Replies

1. 
   Don_MacShane | Dec 21, 1998 06:59pm | #1

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   R.S. Means residential construction costs is a very good source

2. 
   Guest_ | Dec 22, 1998 10:59am | #2

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   There are plenty of good estimate books and software, I use National Estimator, I think it is from the same source as descibed above. Just remember that these are "estimates". The numbers are solid, but don't tend to take into account individual circumstance, and a builder must mark-up a price. I saw on another website how smaller builders need to add on 40% to make it, so don't run sq. ft. numbers and think you are getting ripped off.

1. 
   Guest_ | Dec 25, 1998 08:17am | #3

   *Yeah, I second what J.D. said about it being only an estimate. This is an extreme, but it illustrates my point: I had been working with a lady on design and layout for quite awhile. She was going the "O/B" route. We had a very good relationship going into the job. Just before any contracts were signed she got herself an estimator program. She ran the numbers and compared this to what I had given her. She figured I was ripping her off to the tune of $150/hour, materials extra. I was flabbergasted!The program did not allow for the particulars of her job, so it came in at a stock run-of-the-mill price. On that basis, disregarding our fine relationship, she branded me a thief. Since she was working for the IRS, she even threatened me with an audit.She also said the job could be finished in two weeks instead of the 5 weeks I had quoted her. After all, the software must be correct, right?Last I checked, it was week 7 and she wasn't even close to finishing.

1. 
   Guest_ | Dec 28, 1998 08:05am | #4

   *You even talked to an IRS person? I hate snakes, but I would be a snake handler tomarrow and I'm honest when it comes to taxes. Those people can ruin your life.

3. 
   Guest_ | Dec 28, 1998 08:06am | #5

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   I am a prospective owner / builder in SE Ohio. I have almost completed the floorplan for a new home that will be started in early spring. I have a decent understanding of most phases of residential construction and am using a CAD package to design the new house. Howsoever, I have no experience with estimating the cost of construction of a new residence. I am interested in either a book or software package that will facilitate this task. Also, has anyone seen an online site where estimating can be done for a fee? And what are the mistakes most people make when first estimating? Too high? Too low?

   TIA

   Aaron

4. 
   Elierick | May 16, 2022 11:07am | #6

   Hey Guys, Here's an online remodeling estimator. Now is much easier to estimate costs and times https://costcertified.com/