It’s becoming a common refrain in Muskoka: a large company based out of town sends a crew to do several jobs in a short period of time to maximize profits.
But if one of those jobs turns out poorly, the property owner is left trying to figure out how to fix it because there are no local representatives able to help.
Jonathan and Simone Barnard of Dreamview Muskoka often get called to come in and fix the issues caused by other, larger businesses or franchises.
“The sun would rise, and unseemly streaks would show, as well as other areas that weren’t done,” Jonathan says. “When you work with us, you’re dealing with the owners of the company directly and we’re on site ensuring the quality of the clean. We take as much, if not more, care of your property as we do our own. That’s a standard of service we provide every single time. And you know we’re nearby when you need us.”
Dreamview Muskoka works to ensure their schedule lines up with their clients’ timelines, such as opening the cottage in the spring, scheduling touch-ups of glass railings and windows ahead of important events such as birthday parties or anniversaries, and fall cleaning that includes clearing eavestroughs ahead of winter.
“We’re close enough that we can set up consistent visits throughout the year,” says Simone. “We know it’s important to have your property looking its best when guests arrive, and we can help make that happen… at least from the window cleaning point of view.”
One of the many pleasant surprises for their clients is that Jonathan and Simone only invoice clients for the hours they spend working. Should a job be quoted at 12 hours, and only take 10, then the clients are only charged for the 10 hours. It’s not something everyone would do, but the couple feels it’s the best way to do business.
“We feel billing fairly and honestly is an important part of building strong relationships with our clients,” says Simone. “Usually, we’re spot on with our quote, but we surprised a couple of clients last year when their invoice was less than the original estimate.”
It’s another reason why going with honest, local businesses provides the best results – for your property and your pocketbook.
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI | PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
