Replies

1. 
   Cloud_Hidden | Dec 13, 2001 06:18pm | #1

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   You'd probably get the best help in the business folder.

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   Michael_Rimoldi | Dec 14, 2001 05:09am | #2

   *Its hard to say (at least for me) what percentage each component comprises and how to identify it as a part of the profit.As for scheduling, order components as soon as you "think" you'll need them as by the time they'll get there, you "will" need them. And for subs, call them NOW to make sure they are there when you wantneed them. Mike

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   Schelling_McKinley | Dec 14, 2001 07:51am | #3

   *I never have an allowance figure that is based on a percentage or a vague idea. I use an allowance figure that refers to a specific product and installation. It may be a number that I know from a recent project. In this case I can refer the customer to the specifications for that project and we can figure the changes using those specs as a basis. If there is no such recent project, the only safe way is to make your own hypothetical specs and price those out stick by stick.Scheduling is an excellent exercise for you when you are compiling your estimate. I set up a time line calendar and start at the beginning of the project. Allot the time required to do each task starting with the initial phase. Start each phase as soon as the required work preceding it is completed. This will give you the most optimistic schedule and you will of course need to add time to make it realistic but it will make you consider how the whole project must be organized for it too run smoothly. You will know the required lead times for ordering any materials and can adjust any of this as the project proceeds at its own pace. All of this is a lot of work and frankly I don't do it on most projects, but I have always been glad when I did.

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   harvest_builders | Dec 14, 2001 07:51am | #4

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   i posted this request before but had to take my computer in for some work and was not able to respond to those kind enough to try to help me. i am newly licensed and inexperienced in the building business. my partner has contacts with builders and subs and will be handling that aspect. i will be handling the office/paperwork/picking out components part. i want to know what are the typical percentages that are used for allowances and where to learn about scheduling. what i am experiencing is this- looking at cabinets, lights, flooring etc. i think what i am looking at is a good value -quality for price. but how do i know if the quote is within where i need to be to provide good quality and make a profit. also i would like to be able to comparison shop and come in under allowance where possible. but not knowing where to aim budgetwise makes it impossible to know if i am making good decisions or not. 2 price ranges-175k and 250k thanks