Design Firms and Developers are looking for any and all opportunities to design and build their projects utilizing the latest and most cost-effective products and systems without loss of quality. Now more than ever the design and construction industry cannot tolerate lack of commitment from their Team. Decisions on Go – No Go are usually driven by final cost of construction.

During lean times, why would an architect or developer pay for a cost estimate when they can get it for free from a General Contractor? Having been a General Contractor and a General Contracting Estimator for the past three decades, I’ve experiencing first-hand the disadvantages of obtaining a free estimate from a GC.

Cost Estimates can range from “bar napkin sketches” – single floor plan and elevation pages that are partial complete, to fully complete for-construction drawings and specifications. These estimates can be used to establish budgets, develop architect or engineer estimates, set funding requirements, or most importantly determine if the project will move forward – or be abandoned.

Unless the GC has initially been selected early in the design phase and is working with the Team from the beginning, they really aren’t motivated in providing the most accurate information that will help the Team achieve Project goals.

• The question becomes, how much real time do they invest in something that could make or break the success of the project?
• If the GC is busy, typically a request for (free) estimating will be handled quickly or passed off to someone that is not fully experienced in providing the estimate. Another option for the GC is to rely on sub-contractors for pricing, who may be just as busy and tend to work up quick and “safe” estimates just to maintain their relationship with the GC.
• Are they providing low or unrealistic estimates with the intention of staying involved in this project if it moves forward?
• Are they representing the best interest of the architect & developer – or theirs?

This is where the value of hiring an Independent Cost Estimator is of utmost importance. They will provide an Independent Opinion of Probable Cost with no underlying interest in building the project.

• There is significant value in having an experienced and accredited Estimator as part of the team to bring fresh perspective and real world experience from bidding and managing projects.
• The independent estimator wants to keep you as a client forever, so accuracy is of utmost importance. His goal is to make sure you’re your Project is protected from “change order creep”.
• Does the GC have a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) on staff that takes pride in his estimate and adheres to the standards set forth by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)?
• Architects and Developers rarely have the time or experience to develop detailed estimates with the latest cost information. They honestly have better things to do with their time.

We ask: How secure would you feel about a project if your client decided to obtain free architectural drawings or free estimates from another developer for their project?

A wise man once said: “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price (free) is forgotten”

Benjamin Franklin

An Independent Cost Estimate is the right choice for every project. Don’t be drawn toward “free” services, that could have a huge impact to your project in the end.