You’ve met with two contractors, explained what you’d like to accomplish, and received two estimates. One comes in at $85,000. The other at $140,000.
How can the same renovation have such different prices?
The answer is often simpler than you might think: they aren’t actually estimating the same project.
When a renovation hasn’t been fully designed, contractors are often pricing based on assumptions. They may draw from similar projects they’ve completed, the finishes they believe you’ll choose, or their interpretation of what you’re envisioning.
And those assumptions can vary dramatically.
One estimate might include an allowance for cabinetry, lighting, plumbing fixtures or tile. Another might anticipate higher-end materials, additional electrical work or changes to the layout.
Neither contractor necessarily has bad intentions. But without a completed design and clearly defined scope, it’s difficult to know whether you’re comparing apples to apples.
This is why I believe in designing before estimating.
At FD Design Co., we take a design-forward approach. Our clients invest in the design process first, allowing us to establish the layout, materials, fixtures, cabinetry and details before preparing the construction estimate.
The result is a much more complete picture of what the renovation will cost, rather than a collection of allowances that may change once selections are made.
But there’s another benefit that homeowners don’t always consider.
Construction moves more smoothly when decisions are made before it begins.
Imagine your electrician is ready to install lighting, but you haven’t selected the fixtures. Or your tile installer is scheduled, but the tile you’ve fallen in love with has a six-week lead time.
Those decisions can affect schedules, trade coordination and ultimately the cost of your project.
When design and selections are completed upfront, materials can be ordered and deliveries coordinated around the construction schedule. Instead of making dozens of decisions while living through a renovation, you can focus on watching your home come together.
Before comparing renovation estimates, ask yourself one important question:
Are we comparing prices for the same project, or simply two different ideas of what that project might become?
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