MyFreeEstimates.com Complaint - Beware - Contractor Referral Service

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-18:

Thanks for the information about my free estimates, I'll spread the word!

Good Luck,
Dave

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-18:

Also, according to all there customer service representatives they say they're the second largest contractor referral service below servicemagic.com. which I find very hard to believe!

Posted by Aerocave on 2008-01-18:

Good information...I am always suspect of anything that has the word "free" in it--regardless of why.

Posted by tnchuck100 on 2008-01-18:

Thanking yourself for the information? Strange.

I agree with Aerocave, "free" should always be treated with skepticism.

"FREE" as in 'free access to your money'.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-18:

Thanks for your comment, very much appreciated! The only thing I liked about myfreestimates.com was there website. The customer support people are a nightmare!

Posted by Aerocave on 2008-01-18:

Isn't that the truch tnchuck...

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Hello not so mystery person,

This is Eric Carstens of MyFreeEstimates.com. I would like to respond to this. Taking action yourself can put you in a position of legally being held liable for any damages caused by slanderous remarks. And most of what you posted falls in either category. First, I already know you have my number, but for anyone who wants both sides, call me at 1-888-788-9650. Julie will help you get in touch with me. So I'll go right down the line here. First there is no guarantee on how many leads you will get. I know that in your area we have that volume of leads, but since we are reputable company, we have a MAX times sold, and since you were on the "cherry pick" or "pick and Choose" package, most leads are sold out before you see them. ill explain more in the "fourth" response. second.. do you work for the company you added a link to, it seems kinds fishy, doesn’t anyone else think that? You ALSO were grandfathered in to the, $45 NOT $40 a lead price, added credits and had it all explained to you. Obviously you knew about it. Shows how much he reads what he signs, or listens to who he’s giving a credit card to. Third, ties into the comment above. Forth, when you called in asking for 'more' leads, we informed you, not only could you see the high volume that we have in the area, but we would give you a discount, $45 to $29 a lead. More leads for half the price, I cannot understand why we are 'bad guys' for that, to me and anyone who reads this, it will be obvious, we were trying to keep a customer, and make them successful. Unfortunate, the old saying lead a horse to water, comes to mind. Fifth, yes he did call me, funny he didn’t bring up the text issue or the email issue. On top of that he was looking for the whole amount refunded to him, after, he fraudulently charged back with his credit card, and lost by-the-way. Even his own credit card company doesn't believe his lies. I also sent the refund check as promised, and of course, it has cleared. it seems here if this gentleman spent more time trying to get new clients, and less time blogging, he might have some success. Also kind of ironic that the first time he tried to reach me, he did, we spoke, I fofulled my obligation, then he lost my number and started to blog? even the reader can see that I was courteous to you, and WHY wouldn’t you call ME back! i'll tell you why, he is a liar. the eighth statement is 100% true, good job "not-so-mystery-person". Ninth, funny I have the cleared check from his refund. Enough said. Finally, sir this is MY business. I do my best along with all of MyFreeEstimates.com s employees. We are a loyal company and have tens of thousands of contractors who have no time to blog, because they are closing deals. I will also pursue all legal action for the liable and slanderous remarks. So instead of hiding behind your computer, call me, anytime, I have the best leads in the business. I would like to add a few last comments. the times are changing, traditional ways of marketing are not as successful as some of the new ways, like internet leads. I could go on and on about ROI and sales stratagies. I will not bore you with that. It is unfortunate that this contractor did not have enough people standing in thier driveways with check book open. I was a contractor looking for better leads, I found a GREAT way, with unbelievable ROI. So good and soo many leads I started selling them to other sub_contractors, and a company was born. Not untill I was no longer able to look a man in the face, did I start having to defend myself to anybody with a computer and spell checker for any reason. I would like to end it all like this. Have ANY of you had 1 or 2 'crazy' customers, I KNOW you have. Mabye more. Of course those FEW make the most moise and waste the most time. Like the rest of you true business owners over 99% of ALL my customers are happy closing deals. This is just one of those rare few. What a pain, you know what I mean. Good luck to ALL in 08, and again PLEASE call ME if you want to discuss this or ANYTHING at all.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

I also think tnchuck hit it on the head..... Thanking yourself, competitors links, can you not see the shadiness here?

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Has this thread been moderated? It looks kind of chopped up. EricatMFE, I for one think your full of it. You wasted a lot of page space and said zip. Here is a simple solution, shut the he11 up and give infrascan the leads that were promised, if you can't refund the money, SIMPLE!

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Read again superbowl, he got all his leads, and the refund.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Great news, then why does he still want his money back?

Chuck, "Thanking yourself for the information? Strange". That is why I think this thread has been moderated?

Once the OP comes back and says he was refunded or got his leads I guess you will be believed. Did a quick look-up on MyFreeEstimates.com, seems MyFreeEstimates.com spends a lot of time doing damage control.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Oh, you did a look-up, WOW! with no proof, imagine that. To me and anyone who reads this, it seems YOU are doing damage control for your partner, or friend. Again, actually read my post. Thanks! Like I said Superbowl, and so did the mystery man. I answered first time he called, we agreed and moved on. then he loses my phone number? No actually he gets himself in legal trouble.It is obvious he cannot sell leads, rather he is a blooger for my competition and so are you. well, it just won't work. Again, taking action yourself can put you in a position of legally being held liable for any damages caused by slanderous remarks.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Oh' I'm so worried. Give him his money back. Case closed.

I'm done with you.

Posted by tnchuck100 on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE, I will assure you there is no connection between the poster and superbowl.

Also, your comments are difficult to read. Do you know how to incorporate paragraphs in your communications? If you are a professional we should expect better from you.

Posted by cooter4life on 2008-01-19:

i have to disagree with your statement, i run a small company in the midwest doing replacment windows and roofing, i looked into starting my own lead source through the internet. the cost to run somethiing like this was far beyond on the return, at least 40k salary for a I.T. director to maintain the site. also customer service specialist and so on you get the point. I found that running the program with numerous lead generation sites that recieved the best return on my investment with myfreeestimates.com for every 200 dollars spent my R.O.I. was almost 1000 percent. yes thats not a typo. I pay 22 dollars per lead and do on average 5-6 estimates per 10 leads closing 50% on those estimates. Last year alone I spent over 25K with myfreeestimates.com and will continue to spend even more with those numbers. I've spoke with Eric Carstens (ceo) and have only had one issue with the customer service department and it was resolved IMMEDIATLY. therefore I conclude this comment with lead generation for our bussiness has made me a succesfull bussiness owner with the lack of education, just proves that anyone can do it.

Thank You
Tom Fox
Fox Construction

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

tnchcuk, I am doing this from my phone, as I am trying to work as well. I add line breaks, It isn't going through. Mabye this time it will. Thanks for the notification on superbowl, it just seems VERY fishy. I do ask this question.... if we are so unreasonable, and all the other things he says, why am I here now? Why do I answer every call to my office, as HE stated? I ask you all to put the obvious together, if ANY of you are business owners you would understand this type of situation. thanks for your time.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Thanks Tom!!! One for the good guys!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Cooter4life, the issue is someone paid for leads and did not get what they paid for then were jerked around about it. Glad to hear it all works for you! Lead generation is a tricky business and there are a lot of shady companies in the business to watch out for. Ever hear of HouseValues.com? They seem to have ripped off just about every realtor they ever took money from, it's tough to get good leads for sure.

That being said we all find it very odd that Cooter4life is a brand new NIC created today that has posted one reply, to this post. HMMMMMMMMM???

Now that seems SHADY that EricatMFE would just happen to wonder by right after your post and say thanks. HMMMMMMMMM???

EricatMFE, just and FYI, Admin has ways to track users making up fake NIC's, seems very shady for sure???

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Superbowl, you as well can call anytime. I am ALWAYS available. I also own theLocalLenders.com we will treat you right there too. No BS!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Why did you go with the, "SECOND largest contractor referral service"...instead of the largest?

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Because it's the truth.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Seems this thread became a "Free Advertising" thread...next thing you know, they will be posting pictures of them kissing babies!

