I bid a 10’x 12′ Cedar deck to a general contractor in twin cities, MN. A simple deck 6′ off the ground for roughly $4300.00. The salesman says I am way too high and he can’t sell it with his markup. I’ve been told by others that decks like that in the cities are going anywhere from $8000.00- $12000.00. If I were selling directly I would probably be another $1000.00 on top of what I bid. Do you think I am out of line. I know there are guys put there that will do it cheaper but I have a pretty good in with the contractor. I think the salesman is trying to beat me down. Thanks, Jeb
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Trying to take a simple deck, priced fairly by a contractor, and sell it with a markup.... that's a tough nut. The average homeowner if probably well able to hire a deck built for themselves, and there's almost nothing the "salesman" is bringing to the table, other than some money for himself. Tell him that if he can't get you your money then he should get out of the way and let you sell it directly to the owner. BAH!
Sorry Jeb, but I can't tell
Sorry Jeb, but I can't tell you if your price is good or not, but I can tell you that what the salesman is bringing to the table is the customer. If you can do your own marketing and bypass the middleman, then do so, but it is realistic for him to add a markup to your price.
Your price is reasonable...you need a proper wage and profit or the job isn't worth doing...(hope that is for spring!!), little cold out your way presently.
We get between $30-100 for cedar decks depending on finish and details.
L