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A preliminary estimate represents an original cost approximation made during the early planning phase of a construction project. People call it an abstract cost estimate, approximate cost, or budget estimate. This estimation type depends on limited information available during the project&#39;s conceptual stage.Preliminary estimates work like a quick financial snapshot based on preliminary designs, rough sketches, or conceptual drawings. They provide a general overview without needing extensive data or deep analysis, unlike more detailed estimates that come later.You can think of preliminary estimates as your project&#39;s financial feasibility test, a quick calculation that shows if the construction concept deserves more time and resources. They answer a basic question: &quot;Can we afford this project?&quot;<h3>When to Use Preliminary Estimate</h3>Preliminary estimates work best during the earliest project phases. You&#39;ll need them:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>During conceptual/initiation phases - Your project exists mainly as an idea or concept</li><li value=2>Before detailed design documents - Complete drawings aren&#39;t available yet</li><li value=3>For feasibility studies - You need to decide if a project deserves more attention</li><li value=4>For initial budgeting - You must establish rough financial parameters</li><li value=5>For financing discussions - You need to figure out funding requirements</li></ul>Project owners make informed decisions about financial feasibility using preliminary estimates before they commit substantial resources. These estimates help secure early financial commitment from stakeholders and guide architects and engineers about predicted project costs.Preliminary estimates also help spot potential risks and challenges early in your project. This allows teams to develop proactive risk management strategies before making significant investments.<h3>Accuracy of Preliminary Estimate</h3>Preliminary estimates vary in accuracy based on available information and estimator expertise. They carry more uncertainty than later estimation methods because they rely on limited data.The American Society of Professional Estimators places preliminary estimates in the &quot;Order of Magnitude&quot; or &quot;Schematic Design&quot; categories for accuracy. The typical accuracy range includes:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>-25% to +75% according to PMBOK standards</li><li value=2>-10% to +20% according to some construction specialists</li><li value=3>+/-50% according to alternative industry standards</li></ul>This variance means a $100,000 preliminary estimate might result in actual costs between $75,000 and $175,000 based on PMBOK standards. That&#39;s why teams should present preliminary estimates as ranges rather than single figures.Your estimates become more refined as the project moves forward and more details emerge. The accuracy improves during detailed design and planning phases, eventually giving way to more precise calculations.<h3>Example of Preliminary Estimate</h3>Let&#39;s see how preliminary estimates work in real life:Picture yourself planning a new office building. You start with just a rough concept and approximate square footage. Your preliminary estimate would need you to:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>Research similar projects - Check costs of recently finished office buildings of similar size and quality</li><li value=2>Calculate based on square footage - Multiply planned square footage by standard office building cost factors</li><li value=3>Consider geographical factors - Factor in location-specific costs</li><li value=4>Apply appropriate contingency - Add a buffer for uncertainties at this early stage</li></ol>To cite an instance, similar 10,000 sq. ft. office buildings in your region might cost $200 per square foot. Your preliminary estimate calculation would be:10,000 sq. ft. × $200/sq. ft. = $2,000,000 base estimateUsing a preliminary estimate accuracy range of -25% to +75%, you&#39;d present this as:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Low range: $1,500,000 (75% of base)</li><li value=2>High range: $3,500,000 (175% of base)</li></ul>App development projects also benefit from preliminary estimates. Teams look at previous apps with similar features to estimate development time and calculate costs for design, engineering, and marketing. This creates a ROM (Rough Order of Magnitude) estimate ranging from 20 hours over two weeks for $1,000 to 200 hours over two months for $10,000.Experienced teams make use of templates and past project information. Their knowledge of comparable projects helps improve estimate accuracy despite limited information.Building estimates often employ a simple formula: building type × square foot cost × total square footage. Schools might use a specific rate per square foot multiplied by the total project area. High-rise projects sometimes calculate floor cost multiplied by floor count.Preliminary estimates serve their core purpose well. They give you enough financial insight to make smart decisions about project viability without wasting resources on projects that won&#39;t work financially.

