Impressions and Estimates
I practice a system of Estimation that is 3-phase.
In the first phase I offer an Impression. I assemble the Impression based upon our initial meeting and with minimal research. It will include several line items that identify the probable costs associated with various parts of the project: Management, Demolition, Framing, and will include estimated allowances for things like windows, fixtures, etc... Impressions provide you with an organized assessment of your project and a sense of its financial scope. An Impression is the BEGINNING of a real conversation regarding your project.
A project may begin based upon the Impression, or it may enter the second phase of my system of Estimation: The Estimate. Having clarified priorities and budget with the Impression, I'm able to move forward with project research that is more specific and detailed. At this phase we involve subcontractors in the discussion to more fully assess your project. I assemble material lists and give careful consideration to the time line. The format for the Estimate is the same as the Impression.
The third phase of Estimation becomes contractual. For this phase I work to provide a Not To Exceed Estimate...a fixed price for your project. It is unusual for me to work with customers this way as the input of energy is significant enough that I require compensation for my time.
In the first phase I offer an Impression. I assemble the Impression based upon our initial meeting and with minimal research. It will include several line items that identify the probable costs associated with various parts of the project: Management, Demolition, Framing, and will include estimated allowances for things like windows, fixtures, etc... Impressions provide you with an organized assessment of your project and a sense of its financial scope. An Impression is the BEGINNING of a real conversation regarding your project.
A project may begin based upon the Impression, or it may enter the second phase of my system of Estimation: The Estimate. Having clarified priorities and budget with the Impression, I'm able to move forward with project research that is more specific and detailed. At this phase we involve subcontractors in the discussion to more fully assess your project. I assemble material lists and give careful consideration to the time line. The format for the Estimate is the same as the Impression.
The third phase of Estimation becomes contractual. For this phase I work to provide a Not To Exceed Estimate...a fixed price for your project. It is unusual for me to work with customers this way as the input of energy is significant enough that I require compensation for my time.