Jim1956


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Jim1956


Recent comments


Re: Should Builders Provide Free Estimates?

What about getting paid for the design work necessary to provide a bid? I always work on projects where there is no architect involved and there are no plans or drawings. The homeowners try to describe what they want but they don't really know how to describe what they want. If I'm lucky, they'll provide clues in the form of some pictures from magazines. Sure, I know they want a room addition or kitchen remodel but they don't have the background to be able to accurately convey their ideas. I usually have to draw a plan to show what I am going to build. Many times a potential customer will then give my drawing to another builder who then gives a lower price than me. Or, I will spend a few hours at the site brainstorming ideas with the customer for their remodel. Often, I'll come up with a great idea or cost saving solution, they take that idea to another builder and I lose out. I'd like to stop leaving money and ideas on the table. Jim 1956

posted: 5:25 pm on December 21st