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#20013 01/07/03 08:28 AM
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 206
H
Member
Has anyone ever heard of this estimating service? I got a fax about it this morning. I might consider using a service like this if its reliable. At least until I get more estimating for myself - or start making enough money to hire an estimator...

#20014 01/07/03 08:38 AM
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 5,392
S
Member
yes, they exist in many forms, but nothing will replace your 'gut' reaction to jobs & customers......

#20015 01/07/03 08:48 AM
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 206
H
Member
yeah - i understand that - my problem is that my estimating experience is lacking and that makes me question myself big time - whether my estimates are accurate. I don't feel like a contractor is going to say - hey - this bid is outrageous! They're just never going to call me again.

I'm treading water over here after the holidays...we need work...

#20016 01/07/03 02:37 PM
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 70
B
Member
Have you ever thought of estimating software? I don't use any, but I have seen several that looked good. That with your "gut reaction" should do you pretty good and save you some money (and the software would be a tax deduction).

Bob

#20017 01/07/03 03:49 PM
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 206
H
Member
Here's my probloem with estimating software - I can't figure out how to use it! LOL! I have a couple of demos and they seem so complicated. Then when you call for support all they want to do is sell you stuff. Not to mention - have you priced that stuff!? I'm having a hard enough time paying health insurance let alone paying 700 - 800 bucks for software...

I am messing around with one program - but I believe you still have to enter in pricing for certain types of materials and such - which is one of my biggest hurdles.

#20018 01/07/03 09:24 PM
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,381
Likes: 7
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Happi Man:
You can get materials pricing from Trade Services, they used to have a book, don't know if they still offer it or only offer on-line service now.

There are also some "estimating" books...look in the left side margin of this page<<<<<<<

I tried the computer route, didn't like what I saw/used/tried. Made a basic Excel spreadsheet form, plug in my man hours, and get materials pricing from the supply houses, or use a supply house price book.

Good Luck, hope you land some work. Stay competitive and don't give away the store.

Oh yea, we won't get into the insurance costs now but the only way the premiums are going is ^^^

John


John
#20019 01/09/03 09:36 PM
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 206
H
Member
I just ordered Electrical Estimating by Michael Holt. Anyone have any experience with this book? Any comments?

#20020 01/13/03 07:18 AM
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 42
M
Member
I'm quite sure there are Excel templates out there on the Web for estimating. Just do a search on Google (or the search engine of your choice).

MacWire


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