Truth of the matter is, our "potential" customer had us complete 2 on site meetings (1-1/2 hour commute to the mountains), 2 off site meetings (downtown Denver) and 3 revisions to the specifications. All the while assuring us that he would pay for all of these items and our time if we did not come to a conclusion and a signed contract (at which point the services would be free).
Obviously, we didn't get the job and probably for the best. Free estimates are still our protocol. If we do come across a customer needing more than 2 revisions, we sign an "Intent to hire" agreement simply stating that we will be paid for our time if a contract is not signed.
Our business is not in the bait and switch category as it seems our "potential" customer has done in this case. Check us out if interested www.EpicDimensionBuilders.com

Asked these guys to provide an estimate which they said was free, then tried to revise the estimate and come to a middle ground but they demanded too much. Walked away and never signed a contract with them. Then got a bill for each meeting and the estimate. Don't trust a word they say because they have a motive behind it. Seem to try and accommodate your needs but really only care about their pocket books.

I do not recommend using Epic Dimension Builders, i would stay far far away