Expert: Leslie - 11/22/2009

Question
I am interested in learning how to ask about price/cost/total damage of a commodity or service in different ways without sounding too rough as in "how much money does this cost?" Are there any refined and subtle ways of asking the same question?
Also in formal negotiation or business writing, what are the alternative ways of asking about pricing, instead of "how much money are you going to charge me" or "how much does your product cost?"  

Answer
John,

If you are too indirect, the person may not answer your question, but you can use a few polite phrases.

Because I have a limited budget, will you provide an estimate of the costs before I sign the agreement?

I need to prepare a cost benefits analysis. Will you give me the cost for this item?

Do you have a price list for your products that you will share with me?

I will need to see a detailed list of the costs before I can make a decision.

Cost is a critical element of my decision, can you give me a detailed estimate?

Hope these suggestions help.

Leslie