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

And also Superbowl, please have them look into that 'other' post. It was NOT me! Let the rest of us know, WITH PROOF, who the real Cooter4life is, and thanks again for proving my point, once you get your proof that Cooter4life is not me. Thanks!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

UMMMMMMMMMM???? Nope, don't buy it EricatMFE, oooop's sorry I mean Cooter4life.

Now, give the man his money back and stop making up NIC's as you go on this site, thank you.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Debotbasher, funny most of my salespeople are ex-collectors, free advertising for who?

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Well said DB, by the way EricatMFE a number of us have seen the "make up a NIC as you go to help your case" program before so it won't fly around here. Any NIC that posts one reply to help the case of the accused and is new to the site at the same day and time is very, very suspect. In other words you have been caught and busted.

Now, give the man his money back and behave around here.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Of course Superbowl comments with no proof, seems typical for you. Unsubstansiated statements seem to be what your good at. So how about this, tell us more on how you 'feel' about things, and the rest of us will go by facts. Again, taking action yourself can put you in a position of legally being held liable for any damages caused by slanderous remarks.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

I've know collector who were ex-salespeople...so what's your point?

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

cooter4life - That's great you're having success with myfreeestimates.com but not everyone is as fortunate as you! Why would myfreestimates.com bill me an additional $350.00 when there's still plenty of money in my account? Why would myfreeestimates.com start billing me $40.00 instead of the agreed 35.00? Why would John Carsten (CEO) review my records and say I was right and then turn around and put the $590.00 into collection? Why do there customer support representatives use the f---k word? You have to remember, just because you're happy with myfreeestimates.com doesn't mean everyone else is! Good Luck!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Superbowl...I think I see alot of hat switching here...watch, the next one will be an attorney's hat advertising for slanderous lawsuits.

Posted by Principissa on 2008-01-19:

How is anything he said slanderous? Me thinks someone is doing a little talking out his rear. He is here sticking up for a customer who feels ripped off, and you are here to pick childish lunchroom fights with respected members. Grow up.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Infrascan, it's OK, we all know cooter4life is a fake NIC EricatMFE just made up to help his case. If he runs his business like he posts around here we can see why your upset with him.

We do hope you get all your money back!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Mr. Carstens is just lookin' for more business.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

DB, after his disaster here today I doubt he will find much around these parts, LOL!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Call Your Broker
Replacement contractors say Internet lead providers need to do a better job qualifying what they sell.

Source: REPLACEMENT CONTRACTOR Magazine
Publication date: July 1, 2007

By Jim Cory

Jonathan Wells, marketing manager for Majors Home Improvement, in Milton, Fla., thought he'd struck gold earlier this year after inking a $50,000 patio cover deal from a lead produced by one of the Internet lead providers the company uses. That one Internet lead provider generated $125,000 worth of business, in January alone.

But during the following months, the service — which Wells declined to identify — yielded little or nothing that was sold. By late spring, Majors Home Improvement decided to terminate the relationship.

Internet lead brokers have been supplying home improvement companies with business for at least eight years. But many company owners who use one or more brokers say they get too many bogus leads: inquiries that are not for their product, are in the wrong market, or are pranks. “They machine gun the leads at you, and a lot of them are throw-aways,” Wells says.

VETTING PROCEDURES
John Herman, owner of Thermal Sash Window and Door Systems, at one time considered Internet lead brokers “a major lead source” for his Chester Springs, Pa., company. In mid-March of last year, he phoned MyFreeEstimates.com, in Egan, Minn., to complain about lead quality. The company's rep convinced him to sign on for a monthly program “that guaranteed me lots of leads,” Herman says.

The following month, Herman says, “they pumped me about 15 leads, most of which were pretty bad.” Since some of the leads were not even for windows, Herman grew suspicious and, to test the company's vetting procedure, filled out an online application for “John Fullofit,” using his office address and ZIP code. To his dismay, the $25 lead e-mailed to him included a list of the “Top 10 things to do when receiving bids from contractors.” Among other things, the list advised homeowners to obtain four estimates and to “get a new bid from every contractor every time you get a new estimate.” Herman was livid.

LEVERAGE LOW COSTS?
Eric Carstens, who founded MyFreeEstimates .com two years ago, says that the sheer volume of contacts his company receives and sells to home improvement operators precludes the ability to check each and every lead.

Though the number of appointments set on leads from lead brokerage companies like his may not be as high as leads from other sources, Carstens says the low cost of Internet leads — from $25 to $65; more if they're exclusive — makes them advantageous for many contractors, who can balance such leads against more expensive lead sources. But, he says, those with a phone room to set appointments, and a strong salesforce, invariably make the best use of Internet leads.

In fact, many home improvement companies use Internet lead brokers to augment other lead sources. Legacy Remodeling, in Pittsburgh, has used lead brokers “on and off” for the last six or seven years, says owner Ken Moeslein, who notes that to many contractors, such companies are viewed as possibly providing “the magic bullet” of abundant, low-cost leads.

Still, many companies are reluctant to dispense with any potential lead source, however hit-or-miss it might be. The quality of leads, and service, provided by brokers varies widely from one to the next. And no one's arguing with the cost. “At one point they were really good leads,” says Kris Parsons, marketing coordinator for Joe Percario General Contractor, in Roselle, N.J. “It's not a bad lead source,” she says. “It just needs to be fine-tuned a bit.”

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Wow, DB I'm impressed, I did not even catch this one when checking them out, good job indeed.

Infrascan, odd you were charged $35 then $40 while the guy above paid $25? HMMMMM? Let's make a deal!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Here is his profile...highest education was high school and he started his business from his kitchen table!
Yup...I'd put all of my trust in his hands!

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/4/B45/41B

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Thanks DB! "Jonathan Wells, marketing manager for Majors Home Improvement, in Milton, Fla., thought he'd struck gold earlier this year after inking a $50,000 patio cover deal from a lead produced by one of the Internet lead providers the company uses. That one Internet lead provider generated $125,000 worth of business, in January alone." one of my favorite parts. $125k in business in one month!?!?! Wow!

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

its a copy of the artical YOU posted, not my words, DB.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Please also read the above http://www.linkedin.com/pub/4/B45/41B and see what 'accreditdations' I have.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Whether you are seeing your glass half full or half empty...In my honest opinion (which I CAN'T be sued for having) it's still a scam.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

With no proof, of course, and the only REAL proof you have entered, goes in my favor, let me repost your post..... "Thanks DB! "Jonathan Wells, marketing manager for Majors Home Improvement, in Milton, Fla., thought he'd struck gold earlier this year after inking a $50,000 patio cover deal from a lead produced by one of the Internet lead providers the company uses. That one Internet lead provider generated $125,000 worth of business, in January alone." So the only PROOF of anything you have is TWO different contractors saying the make ALOT of money from MyFreeeEstimates. Thanks AGAIN!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

You seem to have missed this part:

VETTING PROCEDURES
John Herman, owner of Thermal Sash Window and Door Systems, at one time considered Internet lead brokers “a major lead source” for his Chester Springs, Pa., company. In mid-March of last year, he phoned MyFreeEstimates.com, in Egan, Minn., to complain about lead quality. The company's rep convinced him to sign on for a monthly program “that guaranteed me lots of leads,” Herman says.

The following month, Herman says, “they pumped me about 15 leads, most of which were pretty bad.” Since some of the leads were not even for windows, Herman grew suspicious and, to test the company's vetting procedure, filled out an online application for “John Fullofit,” using his office address and ZIP code. To his dismay, the $25 lead e-mailed to him included a list of the “Top 10 things to do when receiving bids from contractors.” Among other things, the list advised homeowners to obtain four estimates and to “get a new bid from every contractor every time you get a new estimate.” Herman was livid.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Eric...my dear...you can't even get your own facts straight and IN YOUR OWN WORDS....
First you stated you started your company with only $500 credit ... THEN ... your other link states you started your company with $300 credit...you see, you need to be consistant with your story (I won't call them facts because obviously we don't know the REAL facts, but that's ok since you don't seem to know them yourself).

