Preliminary Estimate Services: Fast, Floor-Area Based Cost Forecasts
What do we deliver? A professional preliminary estimate: a floor-area based cost forecast with a quantity breakdown, material and labor costs, man-hours, contingency and a project schedule. We prepare it from your sketches or concept plans in 24–72 hours, so you can budget, secure financing and brief your architect with confidence.
- 24–72 hr turnaround
- Starting at $199
- Residential & commercial
- Worldwide
What Is a Preliminary Estimate?
A preliminary estimate (also called a conceptual or order-of-magnitude estimate) predicts the probable cost of a project before the design is finished. Instead of counting every nail, we use floor area, linear measurements and data from similar past projects to produce a reliable budget number early.
It is the first step before a full construction takeoff and a detailed cost estimate, and it is a key tool for owners, developers, architects and contractors.
Typical accuracy
Expect a range of roughly ±15–20% at this stage. As drawings develop, we refine the estimate to a bid-ready level.
Explore all services →How Can Our Preliminary Estimate Benefit You?
Our estimates help you evaluate the initial cost and support you in:
- 1
Managing the budget and getting loans
Banks and lenders want a credible cost figure.
- 2
Setting the cost limit for architects and designers
Keep the design inside the budget from day one.
- 3
Knowing probable material and labor cost
Get an early idea of amounts and cost.
- 4
Planning the next phase
Move confidently into design and procurement.
- 5
Allocating and negotiating with contractors and subcontractors
Negotiate from facts, not guesses.
How Can You Quote a Preliminary Estimate to Your Prospective Clients?
Our preliminary cost estimates are based on the floor area, which makes the numbers easy for your clients and architects to understand and interpret. Add our report to your proposal and present a professional, white-label-ready budget. Our bill of material comprises:
- The total area (square foot or square meter) of the complete project
- Linear measurement (foot or meter) of each structure, such as walls
- Area of each unit, i.e. rooms, floors, etc.
What Do You Get in Our Preliminary Estimate?
The estimate consists of a breakdown of quantities, and the following divisions are considered:
| Division | CSI MasterFormat | Line items |
|---|---|---|
| Preliminaries | Div. 01 General Requirements | Mobilization, site setup, supervision, temporary works |
| Substructures | Div. 02, 03 Existing Conditions, Concrete | Footings, foundations, slab on grade |
| Superstructures | Div. 04–08 Masonry, Metals, Wood, Thermal & Moisture, Openings | Brickwork, walls, sidings, roofs, staircase, floors, doors, windows |
| External / Internal finishes | Div. 09 Finishes | Flooring, drywall, painting |
| Fittings | Div. 10–12 Specialties, Equipment, Furnishings | Cabinets, millwork, built-ins |
| Mechanical | Div. 23 HVAC | Mechanical, HVAC systems, ductwork |
| Plumbing | Div. 22 Plumbing | Pipes, drains, fixtures |
| Electrical | Div. 26–28 Electrical, Communications | Cable, conduit, lighting |
| Labor, man-hours, contingency, schedule | Cost summary | Labor cost, total man-hours, contingency allowance, project schedule |
Assumptions
- Priced from concept plans or sketches
- Standard soil and normal site access
- Rates adjusted for time, location and size
- Mid-grade finishes unless specified
Exclusions
- Land cost, permits and impact fees
- Design and engineering fees
- Landscaping, furniture and appliances
- Financing costs and taxes
How Do We Prepare a Preliminary Estimate?
- First, our estimators study and evaluate the information to analyze the scope of the project and produce an estimating plan.
- Then, the data of similar past projects is collected.
- Adjustments are applied with respect to time, location, and size. A contingency is also applied.
- All the specifications, adjustments and assumptions are mentioned in detail.
Software and databases we use
- Bluebeam
- PlanSwift
- RSMeans data
- Quest Estimating
- Trimble
Plans are measured digitally, then priced against RSMeans cost data and adjusted with local labor and material rates. Need a trade-level number next? See our estimating trades.
Download a Free Sample Preliminary Estimate (PDF)
See exactly what you will receive: a client-safe example for a 2,400 sq ft home with a cost breakdown by division, labor, man-hours, schedule, assumptions and exclusions. All figures are illustrative.
⬇ Download Sample PDFTurnaround Time and Price Range
Most preliminary estimates are delivered within three business days. Rush delivery is available on request.
Final price depends on project size and complexity. See our pricing page for details.
Half upfront to begin, the balance when the estimate is complete.
Our Process in 4 Simple Steps
Send your plans
Email drawings, sketches or a project brief through our contact page.
Get a quote
We review the scope and send a proposal with fee and timeline.
We prepare the estimate
Our estimators measure, price and apply adjustments and contingency.
Delivery
Receive your estimate by email or through our website, with free clarifications.
Preliminary Estimate FAQs
What is the difference between a preliminary estimate and a detailed estimate?
A preliminary estimate uses floor area and historical data to forecast cost early in design. A detailed estimate is built from a full quantity takeoff of completed drawings and is used for bidding.
How accurate is a preliminary estimate?
It is typically within roughly ±15–20%, depending on how much design information is available. Accuracy improves as plans are developed.
What do I need to send for a preliminary estimate?
Send a concept plan, sketch, or even a simple brief with total floor area, number of floors, location and finish level. The more detail you share, the tighter the estimate.
Can I use a preliminary estimate to get a loan?
Yes. Lenders and investors commonly ask for a budget estimate. Our report includes quantities, contingency and assumptions that support loan applications.
Does the preliminary estimate include contingency?
Yes. A contingency allowance is applied and clearly shown, along with all adjustments for time, location and size.
How fast can you deliver a preliminary estimate?
Most projects are delivered within 24–72 hours of receiving your plans and approving the quote.
Ready for Your Preliminary Estimate?
Send us your plans or sketches today and receive a clear, floor-area based budget in 24–72 hours.
- 24–72 hr delivery
- Worldwide service
- Residential & commercial
