Material Costs- Estimating

[Timothy Brillant]

I haven't seem to come across this topic, unless I've missed it so I'm going to post it. I'm 20 and I'm just starting out in the rehab business. I have 6 going right now. I guess I should explain a little bit of background information. My partner and I split, So I’m stuck running the backend and now the front end, however the problem is I'm not very "carpenter" inclined.... I'm looking for someone to share any spreadsheets they have for "roughing" the cost of repair. I have 3 guys on staff that rehabs the projects. I have slowly begun to learn the time each job takes or should take, however the estimating of repair is still foreign to me. I know I need to spend time at the local hardware store, but I go and try and things seem to not make since, I guess where I’m stuck is creating a sheet or form that will hold the pricing information. If anyone can make sense of my rambling and help me id greatly appreciate it.

[Shane M]

I've read (on here I believe) that this is a good book:

2009 National Repair and Remodeling Estimator

You might want to hire a contractor to do an estimate (some will do them for free). Build a relationship with someone that knows what they are doing and then when it comes to the job, make sure you hire them for it!

Chances are after one job referral, they will do your estimates for free. But it is worth paying a small fee if it gives you the chance to find a reliable contractor. Of course referrals go a long way too.