"You see I started this company from my kitchen table less than 3 years ago, I had a $500 limit credit card and the air in my lungs"... as posted on: http://ericcarstens.blogspot.com/

"I personally started MyFreeEstimates.com from my kitchen as I am sure that is where you started your company. (That is where the pictures come in, thanks to my wife)
I had a $300.00 limit Credit Card and a phone. I was 30 years old".....as posted on:

http://sfvblog.com/2007/03/20/

............thanks for the fun.....but I've got better things to right now............

Posted by Principissa on 2008-01-19:

Don't mess with the Basher. She's got 5 stars for a reason.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

DB, I'm afraid to say EricatMFE is grasping now that he has been caught making up NIC's to win his case and does not want to refund the money. Case closed in my book, the customer (infrascan) is right and deserves his money back, period, end of story. MyFreeEstimates.com has been caught taking someones money then came on M3C's and made up stories and NIC's to defend themselves, customer is right.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

So, it looks to me as if you spent $200 and the air in your lungs for a phone....LOL!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

It's been fun...I like these kind! But...gotta go now...enjoy y'alls day!

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

I guess I have.

John made thousands with us. I also do not see where he didn't SELL any of them. He sells our leads like crazy. That IS the point, right from your quote above HERE--> "they pumped me about 15 leads, most of which were pretty bad"

Here is what YOU ALL are lacking.... FACTS

HERE ARE SOME FACTS

The part I like most is "MOST OF" he didn't also include, which we have record of, of the $150,000 sunroom lead he closed that month or the $30,000 window job. You know what he paid for those two measly jobs? The "few", that were good, that grossed him $180k. You know what he paid? He was on a monthly unlimited lead program, we predicted 15 leads for 03-07 in his area, HE RECIEVED 18! HE PAID $375 for that month.

$180,000 gross profit on $375 ivestment. And he was upset because the other 16 leads didn't close!

Same as Major Home Improvement above. That time they actually admit it. $150k in one MONTH! WOW!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Ok....well, you just keep searching...I'll be back later, hon.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE - Where’s the slander, I only speak the truth and the public should know exactly how I’m being treated!! I perfectly understand, it’s impossible to guarantee how many leads a company will receive within a period of time. Why did my original sales representative guarantee me atleast 17 leads per month then, or am I lying again??

You say my credit card company didn’t believe me, why was I refunded $590.00 with no problem? What is the amount of your cleared check you have? If it’s $590.00, you’re a damn liar because my credit card accepted my dispute. If there’s a way for me to upload an attachment from this site I’ll gladly show proof for all those to see!! Why don’t you do the same and upload your proof of your canceled check…lol!!!

I’ve called your office numerous times and was promised you’d call me back, this time you pick up the phone!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE = zero, nada, zilch

infrascan = wins

EricatMFE, now stop screwing around with your BS posts and just give the man his money back. No one here believes anything you have to say. Your credibility is in the toilet after you made up the fake NIC cooter4life. Were not the dullards around here dishing out the BS. Now give the man his money back.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Mystery guy, No-one gaurenteed you 17 leads a month.

you can goto our site on the contractor page anytime and see the estimated lead volume for the month. The problem again was you were not in the exact program and 4 other contractors in your zip codes were. That is why you did not see any leads, they were already purchased.

As a business owner, don't you think I would want to sell you as many leads as possible? We only sell our leads 4 times MAX. the 'pick & choose' package contractors miss out on thousands of leads a year because of this.

THEN as you stated, we tried to get you on the exact program, so you could recieve the leads real time. You have a text message issue, and all hell broke loose. PERIOD.

The FACT IS you still want our leads, they are good and you know it. You even stated you may come back.

We agree and agree on a few facts.

I think a text message isn't worht all this, especially when you want our leads, and I sir, want to sell them to you.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

go away superbowl I am not cooter4life, idiot.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Oh' great now he has resorted to name calling, wonderful! That is the sign of a true solid upstanding businessman, LOL. We can see the OP was telling even more truth about your sleazy little enterprise when he said "Why do there customer support representatives use the f---k word?".

You just verified that one for us too, thank you.

Please keep on going this is all permanent record for the whole World to read about you. Keep digging your hole deeper. Or maybe do the honest thing and GIVE THE MAN HIS MONEY BACK!

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

That is right, everyone here knows who I am.

I stand behind what I say.

UNLIKE YOU!

You're some 13 year old on your Mom's computer for all we know.

And now, you're blocked.

I am sure infrascan feels he can stand up for himself.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE / cooter4life LMAO, what a tool, you just blew it big time!!! Your future prospects are going to love reading this thread. I think maybe I will help make sure they do so they can avoid getting taken like others have.

Now refund the Man's money.

Posted by Nohandle on 2008-01-19:

Why would a brand new member want to block a three star member? Interesting.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Nohandle, start at the top, this has been going on all morning. This EricatMFE / cooter4life guy is a riot.

Posted by Leela on 2008-01-19:

Holy Moley! Who gave this a 'helpful' vote? Unless, of course, they were thinking of Superbowl & DB as being helpful.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE - Let's try to keep everything online for everyone to see, please don't send me a private message again for me to call you! I've called your office to many times in the past with no call-backs, kindly call me and we'll talk.

Also, are you the second largest referral

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Glad we had a slow morning so I could enjoy this one. The part I liked was "I see you’re not on our premier program which is an additional fee of $240.00". The OP should have seen the BS coming his way right after hearing that. Which of course was right after they got his original payments.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE - Is there a way to upload proof on this site for me to show everyone that Eric is lying about my credit card company not disputing the charge? If so, I'll gladly do so today!!!

Also, why don't you do the same with your canceled check, prove once in for all, I'm a liar!!!

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

I will call on Monday morning, I would love to have you start receiving leads ASAP! I could do it today, email me your company id at eric at myfreeestimates. com. I will set you up to recieve therest of the weekend FREE. I could get the leads rolling now, you could sell a couple jobs, and on Monday resign on our exact program, where you recieve the leads first. Not the preview, like pick and choose package you preferred before, and fortunately the lead cost is anywhere from $22.00 up to $29.00 in stead of the P&C price of $45 a lead.



Thanks Again!

Eric

Posted by UrFriendlyPirate on 2008-01-19:

I'm not sure I understand all the commotion here. Civility here please. Wait, I'm sure superbowel is going to attack me and any other member that disagrees with his "advice."

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

THANK GOD! PirateWithParrot!!! My other/other NIC.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Well it seems Pirate did read the thread and changed his post, thank you.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE - Why do you want me to join so bad? If I had someone stirring up trouble for me, I wouldn't have anything to do with that person. I just want the collection dropped and refunded the $145.00 as promised. As I originally said before, give me a couple months and maybe I'll feel differently, doubtful though.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Pirate, next time read the thread, carry on.

Posted by Nohandle on 2008-01-19:

Good afternoon Pirate. Gee Whiz, you must be the second helpful vote on this fiasco. Who was the first? I do notice you have a brand new trusted member on your short list and have also changed your original reply. Wonders will never cease.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Infrascan, NOW back to the issue at hand. You can post what you want on your blog for all to see. If you need help IM any member on this thread that has tried to support you in getting your money back. Just ignore the ones that don't read before they speak.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

superbowl - Thank You! Also, I never had the intention to hurt anyone, I just want what's right.
You were a tremendous help, I great appreciate it!!
By the way, who do you want to win in the super bowl?

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

I would like to see San Diego / Green Bay. My guess was Dallas / New England last July but that sort of went out the window last week. My guess? New England / Green Bay with New England winning the prize this year.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

I haven't been following footbal much this year but I agree, San Diego or Green Bay would be nice. Again, thanks for all your help!!!! Have a wonderful day!

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-19:

After reading this thread I believe Infrascan is 100% in the right! Why else would he go through so much trouble! It's not because he's a trouble maker, it's because he's fighting back for what's rightfully his! GREAT JOB INFRASCAN!!!!!

