General Contractor Estimates: Guide to Accurate Project Bidding

When planning a construction project, whether residential or commercial, one of the most important steps is getting general contractor estimates. These estimates are essential for budgeting, comparing bids, and ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

At Real Estimate Services, we provide accurate and professional cost estimating solutions tailored to contractors, builders, and property owners.

What Are General Contractor Estimates?

General contractor estimates are detailed cost projections provided by a general contractor for a construction project. These estimates typically include:

Labor and subcontractor costs
Materials and equipment
Permits and inspections
Overhead and profit margins
Contingency for risks or unexpected costs

Getting an accurate estimate early can prevent budget overruns and set the stage for successful construction planning.

What’s Included in a General Contractor Estimate?

A comprehensive general contractor estimate should cover:

Scope of Work
– Defines the entire project from start to finish.
Material Takeoffs
– A breakdown of all building materials needed, including quantity and cost.
Labor Costs
– Wages, hours, and roles of workers involved (including subcontractors).
Project Timeline
– Schedule for different construction phases.
Cost Summary
– Total projected cost with breakdowns and itemized pricing.
Terms and Conditions
– Payment schedule, warranties, and other legal requirements.

Tools and Templates for General Contractor Estimates

Many contractors use estimating software or templates to streamline the process. Some popular tools include:

At Real Estimate Services, we offer customized templates and detailed material/labor takeoffs to help general contractors prepare competitive and accurate bids.

Why Accurate Estimates Matter

Avoid Over/Underbidding
Win More Contracts
Control Project Costs
Increase Client Trust
Prevent Delays

Inaccurate estimates can result in disputes, financial loss, and project delays—none of which contractors can afford.

How We Help

Our team at Real Estimate Services specializes in:

Estimating for residential, commercial, and industrial projects
Accurate material and labor takeoffs
Cost-saving recommendations
Bid-ready documentation for contractors

Whether you’re building from the ground up or handling renovations, we support your estimating needs with precision and speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a general contractor estimate?

It depends on the project size. Small jobs may take 1–2 days; larger projects can take up to a week.

Can I compare estimates from different contractors?

Yes. Always request multiple bids and compare scope, pricing, and included services.

Do you offer estimates for subcontractors too?

Absolutely. We provide detailed takeoffs for plumbers, electricians, framers, and other trades.

Get Your Estimate Today

Don’t leave your next project to guesswork. Get a precise, professional general contractor estimate with support from Real Estimate Services. Let us help you bid smarter, build faster, and win more work.