You Have Better Things to Do than Estimate
By Michael StoneGetting a commitment from potential clients is critical if you want to save yourself a ton of time and work putting together an estimate that won’t go anywhere. You have better things to do with your time.
Estimating Labor in Construction
By Michael StoneOur last newsletter triggered a question on estimating labor.
Estimating Errors Cost Money
By Michael StoneEstimating the cost of a remodeling, renovation or specialty project accurately is critical if you want to be profitable.
When Success Looks Impossible
By Michael StoneAfter reading our books and trying to do things right, why is he still not making any money?
Estimating, Labor Burden, and Cost of Goods Sold
By Devon StoneWhen you own a small business you wear a lot of hats. Understanding the numbers might not be your favorite hat, but numbers are important because they show where you stand financially.
Stop Giving Free Estimates
By David LupbergerYou should stop providing free estimates. It’s called free consulting, and you won’t be successful giving away your time. (Guest Article from David Lupberger, Remodel Force)
Strengthening Your Business
By Michael StoneI’ve been around the construction industry long enough to know that it isn’t always rosy. When a recession hits, construction is one of the early victims.
Estimating Incomplete or Conceptual Plans
By Michael StoneTo be blunt: projects like this are a waste of time. I’ve rarely if ever seen a request like this turn into a contract
Preparing to Estimate
By Michael StoneEstimating is necessary, but it isn’t easy; it’s hard, tedious work. There are four basic things you need before you begin your estimate.
Your Labor Rate and Your Markup
By Michael StoneUsing the wrong labor rate, or using someone else’s markup when you don’t know their assumptions, is one of the biggest mistakes we see and the difference can be thousands of dollars.
Get a Commitment Before You Invest
By Michael StoneIf you want to make the best use of your time and not allow others to waste your time, don’t estimate major projects without a design agreement.
Estimating Basics
By Michael StoneWhen profits are down, missing the estimate on jobs is almost always part of the reason.
Estimating Blunders, Part 4
By Michael StoneError factors, Superman complex, Demolition and Discovery agreements, hauling out the trash.
Estimating Blunders, Part 3
By Michael StoneKnow the inspectors required in your area and add an “inspector factor” to your estimates.
Estimating Blunders, Part 2
By Michael StoneYou have a choice in how you do your estimating. Some methods work well, but unfortunately, many don't.
Estimating Blunders
By Michael StoneThe purpose of an estimate is to price the job. If you want to be profitable, accuracy matters.
Making it Work, Profitably
By Michael StoneMy clients are constantly chiseling me down, everyone makes money on the jobs except me.
Itemized Estimates
By Michael StoneWhy clients request itemized estimates, and how you should respond.
Estimating: How to Improve Your Profit Margin
By Michael StoneEstimating errors cost money. Lower your error factor but considering these common mistakes.
Construction Estimating: The Basics
By Michael StoneEstimating basics, with the goal of getting you back to the potential client quicker with a more accurate estimates.