How to Get the Right Quote From Tradesmen

When committing to a construction project, you have to be prepared for the cost that comes with it. From renovation work to new builds and commercial construction, quality workmanship has a price tag. However it’s easy to get charged over the odds if you’re not smart about getting quotes from tradesmen. To ensure that you get an honest quote from contractors, builders or artisans, have a quick read of this helpful guide.

Firm Up Your Details

In order to get a like-for-like comparison of your quotes, you need to be clear on what exactly your project entails. That way, every quote will be based on the same information. Commonly known as a tender package, you should compile as many details as possible about the job itself, including planning information, the scope of the work required, and any materials you think will be needed. This should also prevent any nasty surprises during construction, for material costs or extra work that wasn’t included in the quote.

Estimate or Quote?

Make sure that both you and the company/tradesman are on the same page as to whether the price they have given you is a quote or estimate. And are materials included? If it’s a quote, then that should be the final figure that you are charged upon completion of the work. However an estimate should still give a good gauge of the final cost, and anything significantly higher than the estimate should factor in additional materials or work agreed prior to completion.

Beware of Super-Cheap Quotes

Although your heart may leap with joy when you get a quote significantly lower than the rest, tread carefully before pursuing cheap building quotes. Whilst there is a possibility that they are genuinely great value, the chances are that something is amiss. Perhaps the contractor or company in question lack the skills and experience to provide work to a high standard, or in some cases they could even be taking you for a ride.

If you do get a quote that seems too good to be true, go online and do a little research to see what it brings up on the company. Review sites and even their own website can give you a good idea of how trustworthy and skilled they are. Do they have a portfolio, testimonials, and relevant accreditation? If not, trust your instinct and don’t be tempted by the price.

Whether you are choosing to source individual tradesmen (stone mason, electrician, plumber etc) yourself, or you’re approaching companies that will provide an end-to-end solution for your project, follow the above guidelines and you should get a quote that is both accurate and honest for your work. Know exactly what the project will entail before you call any builders, and accept that high standards may incur a higher price. That way, you can get the right quote for the quality of workmanship you expect.

Now you should be equipped to pick the right tradesmen for your jobs, happy choosing!

This article is written by Kelly Gilmour Grassam, a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire. You can follow her on Twitter at @KellygGrassam. This article has been written with helpful information from Henley Stone.

Prospect Sellers

If you are thinking of selling your house in Atlanta, contact us today, we can visit with you at your house and we will give you an honest opinion on what needs to be done before you list your house for sale. Our construction company can give you a free estimate on any work that needs to be done. Find out what is the current price of your home for free, contact our team at 770-309-6417 to get your free market analysis of your home and sell your home with confidence. Our agents can also help you determine if the house needs any repairs or updates in order to get the best possible price. Call us today.

Foreign Real Estate Investors: How to Purchase Real Estate in the USA?

Telmo Bermeo Real Estate Broker

About Telmo Bermeo

Small Business Owner, specializes in marketing homes for sale in the Atlanta Area by using the most up to date Internet Marketing Tools.

Real Estate Broker serving the Atlanta Metro Area, for over 12 years. If you are planning to buy or sell your home in Atlanta, call Telmo Bermeo at 770-309-6417