Home Improvement Estimates Done Easily

by Dionne Voughar

Let’s face it: when it comes to home improvements, some of us are all thumbs. Despite our best intentions or most valiant efforts, it can take a professional to get the job done right. If you’re one of these people, you need to protect yourself by gaining a good understanding of home improvement estimates.

First and foremost, a home improvement estimate is just that: an “estimate”. You’ll receive a price that is not set in stone, and will likely vary one way or the other. If you have no idea how much your home repair or renovation will cost, you’ll need to find someone who can give you an honest estimate.

Working with an experienced contractor, you’ll receive a “ballpark figure” to give you an idea of the total cost of the project. A home improvement estimate is a great way to figure out how much money you’ll have to spend, before you dig in and start working.

Calculating the Calculation

Your contractor will use the dimensions of your home to determine the cost of the project. No reputable contractor will give an estimate “sight unseen”, so be wary of anyone who offers a price before visiting the property, inspecting the area and taking dimensions.

This is important information that your contractor will use to determine the time and materials required to complete the job. He or she will explain the markup system, and compare your job to regional pricing. Each of these steps will contribute to your home improvement estimate, which is the total price of the job.

Pricing Your Materials

A professional contractor will base his or her material costs on information gathered from researchers. These figures may be calculated using compiled costs gathered from hundreds of different lumberyards throughout the United States. Researchers will also compile labor costs by tracking the labor trends and collecting certain data from professional remodeling contractors. The contractor that you choose should have access to this information and use it in his or her calculations.

Costs, fees and prices are collected from different sources and areas to determine your home improvement estimate. Every job is different, so these costs should be specific in determining the price of your project. Your contractor will also take into accounts other factors, such as the area that you live in, to calculate a truer estimate. Be as helpful as possible, because the closer the estimate is to actual costs, the easier it will be to get the job done.

Your home improvement estimate price is based on basic information that you share with your contractor. It’s a good indication of what your project will cost, but your actual price may vary just a little bit.

As you work with your contractor, he or she will be able to make accurate measurements and add to any of the details you have already received. These additional calculations and extenuating circumstances may affect the end price. Factors like impeded access to work areas, unusual terrain, scheduling and season weather conditions can also impact your estimate.

Be sure to use current material prices when calculating your home improvement estimate. These are the prices that you will pay if purchasing the materials at your local store. If your contractor is able to provide materials at a discounted or bulk price, it will be like getting a little bonus when the job is complete.

Keep in mind that if you insist on certain products for their quality and style, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting. Materials purchased at contractors’ rates may not offer the same guarantee, so it can be worth the extra money for your satisfaction and peace of mind.

Never agree to hire a contractor without first seeing a home improvement estimate. Be sure that the quoted price falls within your budget, and don’t be afraid to haggle to bring the price down just a little.

About the Author:

Columnist Dionne Voughar is a contributor to a variety of popular Internet magazines, on home improvement and home garden subjects.