Saving Time and Money by Estimating The Cost Of Construction

A contractor knows that creating an estimate is the first step in securing a job. The client will look at all of the estimates and choose the one that best suites his or her needs.
Estimating a small home is pretty basic. An experienced estimator can look at the square footage of the home to be built and have a good idea of what it will cost to complete the project. He or she also knows that there is a chance of delays and ever changing prices of materials.

The Power Of Estimating - Cuts Costs In The Long Run

Whether it is because they are out of stock or there is an outstanding invoice, material suppliers are notorious for delaying the delivery of materials for a job. This is not only poor business practice, it can lead to laborers who get an hourly rate just sitting around the jobsite doing nothing, and getting paid for it. This is the number one reason that construction jobs run over budget.

Most contractors are very good at estimating construction costs. There payments are made in increments that have been prearranged. This method of payment keeps the job up and running to insure that it is completed on time. However there is a pattern of business that must be followed to insure that the job runs smoothly without costly delays.

The contractor must decide which types of materials that he or she will need for the construction job. Flooring, windows, doors, roofing and plumbing are all necessary components to complete any construction job. The contractor may opt to use less expensive materials; this will bring the cost of the job down, however it may show in the end results.

The contractor must also decide who will work on the project. If he or she uses sub contractor, they will have to submit estimates on their services and the contractor will choose the lowest bid.

Architectural, legal expenses, and the building permit are another expense that a contractor needs to include on an estimate. If he or she has the experience, it will be very close to the actual amounts.

When a contractor has the experience, creating an accurate estimate will not be a problem. Creating an estimate will not only give you a timeframe for completion, its can save you a lot of time and money.

Nick Hurd is the developer of LiteningFast Estimating. LiteningFast is an estimating program that helps you estimate faster, easier and more accurately. It's integrated with QuickBooks to provide job cost. Estimating the Costs of Construction needs to be accurate and timely It was introduced to the market in 1994 and currently has over 3,500 users in the US, Canada, and around the world.