Construction Estimate Overkill

I just received an estimate for the cost of renovating a 1910 brick row house. I can’t believe the cost? 30 times more than when the house was purchased in 1958.

What’s good about this firm is that they break down each service charge, so you can see exactly what you’re paying for. Now this estimate doesn’t include tile, grout, glass shower doors, bathroom vanities, toilets, sinks, and lighting. Several things estimated are 8 new Marvin windows, knocking down several walls, skim-coating, complete renovation of cellar, yet the change of the positioning of the pipes weren’t included in this estimate, 100 points & 2 sub-panels of electricity, 12 points of plumbing, very low end kitchen. Painting alone cost $12,000 for 2 coats of Benjamin more + labor. Tile installation is completely over charged at $ 18,000 for 2 bathrooms with 7′ high at shower area, 4′ at walls, a 3′x 4′ floor, plus 430 sq. ft basement. This is a straight tile no special cuts. The demo and cart charges are so ridiculous that I would like to take a sledgehammer myself to knock down the walls and then hire someone to carry it off. Then upon all the charges they charge a General Condition charge of 10 % and a Provide Overhead charge of 10%.

This is a very reputable construction company, which has completed satisfying construction to many, yet $348,000 so far too expensive.

Can anyone recommend a licensed, reputable construction company that is reasonable priced?

By |