Below is a short, polite reply you can send to Flavia, plus a simple step-by-step explanation so you know why each part is there.
Sample reply
Subject: Re: Project terms and payment Hi Flavia, Thanks for your quick reply and for explaining everything. We can accept some of your suggestions right away. I need to discuss the remaining points with my boss and will get back to you tomorrow. About the payment: we don’t usually ask for 50% upfront, but for repeated cooperation we can be flexible. A smaller deposit with milestone payments works for us — for example, 20% upfront, 40% at the first milestone, and 40% on completion. If you prefer different percentages or milestone timing, please tell us and we can discuss. Thanks for understanding. Best regards, [Your Name]
Step-by-step explanation (simple)
- Say thanks: Start by thanking Flavia for her quick reply. It’s polite and shows you appreciate her time.
- Acknowledge the suggestions: Say you can accept some suggestions right away — this shows you read and agree to parts of the message.
- Say you’ll check with your boss: Tell her you need to discuss the other points and will reply tomorrow. This sets a clear timeline and keeps communication honest.
- Address the payment clearly: Remind her your usual rule (not 50% upfront) but show flexibility for repeat work. Offer a concrete alternative (a smaller deposit + milestones) so she can see a clear plan.
- Example percentages are just suggestions. You can change them to whatever your boss prefers.
- Close politely: Thank her again and finish with a friendly sign-off (Best regards, Your Name).
If you want, I can make a shorter or more formal version, or adjust the deposit percentages to match what your boss usually accepts. Tell me which style you prefer.