Posted by UrFriendlyPirate on 2008-01-19:

Demonstrating that you don't know much about football again super? Dallas? LMFAO! Guess you don't remember how romo laid an egg a year ago? Gimme a break. It's gonna be GB in an upset stunner.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

infrascan, you too, hope this tool EricatMFE does the right thing and gives you your money back now. I have an interesting post on my blog about EricatMFE's new best friend, enjoy! Later.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

PirateWithParrot - I originally wanted the Giants to go all the way, since I'm from NY. Take care!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

HONEY! I'M HOOOOME!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

infrascan (01/19/2008)
EricatMFE - Why do you want me to join so bad? If I had someone stirring up trouble for me, I wouldn't have anything to do with that person. I just want the collection dropped and refunded the $145.00 as promised. As I originally said before, give me a couple months and maybe I'll feel differently, doubtful though.

..........I wondered the same thing...guess he will claim to want to make a "happy customer" out of you...but I wonder if a company is doing so great, what difference would one person who was not happy with their service...or lack of...would make...oh wait I know...he's STILL trying to get him to PURCHASE services from him...

.........Eric...did you ever hear, "Once bitten, twice shy"...

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

I for one voted this review as helpful. The vote was because the poster exposed this company, which will make others think twice before using them...my vote had nothing to do with anything Eric said and it is NOT in support of Eric or his company.

Posted by UrFriendlyPirate on 2008-01-19:

Me too DB, I feel the same way.

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-19:

This is the National Sales Manager with myfreeestimates.com I came into this business over a year ago when things were still "in the works" as far as getting things rolling with the company. Whether you are in the home improvement business, mortgages, or any business, you need customers.

Internet lead generation is becoming more and more popular and is providing companies an alternative to expensive conventional advertising.

Now we all know that a lead is a lead is a lead, whether it comes from the yellowbook, direct mailing, home shows, referrals, or even walk-ins. You are going to run into the same garbage with internet leads as you would with any other source. Now regardless if it's myfreeestimates or any of our competitors, we never have nor will we ever gaurantee "jobs", remember they are only leads to a potential customer, which was entered by the homeowner by the way on their own accord without solicitation or giveaways.

If one of my customer service staff or sales staff handles a call innapropriately, there are conciquences for their actions. I also encourage any contractor to call me as well with any issue(s) that they are having trouble resolving.

As I tell any contractor who is looking at our service, at least try us out, if you are having sucess, continue to use us forever, if not, stop using us. You are under no obligation to stay with us for any length of time.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

You're stepping on Eric's toes...and He's the OWNER! He is begging this guy to purchase more service from him...you turn around and say if you're not happy, stop using us. I believe the "If you're not happy with us, then leave" attitude is exactly the same attitude you just said have conciquences if used by the staff. LOL...

This thread alone was worth getting up in the morning for!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

You guys may as well stop trying to dig yourself out of this one. The hole you dug for yourself is just too deep. Quit before you end up in China!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

DB, very well said!

Ckmsn, glad to have you aboard. That makes two of you from MyFreeEstimates.com plus one fake NIC made up by EricatMFE. Lot's of good damage control today.

All the OP wants to know is when he will get his money refunded to him? Forget all the hoopla, never sent checks, charge backs etc. When are you guys going to do the right thing and refund his money?

All infrascan wants is the money back you guys took from him. Why all the fluff? Just refund the money.


Pirate is such a dang liar, his first post bashed the OP which a large number of people saw. Then he went back and edited his comment before the edit feature went away. Then he took the side of EricatMFE and put him on his trust list. Now the liar is coming back and posting he agree's with DB? LMFAO!! What a complete liar! Plus we see he has been moderated to the max! Just about every comment he made has been yanked, what does that tell you??

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-19:

I'm not stepping on anyones toes. You as a contractor would want the same opportunity to do business with a homeowner just as we do with you. If there is an issue resolve it...I agree with that. With tens of thousands of contractors in our system, not all will be sucessful or pleased. Example, I was personally handling an account that purchased 13 leads from us and actually got into 10 homes and gave estimates...that's an exceptional close rate. He told me that he did not close one of those bids and stated that we had a product issue. I asked him what the issue was and he replied that he didn't close any deals. That sounds like a sales issue I told him, after which he began to argue with me. I've asked many contractors about the same situation and they agreed it was a sales issue.

There will be many more contractors who do not like our service, that's fine, find one that works for you. But at least make an educated decion for yourselves about us by checking us out before you form an opinion. All that's here is a bunch of he said she said. Thank you.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Let's stick with the issue THIS customer has...you're other customer "success stories" mean nothing, I can tell alot of stories too...whether they are true or not, who would know? Now...back to THIS customer...you are now saying..."If there is an issue resolve it"...Ok....there is an issue here, so put your money where your mouth is and resolve it! Give him his money back...Oh, but wait, Resolve an issue? But you also said, if someone isn't happy, they should just stop using you? Hmmmm....so, what's the answer? He should just go away? Or you should reslove the issue? Oh...I get it...him going away would resolve YOUR issue...Oh ok, I get it now...DUH!

Posted by tnchuck100 on 2008-01-19:

OK, it's time to let this thread end.

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-19:

I'm not saying that this guy going away would resolve the issue, and I'm not sure of the details on this particular issue. I'd be more than happy to look into it on monday. The guy had a bad experience with us which is unfortunate. As I said, it works for some and doesn't for others. Formulate an educated decision by checking out our service. If you spent 3k on your yellow page advertising and you were flooded with calls for over the phone quotes and not appointments or sales, would you call the yellow pages and demand a refund? Probably not.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Right on Chuck, refund the poor guys money and move on!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Ckmsn, look into it on monday? Why? He has been after you guys for weeks? He said many times pick up the phone and call him. He is waiting for you call.

Then this is truly over?

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-19:

Who are you infra? Do you know your company ID by chance?

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Ckmsn, odd Eric (EricatMFE) knows who he is?

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-19:

I deal with hundreds of contractors on a daily basis, I don't get all the issues, but I try and help as much as I can.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

That's all anyone is asking is for you guys to call the poor guy and give him his money back.

Posted by tnchuck100 on 2008-01-19:

If EricatMFE was really sincere about correcting this situation he would have posted his position concisely and let it go. This protracted argumentative dialog has done little more than erode whatever position he may have had. The longer this thread lives, the worse he looks.

I agree with superbowl, refund his money. Chalk it up to a cost of doing business.

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-19:

I will tell you this, I will look into it on monday and go from there. I'll say this as well, any contractor who signs up with us must sign of on the credit card form stating that they understand the member guidelines and also agree that if they are wanting to cancel then they will run the remainder of their leads. Once we get hat form back signed we will then activate their account. So this gentleman understood the terms before he even started.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Ckmsn, read his post at the top of the page. You guys did some stuff to him that had nothing to do with any contract. I'm off now but since we spent an entire day watching this thing I hope somebody comes back to let us know how you guys "took care of your customer". Call the man that's all he is asking for.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

And train your customer service reps NOT to be making promises that is not in writing.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

ckmsn...do you and Eric work out of the same location or different locations?

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-19:

Why do you ask?

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

Look, we owe infrascan nothing. AKA
Steven B
United States


The point here for me is simple. I am a hardworking person.
And I am here to talk even in this glorified chat room, with all it's 'regulars'.

We are a great company to work with, and as ckmsn and I have stated, call anytime.

And superbowl, if you read the first thing Steve wrote, he even says I answered first call. I always do and will.

Think about this, the articals in this tread tell of contractors making money. Contractors on this thread tell of making money. Ckmsn and I and all MFE employees know we have thousands of contractors who love us and our leads. We are also HERE not hiding. We are right here repling.

Anyone who can read, or has ran a business can clearly see we are right.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

And yes, Ckmsn and I work at the same location.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE, couple of issues then? Why did you say you did owe him money and he cashed a refund check you sent that he never got or cashed?

EricatMFE (01/19/2008)
Read again SuperBowl, he got all his leads, and the refund.


You were the one yelling about slander and other nonsense then you post the guys private info on a public forum? I'm sure one of the mod's will clean that up but why did you do it?

