I don't use square foot pricing to arrive at a quote, not even a ballpark budget for the customer. I DO use a per square foot figure after the job is quoted to compare it to other similar recent jobs. It helps me keep a mental picture about what is driving costs in more complex projects. Here in Hood River OR we are way above the $2.75 figure you mentioned. For instance I just quoted a 2200 sq. ft. house that is upscale but by no means ultra fancy for about $16000.00 and I'm pretty sure I'll get the project, maybe with some minor negotiating.
