Rough Estimate
Rough estimate . . . How does DAD’s do it? First, it is important to understand the life cycle of a projects cost. It has 3 parts:
(1) Rough estimate
(2) Final estimate
(3) Final cost
Every remodel project is unique and different. Regardless of what anyone says, there are no standard industry averages. No two clients have the same unique style, tastes, or preferences. We all see things differently. There is no button to push and out comes an estimate.
DAD’s Construction rough estimates are averages. The clients project and their specific requirements drive these averages – not DAD’s. Client requests can increase or decrease these averages. Rough estimates provided by DAD’s reflect client driven projects actually completed over the most recent 2 years. These reflect reality and what people actually did and are doing using high quality and durable products, materials, and people. These illustrate pricing of materials and labor across economies including building code changes.
The final estimate is prepared after the client approves the Plans and it’s very detailed and comprehensive. It includes all materials, parts, labor, installation, and sales tax mid range, not at the bottom.
The final cost of the project is known after the job is completed. This typically represents the sum of the final estimate and changes after the plans are approved. These changes include items the client adds or subtracts along with any unforeseen issues. Unforeseen items include things like:
- Opening a wall and there are wires, pipes, etc. that are in the way and must be moved
- Insect damage
- Water damage
Are Rough Estimates a Problem?
Many contractors, in order to get your business, provide unrealistic estimates employing scenarios and allowances tactics. Then they use the change order process once the project is well under way to jack-up the price. Worse, they do the job for the quoted price. However, the final product falls apart in a few years because of poor workmanship and substandard materials. Do not sacrifice safety, quality and durability to save a few dollars up front. You will pay far more down the road to fix the problems.
DAD’s has new customers every year referred by clients who did not hire DAD’s. These new clients tell us that their friends did not hire DAD’s but wish they had. What we learn from these clients is that in the end, the price ends up where DAD’s said it would be all along. Unfortunately, they made the mistake of going with the low bid and got sandbagged. Worse, the quality and experience were nothing like what DAD’s clients always enjoy.
DAD’s has a simply philosophy:
- Always be honest and up-front with the client.
- Never pretend a project can be safely and correctly performed at any budget.
DAD’s takes your trust very seriously. DAD’s will never comprise the health and safety of you and your family simply to make a few dollars. If the budget is too low, the client will need to scale the project down or wait until they have the funds. Remember the golden rule of construction: If it is too good to be true, it’s not! Surround yourself with people who will tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.
The rough estimate process used by DAD’s is the most reasonable and realistic method available. DAD’s final estimate is completely open and honest. There are no surprises, tricks, gimmicks, or hidden up-charges. You know exactly what you are paying for and how it is going to look. Isn’t this what you would expect from your DAD?
Always Hire a Reliable and Dependable Contractor to Remodel your Home
Always work with a trustworthy contractor like DAD’s Construction. We are experts in bathroom, kitchen, and interior remodeling. We remodel and manage projects in an efficient manner. DAD’s Construction will do everything to minimize the possibility of change orders. Our team will make sure we have all the necessary information to prepare a proposal that meets your requirements. Rest assured that we will provide you with a detailed, by line-item contract. We will make sure that the contents of this agreement are properly and clearly communicated to you. If you have questions or need updates regarding your project, we will always answer your inquiries.
How Can I Receive More Information on Remodeling my Home?
If you would like more information on enjoying the best bathroom, kitchen, and interior remodeling experience in Orange County, call Dan at (949) 380-0177 or at dan@dadsconstruction.com for a free in home consultation. DAD’s serves all of South Orange County California. This includes Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Foothill Ranch, Portola Hills, Ladera Ranch, Irvine, San Clemente, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto de Caza, Dove Canyon, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Aliso Viejo.