If your so dang important and have so little time to deal with this or your customers then why have you spent hours on this "glorified chat room" burying your company with lies and half truths?

As stated above: "refund his money. Chalk it up to a cost of doing business".

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

Contractors make money with or without you.
Anyway...it's your company and your reputation, so whether you do right or wrong by your customers is your choice. You do the right thing by them, and you will be successful...you do wrong by them, you may be successful for a short time, but then people wise up. No one can tell you what to do...you should know the difference between right and wrong...you do right by people as you say you do, then good things come back your way...you rip off people like the poster feels you do, Karma will be making a visit. You're reputation is in your hands and no one Else's....hopefully, you and the poster will be able to reach an agreement that satisfies both parties...but honestly, offering him to purchase more service from you, is not the road to take. Good luck all..the Basher has spoken.

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-01-19:

I agree, the proof is in the puddin'.

Try MyFreeEstimates and you will see. We will help you close more jobs with a better ROI.

As always, not only myself but the whole MFE staff is at your service.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

I'm with you DB, these guys have not a clue and can't keep simple stories straight. Talk about a gang that can't shoot straight. I doubt they have the $600 or they would have paid it back to the guy they stole it from. Oh' I forgot they did send it, LOL.
"EricatMFE (01/19/2008) Read again SuperBowl, he got all his leads, and the refund."

Hope these NIC's sleep well at night doing what they do to hard working people. Guess they will not be calling the OP Monday now? Now I see they are advertising for free on other threads, they are some real work, what a couple of tools. Good luck all..Superbowl has spoken.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-19:

They're using M3C as a "lead" to get customers for their business for free...yet they expect people to pay for the same service from them. That's funny...anyway Admin won't stand for the free advertising...they will be yanked everytime they post it...and most likely, they will be as well.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

EricatMFE - It's getting to the point, I don't care about the money anymore, it's the principle.
Eric, if after we speak on Monday this matter is not resolved, I will post proof for all to see that everything you say is false.
I ownly want what's rightfully due.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

I saw that DB, they need to pay for advertising like everyone else.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-19:

Infrascan, what ever happens do let DB and I know how it worked out for you, thanks and good luck!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-19:

Monday you will know what's happening, hopefully it's not by evidence I will upload. Have a very nice evening!

Posted by UrFriendlyPirate on 2008-01-19:

I glad I could help out.

Posted by jktshff1 on 2008-01-19:

eric, why don't you go shovel your stuff somewhere else?

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-20:

EricatMFE – OMG… I can’t believe that this thread is still continuing!!! Sounds to me like you have two personalities that click on and off! What’s going on Eric, give the man his money and admit your wrong! The longer this continues and the more you speak the worse you look! Everyone on this thread believes in infrascan, hopefully for your sake this doesn’t go on much longer! Show the proof Infrascan so everyone can see what a scam My free estimates are!

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-20:

If we are such a scam as you say, then why do thousands of large companies use us and have great success?

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-20:

Infrascan, got your IM, yes we hope they do the right thing.

DB, Jkt and Big John here, Right on!

EricatMFE, ckmsn and cooter4life, if your so big and legit then why are you placing free ad's on this site? Why do you keep dragging this out? It's only hurting you. Why don't you have $600 to give back to the man you stole it from?
We don't think you have $600 between you.

Pirate, all you helped do was trash this thread with your garbage posts. Which as we can see have all been removed, thank you Mod's.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

If you weren't scamming people, then you would have refunded the money in the first place. It doesn't matter how many companies maybe safisfied with you, it's the few that are not that puts you under the spotlight. The negative a company has is what people see, not the positive.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

ckmsn - Here you go again with your lies when will it stop?? It just so happens my closing ratio is approximately 80% with my customers.

For everyone who is reading this thread, let's see how Eric diggs his way out from all his lies tomorrow. As you said earlier...proof is in the pudding!!!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

Infrascan...if the contact is going to be over the phone, I'd suggest taping the conversation. Some states allows the taping, while in other States, the person being taped must be notified the call is being recorded. I'd check into that. Seems you were made promises by their customer service, which they now deny and I have a feeling the same will happen tomorrow. Otherwise, only have contact done in writing. Don't let them talk you into spending more money to clear them of their own mistakes.
I'm sure Eric wouldn't have a problem with the call being recorded, since he claims he is an honest businessman.
....Eric, do you have any objection with him recording your phone call? If yes, then why?

Posted by UrFriendlyPirate on 2008-01-20:

I refuse to post on this thread anymore, I've already made up my mind. Super, I can't vote you "not helpful or relevant" enough on this thread!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

DebtorBasher - Good point! I think I'll keep this thread going until resolved, better safe than sorry. I will not accept any phone calls from Myfreeestimates.com. I don’t think Eric understands that much about search engines, not only are people reading this thread by login, the search engines are going wild with all the relevant keywords! I know, seo is another specialty of mine.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

I see they invest alot of money in their advertising as well as writers for their advertising...not to mention the Actors? LOL...ya gotta check these out. I think this pretty much clears up WHY then CAN'T refund your money!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLEooSCsFW0&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGCX9jx5R4c&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hUbePDXt3Q&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIhjjujX0as&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVHB10Iisw4&NR=1

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-20:

ckmsn, I find it very hard to believe that thousands of companies use your service, especially after viewing your drones that you call employees on Youtube, why do they all say and do the exact same thing? Do any of your employees have half a brain! LOL

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-20:

DebtorBasber, That advertising is a riot! I bet Eric personally trained them. LOL

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

Let's give Eric a little break...maybe they were filmed AFTER the writers strike started...LMAO!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1_fSAZx0OU&feature=related

It's funny how one just kept leading to more and more. I don't think they intended them all to be viewed together.

With all the free exposure I've provided to their company...you'd think they would have added me to their trust list...geez, that doesn't even cost a penny to do! LOL!

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-20:

Infrascan, If you need my help in any way please don't hesitate to send me an e-mail. Companies like My free estimate come and go, with people like Eric Carstens running the show they will be gone before you know it! I'll keep in touch.

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-20:

Why do you find it hard to believe? Why don't you all call service magic who is the largest and ask them who their biggest competetor is. 80% huh? You must be either the greatest salesman ever or you hit the wrong number. Anyone else close 80%?

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

The testimonials of relatives do not count..LOL!

Posted by ckmsn on 2008-01-20:

Again - monday I will look into it with eric and see where things are with the financial end of this. I too want resolution vs. childhood bickering which I have become wrapped up in.

Posted by jktshff1 on 2008-01-20:

ckmsn: Again, go peddle you stuff somewhere else.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

EricatMFE
In you’re first post, you stated: “On top of that he was looking for the whole amount refunded to him, after, he fraudulently charged back with his credit card, and lost by-the-way. Even his own credit card company doesn't believe his lies. I also sent the refund check as promised, and of course, it has cleared”.


((( PROOF - LIAR AND A CHEAT – SEE LINK BELOW! )))
http://i26.tinypic.com/2lj3hbq.jpg


Here you can see for yourself as you already knew, my credit card company accepted my dispute with no problem...liar! I repeat what you said earlier, “Proof Is In The Pudding”!

EricatMFE UPLOAD YOUR CANCELED CHECK!!!!

IF NOT, I WILL GLADLY UPLOAD MY BANK STATEMENT!!!!
There’s a remaining balance of $145.00 that was in my account…Pay up as you agreed!!!

Thank You!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-20:

Infrascan, EXCELLENT WORK STEVE! You proved Eric Carstens lied about the credit card company, since he lied about that I'm positive he and his cohorts lied about everything else!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-20:

Infrascan, very good info. MyFreeEstimates.com will not be able to post the canceled check as it does not exist! (another lie) It is now on THEM.

Most companies go out and get video's done professionally then host them on the servers they are running. Looks like these guys make $5 video's then post them on YouTube so YouTube has to pay for the video stream. Wonder if YouTube knows these guys are running the advertising video's free of charge on the YouTube servers? What a bunch of mindless drone video. Guess if you do not have any money or customers you do what you have to do?

