2

Sadly, being a business man myself, I can only tell you that this is how things work.  

If people only care about the price, then nothing else will matter. But some people want more than the lowest price, they want quality work or a "guarantee" of satisfaction.  My suggestion would be to include testimonials with the quote.