| |
| |
|
Thread "Paying for estimate preparation." started by Gor&co on 05/18/2006 8:22am
|
Posted by Gor&co
on 05/18/2006 8:22am |
Paying for estimate preparation.
|
This is a different kind of 'paying for an estimate' question.
I don't do much "new work". The new construction that I do is generally specialized or high end homes. Lately, I've been swamped with prints waiting to be bid on. Quite frankly, I'm plenty busy, and don't care whether I win these bids or not, but I want to give some sort of estimate anyhow.
I've been toying with the prospect of using an estimating service. I see ads in trade magazines and get letters from guys that do this. You just mail off your prints, along with what all your overhead %'s, labor, and profit are to be, and they prepare the estimate for you.
Anyone ever used such a service? Did it work out? How are these guys paid? What are the potential pitfalls (other than possibly getting a bid that is way too low)?
Gor&co |
|
|
Posted by etione
on 10/11/2006 11:07am |
Re: Paying for estimate preparation.
|
I am a contractor and put numbers together for different other contractors. The pros are increased efficency for you. The cons are paying a fee for work done and assuming liability for the project. I use high end software so I can actually set up just like you are now. Production rates, vendors,etc, all need to be provided. You also need to stay available via phone for questions on your methoods. Generally you can get this done for a flat fee per bid or percentage on winning bid. The other response that mentioned "costing tools", they generally are 20% over market evaluating at worst case scenarios. The use for them is quick reference for addon work etc..Hope this helps |
|
|
|
 |
|
| |
|
|
| |
 |
| Promote your company in the directory of suppliers & manufacturers and find sales leads nationwide. |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
|
 |
| |
|