Now pay infrascan back his money and this will all go away, except of course that the search engines have indexed it now for all the World to see and read. Can't imagine all this press can be doing much good for MyFreeEstimates.com.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

Myfreeestimates.com has the potential to be one of the best, it's a shame that the CEO is a liar and the customer support team follow in his tracks!
I do very well in business and money is not a concern for me. It's the principle, I feel as though I've been robbed! I have plenty of free time on my hand, so I don't plan on going away quietly!!!

Posted by tnchuck100 on 2008-01-20:

Right now Google reports this thread as the 4th entry when searching "MyFreeEstimates".

That has got to be great publicity.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-20:

They have already made it to about 9th on MSN. You see all of the free video they have running on Google and YouTube? Talk about cheap.

Talk about a PR disaster.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

tnchuck100 - Yes, I noticed this yesterday. My3cents.com has many backlinks and performs very well with the search engines. In order to really get this thread going, I need to focus on much better keywords because myfreeestimates isn't cutting it!

Posted by jktshff1 on 2008-01-20:

Well on the comments on those sites, post a link to this one.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

CONTRACTOR REFERRAL SERVICE CAUGHT IN LIE!
Eric From MyFreeEstimates.com Is A Liar!

MONDAY – VIEW BANK STATEMENT
This will prove Eric has NO canceled Check!

To bad, this site doesn't accept html

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

http://digg.com/business_finance/MyFreeEstimates_com_Complaint

Posted by jktshff1 on 2008-01-20:

That's cool Gen'ral

Posted by Nohandle on 2008-01-20:

Gee, at this point 145 comments. Wonder what happened to all of those in between? Something ain't right in Denmark.
Wonder what?

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-20:

At ease, JKT! LOL!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

VIEW CREDIT CARD STATEMENT
In you’re first post, you stated: “On top of that he was looking for the whole amount refunded to him, after, he fraudulently charged back with his credit card, and lost by-the-way. Even his own credit card company doesn't believe his lies. I also sent the refund check as promised, and of course, it has cleared”.

http://i26.tinypic.com/2lj3hbq.jpg

MONDAY - VIEW BANK STATEMENT - (ADDTIONAL PROOF ERIC NEVER WROTE A CHECK)

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-20:

Infrascan, we know. Bet these two NIC's and the extra one they made up on the fly yesterday wished they had just let this go and given the money back. These two seem to have run into a buzz saw. It looks like they blew it with the long rambling drivel shown at "EricatMFE (01/19/2008) Hello not so mystery person". Then this Eric guy started telling everyone he was going to sue for slander, another stupid move.

Bottom line you will cost them a lot more revenue due to their stupidity than if they had just said sorry and given you your money back. Justice served. I doubt they will refund you a dime as I don't think they have it.

ps) So much for my dreams for San Diego this year...

NoHandle, a well known member posted a lot of trash that was all deleted. That is why the blank spots.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

superbowl - Should be interesting to see the response from Eric when he views my bank statment and there's no cleared check from myfreeestimates.com Also, I'm almost certain I have documentation from my originial sales rep that states I would receive atleast 17 leads per month.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-20:

superbowl - Did you notice the live link on my original post for the keyword "roofing" who did that, it points to servicemagic's roofing contractor page...lol? I tried to install a link earlier today in html with no sucess?? That servicemagic.com is so funny, they always know how to get the traffic!!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-21:

That's a feature of M3C.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-21:

Infrascan, any word from the "boys", it's Monday.

Good job on your New York Giants!! I will stick with my July pick of New England. It will be a great Superbowl this year, two very good and deserving teams.

Here is some humor for today, Pirates pick from this thread, guess he is not as sharp as he thinks?

PirateWithParrot (01/19/2008)
Demonstrating that you don't know much about football again super? Gimme a break. It's gonna be GB in an upset stunner.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-21:

No word, they said enough to prove there guilt! I guess superbowl - Eric can't keep up with all his lies, best to keep his mouth shut for now! Some people forget when they’re telling the truth, could be an illness?
Just curious, why would the CEO of a fairly well visited site call me personally and agree 100% I was in the right and then promise to mail me a check and then put it into collection, where is the reasoning??

It’s possible the Giants could go all the way!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-21:

I forgot the Banks are closed today because of the holiday, will have my bank statements uploaded no latter than Thursday.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-21:

I would like the Giants to beat New England, in fact I would like anyone to beat New England. But I picked my poison last July and will have to see it thru to the end. No opening odd's yet on the Superbowl but my best guess is New England will be the pick. Go Giants! (not really, LOL)

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-21:

LOL...we'll have to see! I would love to hear what pirate has to say?

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-21:

GO BROWNS!
...oh...nevermind...maybe next year!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-21:

DB, can you say "thank you Indy".

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-21:

Thank you Indy.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-22:

Eric: Forth, when you called in asking for 'more' leads, we informed you, not only could you see the high volume that we have in the area, but we would give you a discount, $45 to $29 a lead.
Infrascan: Lie, I never called in asking for more leads, I wanted to know what happened to the 17 leads per month your sales rep guaranteed!!

Eric: On top of that he was looking for the whole amount refunded to him, after, he fraudulently charged back with his credit card, and lost by-the-way. Even his own credit card company doesn't believe his lies.

Infrascan: Lie, please view: http://i26.tinypic.com/2lj3hbq.jpg
Here you’ll see my credit card company believed me with no problem.

Eric: Ninth, funny I have the cleared check from his refund.
Infrascan: I think “Big Boy Here” was right on with his remark with scam artist!!

Infrascan: Why would Eric put $590.00 into collection against me when according to his remark above, my credit card company disputed the charge and he already mailed a check in good faith? Doesn’t make sense, seems to me and everyone else here, you’re trying to make a profit of $590.00!!!

Eric: Have ANY of you had 1 or 2 'crazy' customers, I KNOW you have.
Infrascan: I feel sorry for you!!!

Infrascan: Will be back later today!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-22:

EricatMFE - With all the lies you have provided on this thread and the proof I have, I would like to thank you! A word of caution though, I would highly recommend you call the collection agency immediately because damaging ones credit will bring upon you a huge lawsuit.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-22:

Infrascan, so much for these clowns doing the right thing! Like I said last Saturday we don't think they have the money to refund you between all of them.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-22:

Infrascan...was that a phone conversation you had with them?

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-22:

DebtorBasher - EricaMFE - No, this is just a recap of Erics' lies and my proof. Also, I just got off the telephone with a gentleman named Brad, he is the person in charge of my case at the collection agency in St Paul Minnesota that Eric hired to collect. I mailed a Letter of Dispute last week to the Collection Agency by certified mail, Brad said he never received it. I said okay, I'm getting my attorneys involved. Brad said, "you know what, I'm closing the case"? Why would he close the case so easily, I guess he's done business with Eric before and knew it would be a waste of his time!!

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-22:

Ericatfme, Come on Eric, say something! I guess you ran out of B.S. You might as well pay it now, otherwise you'll be paying much more! You can run but you can't hide pus.y!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-22:

Careful Big John, remember Eric said he was going to sue everyone for slander, maybe we should run and hide? This Eric sounds like one tough cookie, LOL!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-22:

Big John here - I'm going to close this thread, I don't need to prove my point any further. Thank You!

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-22:

Superbowl, The cookie is about to crumble, what do you say about that Infrascan? a.k.a. Cookie crumbler.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-22:

Can't sue me...I gave his company more free advertising by posting links and YouTube ads for him...LOL.

Posted by WaxRash on 2008-01-22:

this is a long flippen thread.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-22:

So, what's your input, Mr. "M3Stars"?

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-22:

Steve, this one may be a record, there were even more comments but they were by Pirate and all got removed, LOL.

Posted by WaxRash on 2008-01-22:

I didnt read this,so I have no contribution.lol

Posted by infrascan on 2008-01-22:

Is Pirate ever in a good mood...LOL!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-01-22:

Infrascan, guess we all missed something before it got yanked "again"...

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-01-22:

Steve...just read the actual complaint, then read my comments...everything else is just jibber jabber.

