Question 1

How many estimates should I get for a remodel?

Accepted Answer

Get at least 3 estimates, ideally 4. This gives you enough data points to understand the market rate for your project. With only 2 estimates, you can't tell if one is unusually high or low. With 3-4, patterns emerge: if two contractors quote $50,000 and one quotes $25,000, the low bid likely has missing scope or inferior materials. Make sure all contractors are bidding on the same scope of work - provide each one with the same project description so you're comparing apples to apples.

Question 2

Should I always go with the lowest bid?

Accepted Answer

No. The lowest bid is often the most expensive in the long run. Low bids frequently come with: vague scope (leading to expensive change orders later), inferior materials (that need replacement sooner), inadequate timelines (rushing leads to poor quality), or the contractor underestimating the job (they'll either cut corners or ask for more money mid-project). Look at the total package: scope detail, material specifications, timeline, warranty, contractor experience, trust score, and payment terms. The best value is usually in the middle - not the cheapest, not the most expensive.

Question 3

What if estimates are very different in price?

Accepted Answer

A spread of 15-25% between estimates is normal and reflects differences in overhead, profit margins, and material selections. If one estimate is 40%+ higher or lower than the others, investigate why. Ask the high bidder: 'Your price is significantly higher than others - what am I getting that they're not including?' Ask the low bidder: 'Your price is significantly lower - can you walk me through how you arrived at this number?' The answers will tell you a lot. Common reasons for big gaps: different material quality, missing scope items, different labor assumptions, or one contractor being desperate for work.

How many estimates should I get?