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I am a new contractor in the remodeling and new construction business. What is the best source for estimating projects? There seems to be quite a few books and software on the subject. I was wondering if anyone could recommend one.
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Hi Scott,
I can't recommend a particular book that I've used though there are many available.
Experience will be your best teacher. Everything takes longer than you figure. Try to allow for incidentals and contingencies.
Use an outline when estimating and think the entire job through. Consider logistics and accessability as well. Break the job down into its component parts and devote some thought and pre planning to to all the details.
And measure accurately making overage allowances.
Work time and material as opposed to lump sum. Get your wage and enjoy the work. Regards,
Dan-O
*I had very good sucess with the Means books for estimating;here in Vancouver, there was supossedly a cost factor of 1.1 to be applied to all costs, but I was quite successful quoting the prices straight from the book.I did however double and triple check prices for awhile before I followed it 100%.
*http://www.costestimator.com/try this
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I am a new contractor in the remodeling and new construction business. What is the best source for estimating projects? There seems to be quite a few books and software on the subject. I was wondering if anyone could recommend one.