Posted by Big John here on 2008-01-26:

Infrascan, Why am I not surprised to hear that Eric Carston has not communicated with you in any way, myfreestimates.com will soon be out of business because you proved that Eric Carston and his employees are a bunch of thieves, liars and con artists! What comes around goes around, they'll get what they deserve, you can be sure about that.

Posted by jktshff1 on 2008-01-26:

This has got to be one of the longest threads on M3C.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-02-04:

superbowl - How about those Giants!!!!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-02-04:

That was a very good game! I enjoyed seeing the Giants take down mighty Brady and company and hold them off an the end. Eli did a fine job with with Peyton on the sideline for a change.

Well done Giants!

Posted by sherrorized on 2008-06-21:

WOW! I can't believe several things here! First, the CEO of this lead referral service is spending so much time and energy on this blog. I am inclined to believe that this guy is lying, just based on that. Second, I am amazed that this company has stayed in business since all this went down in January. Unfortunately, they are and unfortunately, I didn't check this site before giving them my company's money, too. They conned my company out of over $800 and refuse to make good on thier promises. I have reported them to the Attorney General's office and filed a complaint with the BBB in Minnisota (where they are). We are currently talking to VISA about discontinuing thier account. As a contractor, we were not screened for quality work, nor were we even asked anything about our company, so who knows what kind of contractors they are recomending! Now, I woonder if this Eric guy is going to spend all his time talking to my post?!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-08-20:

Hey guys! Would you believe I received a phone call 8 days ago from a different collection agency that represented Eric Carstens from Myfreeestimates.com. I referred the gentleman to this thread and haven't heard from him since.

I can't believe the nerve of Eric Carstens, either he's desperate for money that doesn't belong to him or he's a total moron. I go with moron!!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-08-20:

Hey Buddy! How ya been? He is both desperate for money and a moron, LOL.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-08-23:

Hi superbowl: Couldn't be better! Hope everything is going well for you? Since my first complaint with Eric Carsten, I cannot believe all the contractors nationwide that are having the same problem as I did. Take a look at this thread, you will not beieve the bull s--t he's dishing out now. http://sfvblog.com/category/contractors/

Posted by superbowl on 2008-08-23:

This is where he is screwing the contractors. He is selling the few leads he digs up over and over.

"You will be contacted by one or more of our prescreened contractors within the next several days."

Posted by Big Bruno on 2008-09-24:

There seems to be a pattern with myfreeestimates. They also charged my account well before I had exhausted the lead supply I had already paid for. I was treated rudely by their account reps on several occasions. I have contacted others who have had bad experiences with this company and we are planning a legal action against them.

Posted by Big Bruno on 2008-10-29:

How about these?:

http://www.complaintsboard.com/complaints/my-free-estimatescom-c84872.html

http://www.killerstartups.com/Site-Reviews/myfreeestimates-com-free-home-contractor-estimates

http://www.contractortalk.com/showthread.php?t=41687

Eric really expects people to believe all these complaints are just one angry guy?

Posted by EricatMFE on 2008-11-01:

Hello all,

This is Eric at MFE.

Here is some evidence to the contrary…..

Our company works for over 63,000 contractors EVERYDAY!

Have a great day!


dougchips
Insert title


Trade: Doors-Windows-Decks

Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: MA&RI
Posts: 4,134

My Photos
I was in the process of signing up with them when I found this place....I gave SM the web site so they could see why I was not signing up with them. Myfreeestimates is working the best for me now.


07-08-2008, 07:05 AM #4
marc
Pro
Trade: Siding, Windows and Sunrooms

Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: NH
Posts: 423

My Photos
Now I have a warm fuzzy feeling about the Myfreeestimate lead that I'm running this afternoon………..

__________________
Marc Sylvain
Sylvain Contracting

06-23-2008, 04:15 PM #14
Danremodels
Registered User
Trade: Remodeling/Home Improvements

Join Date: Jun 2008
Posts: 2

My Photos
Buying Leads
________________________________________
I have bought leads all over the place, and I agree with most of you.

I have 10 years experience in Marketing for various contractors before starting my own company and I can tell you that online lead generation is by far cheaper than doing it yourself.

Even with all the BS you put up with from them not giving your money back and sending bad leads, just like with everything there are some good and some bad.
The cost of driving your own traffic and manning that traffic is greater than you will ever spend with a Lead company.

I know for a fact, I have done it, then threw in the towel cause it was always an issue.

Myfreeestimates is ok………….. ROI isn't bad.
………I also use RR and SM. I will be lucky to set one app out of ten with the last two.

Adam M.
Marketing Manager
Ameritech Construction Corporation

I just wanted to take a moment and send you this note of thanks. You have been wonderful to work with, and wow, the leads we have been receiving have been awesome! I just checked the other day, did you know, in the 2 months that I've been with My Free Estimates we have already made over $100,000!! My Free Estimates is working great for us! You have made me a real believer!! Thanks for all your fantastic leads. Keep 'em coming!! Adam M. Marketing Manager Ameritech Construction Corporation
Dan M.
Lakeside Exteriors, Inc.

Dear My Free Estimates,

I am writing you to express our appreciation for your services. You are not only giving us numerous leads, but also the quality of the leads we have exceeded my expectations. Your service is helping our business, especially during a slow period in the winter. Thank you for your assistance and we look forward to a long lasting relationship.
Chris D.
Founder
Venture Street

As a professional always looking for a competitive edge, we rely on MyFreeEstimates.com to provide us quality leads. We are diligent with our follow-up and have been able to grow our business with the help of the leads we receive. Whenever I have questions, they provide answers or steer me in the right direction. We thank them for their help and look forward to working with them as our business continues to grow.
Rob L.
Matthew Ryan Home Improvements

To whomever it may concern,

I'm writing to express my satisfaction in the leads and the service that we've received from the team over at www.myfreeestimates.com I've dealt with many online lead services before and they are by far the best. They provide the lowest cost for a qualified lead that I've seen since being in the home improvement business. Within the first few days of starting with My Free Estimates, we received a strong flow of prospects and within the first week sold a window deal for close to $14,000! I would like to take this time to thank everyone who helped make this possible and we look forward to many years of future success from our profitable business partnership.


Loyal Customer September 2, 2008 at 1:14 pm
We have used and LOVED MyFreeEstimates.com for 4 years. If you do look around on the internet, its this same person complaining everywhere. “Infrascan”. The great part is, these contractors are in competition with us. And obviously they have a lot of free time.
This is a LOYAL customer. We use a lot of lead gen companies, as well as other ways of marketing.
have a great day. and yes do your research and consider all sources.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-11-01:

Odd, heard from Infrascan not to long ago, he is still waiting for his refund. Post all the fluff you want but the bottom line is Infrascan got screwed over by MyFreeEstimates.com and has yet to get his money back or any decent leads that were not sold 20 times over.

The complaints still seem to be piling up all over the web about MyFreeEstimates.com. So please excuse me if I don't buy into all the rhetoric you posted. A quick check on Google brings up hundreds of complaints.

Posted by FormerMFEmployee on 2008-11-04:

Alright, so, earlier this year I stumbled upon this page and read everything, it kind of made me chuckle, then, for some reason, I came back to it and find that the same 4 people are still chirping back and forth to each other TEN MONTHS LATER.

So, let me fill you all in, I worked for My Free Estimates earlier this year (2008) and due to a personal illness, I was forced to miss more time than was allowed which made my sales suffer so I came to an agreement with the "newbie" lead (CK) and left the company.

Eric Carstens as a person is a tremendous guy, in the short time that I knew him, I learned that he was a family man who DID start this business from his kitchen table, sometimes with his daughter sitting on his lap while he called contractors and filled them in on leads that he couldn't personally keep up with.

Eric Carstens as a boss is just as good a guy, an employee was badgering a contractor during a call, which Eric stepped in on and immediately reprimanded the employee for being the way that he was with the potential contractor, this person was no longer with the company days later due to his complete lack of respect for the contractors (I will only say that his name starts with an "M")

My Free Estimates DOES work for some people and of course it DOESN'T work for others, it just all depends on who is going to get off of their lazy asses and get out there and get the job, but of course, one guy running his own company with no backing is going to be more hard pressed than someone who runs 15 crews and has time to actually go meet with the homeowners.

As far as selling to more than one contractor? OF COURSE! Do you think a homeowner who goes through the phone book trying to get some work done doesn't call more than one place? If you do, well, then you my friend are a retard, plain and simple, hell, the same homeowners are probably going online to Service Magic and whoever else trying to get estimates on the work that they need done.

As far as an employee telling "infrascan" that he wasn't going to get a "f'n thing" I hardly believe that, no sales person would be stupid enough (when Eric or one of the others could be listening to their call) to say that, neither would any of the customer service people, especially when the blonde bombshell was sitting at the front desk and could hear every word that they had to say, she wouldn't let any CSRs get away with that either.

MFE has such a great ROI for some that it's ridiculous, I know of one guy who will go back and buy an additional $450+ worth of old leads trying to drum up new business and have been doing so ever since the company started out.

So anyways, that's my 3 cents, if MFE didn't work for some of you, well, that's your loss, there are PLENTY of contractors out there now that are getting the leads that come in all of the time for those guys.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-11-16:

Today was a very strange day, I received 4 phone calls at (4:56pm, 4:59pm, 5:00pm and 5:38pm from a person who claimed to be Eric Carstens saying the police are on there way to my home to arrest me for slander. Personally, I don't think Eric would say such a rediculous thing, he’s much to smart for that!! Also, this person likes to chuckle as well when making threatening remarks, makes me think??

Eric, all I want is what’s right, pay my outstanding balance of $145.00 I had left in my account and this thread will be gone!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-11-16:

I don't think the police comes to the house for slander...if you were being sued, you'd be notified by a lawyer. Maybe some former employee *wink* took your phone number when he left the company...recently *wink* and thought they would play games with you.

Do you know the phone number the call came from? If you do, Email it to me...I've got connections...and you can file your own lawsuit against the caller for harassment and threats...if you have the calls on tape or answer machine, keep them.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-11-16:

Eric as stupid as he has proven himself to be on this thread would probably know better than to do something so stupid. As DB points out you have a civil action, not a criminal case. Slander would be a civil issue.

MyFreeEstimates.com are all a bunch of liars and idiots. Yeah Eric, sue me, LMAO!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-11-16:

Eric and his multi Nics and buddies are the ones making things worse...not the poster...I would have given him the refund to stop the embarassment.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-11-16:

Agreed.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-11-17:

A police officer from Minnesota called me last night at 9:00pm and stated many false accusations from Eric about me wanting to harm his family and other ridiculous things. As of now, I really don't want to go into detail about what was said, all I can say is, his remarks are those of a person being extremely delusional and has given me a nervous stomach and to lose work.

Eric, please don’t make me take this case to a higher level, making false accusations is a big problem!

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-11-17:

Well...he's going to have a hard time proving it in court if it isn't true...and when he loses his case, he'll have to pay all of your court fee, also for causing you to lose work over his threats.

Posted by infrascan on 2008-11-17:

According to the police officers report, it's the other accusations Eric made that could be proved as false very easily with just a little bit of research. For the life of me, I can't understand why Eric is trying to dig himself into a hole? The last thing I want to do is prosecute, that wasn't the purpose for this thread.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-11-17:

He backed himself into a corner and doesn't know how to get out...now he's panicking. Reminds me of another member who used to post on here...backed himself into a corner and couldn't get out, when all he had to do was say, "I've mistakened, I apologize"...but he couldn't bring himself to doing it, so he just went on and on until he got booted off the site...and he still can't let it go.

Posted by superbowl on 2008-11-17:

Slander is slander which is a civil issue. The false stuff about threats etc are probably what caused the police report. Eric has nothing other than hundreds of complaints all over the Internet about ripping people off.

Posted by DebtorBasher on 2008-11-17:

It's not considered Slander if the person truely believes it's the truth....So says Judge Judy, Judge Joe Brown, Judge Mathis and Judge Pillo!

Posted by DigitalCommando on 2008-11-17:

Fascinating thread. It looks like this clown started his bizness at the kitchen table for $300.00 dollars and will be ending his business at that same table $300,000 in debt.
Infrascan, Your personal home phone or cell phone calling records can be used to prove that you never called him at the locations he stated. Filing a false claim is at least a misdemeanor in most states, hopefully he will get what he deserves there. Eric it sounds like your going to lose your custom built stretch Pinto limousine and your collection of Hummel figurines due to the economy anyway, but the denial which spews from your orifice will probably bring that on a bit quicker. Food stamps anyone!

Posted by Principissa on 2008-11-17:

Looks like I missed a party. DC is right. Your phone records can prove you didn't call him. That will end this right here and now. And where I live, it's against the law to file false police reports. So if you really didn't call him, tell the police to subpoena your phone records, then file a police report on him for harassment.

Posted by DigitalCommando on 2008-11-17:

Eric, for the low low price of $9.95, I will provide you a lead that shows the address of each unemployment agency! I will GUARANTEED give you at least 2 per week! And for only $5.95 more, I'll actually give you the correct address!

Posted by infrascan on 2008-11-17:

I understand, the false accusations Eric accuses me of wasn't by phone but by internet instead. I don't want to repeat his accusations because of additional embarrassment to him. If Eric was to check my IP address before making such accusations he would have seen it wasn’t me. Eric, I am not a revengeful type of person, I only want what is rightfully mine as you originally agreed!

Try treating contractors the way you would want to be treated and you will be much more sucessful...guaranteed!

Posted by superbowl on 2008-11-17:

This is without a doubt the best thread to come along since the FOF sammie disaster.

Eric, give the man his money back, case closed.

Posted by Jonathan Wells on 2009-08-27:

Sorry for being late on this folks, but I am the fellow quoted in the above article. Therefore, I'd like to address a few things in short.

A) Yes, I believe MyFreeEstimates was the company who actually provided the leads that led to $125k in new business for 1 month. I'm not certain about this fact, but let's give them the benefit of the doubt.

B) It is true that ALL lead generation services that we employed at the time literally fell off the map in terms of viability. They simply failed to return ROI.

C) Regardless, I signed up at a later time with MyFreeEstimates to give them yet another shot. Just as the article states, I complained about the multitude of bad leads being sent my way. However, I was offered a new method: The Pick and Choose Plan. This plan allegedly allows the contractor to preview lead information, and then choose which leads to accept.

D)This scenario continued for roughly the next 7 months. Most leads were no good, and I was vigilant about requesting credit. However, I was tiring of the constant back and forth that was necessary in order to attain each credit - it was simply not worth the administrative hours that were necessitated by MyFreeEstimates' sluggish internal credit approval process. After 7 months, our initial investment of $1,400 had only lessened to $1,325, largely due to amount of credits that were posted back to our account.

E) 2 months later, I receive a credit card statement showing that MyFreeEstimates attempted to bill $1,400 intended to refresh the account. Puzzled by this, since I knew there were funds in the account, I phoned MyFreeEstimates to discuss the matter. Unfortunately, things got worse from there. I spoke to some kid named Chris who was not only unhelpful, but he was unwilling to discuss the matter in detail at all. He avoided any discussion regarding the Pick and Choose Program (it's still listed on their website) and kept rerouting the conversation to the terms on their credit card continuation form. I told him that I understood the terms, but wanted to know who purchased the leads and where did they go? I had no record of them. Chris couldn't answer those questions, but kept repeating his same tired stance. Needless to say, the conversation got heated, and eventually Chris hung up the call since I refused to let the issue go.

F) Bad mistake Chris. Since the matter has yet to be resolved, for now, I will only say that I have pursued the matter with all available legal options. See, Chris, some "hillbillies" do posses a grain of intelligence and we actually keep detailed records.

Even though this is a dated conversation, I will update this status once things are finalized.

Posted by Jonathan Wells on 2009-09-24:

UPDATE: The credit card company ruled in our favor giving us a charge-back for the amount debited by Myfreeestimates.