Preliminary Estimate

Simple cost projections evolve into detailed estimates that are the foundations of construction financial planning. Projects need these complete calculations as they move from concept to concrete plans.<h3>Detailed Estimate Definition</h3>A detailed estimate breaks down all predicted costs linked to a construction project. This type of estimate needs complete design documents and specifications to produce accurate results, unlike earlier estimation methods.Detailed estimates go way beyond simple calculations and divide costs into clear categories:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Materials: Costs for all construction materials based on quantity takeoffs from project drawings</li><li value=2>Labor: Wages and benefits for all workers involved, calculated by hours and rates</li><li value=3>Equipment: Machinery and tools expenses, including rental or purchase costs</li><li value=4>Subcontractor Services: Fees for specialized work performed by subcontractors</li><li value=5>Additional Costs: Expenses for permits, inspections, transportation, and site-specific requirements</li></ul>This approach gives precise financial planning by breaking down a project into its smallest parts. Detailed estimates show a clearer picture of total project costs than preliminary calculations.<h3>When to Use Detailed Estimate</h3>Your construction timeline has specific points where detailed estimates matter. You should use them:After design completion - Once your design package is fully completed For bid verification - To check contractor figures in lump sum or negotiated fee projects During construction - To track costs throughout the construction phaseThese estimates create the groundwork for key project activities:Contract negotiation - These estimates help negotiate contracts with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers Resource allocation - They help distribute and manage resources throughout the project lifecycle Financial planning - Detailed estimates show clear financial requirements that aid decision-makingDesign-bid-build projects use detailed estimates to prepare the bid estimate and set the contract price and budget. Construction manager/general contractor (CM/GC) projects use them to aid price negotiation between the general contractor and owner.These estimates keep providing value during construction by helping:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Prepare pricing for change orders</li><li value=2>Forecast estimate cost to complete</li><li value=3>Project final costs and profit</li></ul><h3>Accuracy of Detailed Estimate</h3>Detailed estimates stand out from earlier estimation methods because of their precision. The American Society of Professional Estimators classifies detailed estimates as Class 3 (Design Development Estimate). They improve accuracy by a lot compared to preliminary estimates.Standard accuracy ranges for detailed estimates include:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>-5% to +10% according to standard industry practices</li><li value=2>-3% to +15% according to some construction specialists</li></ul>A $100,000 project cost prediction would likely end up between $95,000 and $110,000 based on standard practices. This narrow range shows why detailed estimates become more valuable as projects move forward.Better accuracy comes from several factors:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>Complete design documents provide precise material quantities</li><li value=2>Detailed specifications enable accurate unit cost determinations</li><li value=3>Labor requirements can be calculated based on specific project elements</li><li value=4>Equipment needs are clearly defined by project scope</li></ol>In spite of that, detailed estimates still need contingency allowances. Construction professionals usually add 5-10% of the overall project cost as contingency for unforeseen issues, waste, damage, scope changes, or weather events.<h3>Example of Detailed Estimate</h3>Here&#39;s a real example of how detailed estimates work for a commercial building project:The estimator first reviews completed construction drawings and specifications. They determine exact material requirements through quantity takeoffs:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>Materials Calculation:</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=2><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>15,000 square feet of drywall at $1.75/sq ft = $26,250</li><li value=2>125 gallons of paint at $35/gallon = $4,375</li><li value=3>3,500 square feet of flooring at $4.50/sq ft = $15,750</li></ul></li><li value=2>Labor Assessment:</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=3><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Drywall installation: 450 labor hours at $35/hour = $15,750</li><li value=2>Painting: 200 labor hours at $32/hour = $6,400</li><li value=3>Flooring installation: 175 labor hours at $40/hour = $7,000</li></ul></li><li value=3>Equipment Costs:</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=4><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Scissor lift rental: 14 days at $150/day = $2,100</li><li value=2>Material handling equipment: $1,850</li><li value=3>Specialty tools: $950</li></ul></li><li value=4>Subcontractor Services:</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=5><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Electrical work: $45,000</li><li value=2>Plumbing: $38,500</li><li value=3>HVAC installation: $62,000</li></ul></li><li value=5>Additional Costs:</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=6><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Permits and inspections: $3,800</li><li value=2>Site preparation: $12,500</li><li value=3>Waste removal: $4,500</li></ul></li></ol>The estimator adds a 7% contingency after compiling these itemized costs. This creates a complete financial blueprint that&#39;s more reliable than early-stage estimates.Masonry contractors might break down a brick wall&#39;s costs by calculating expenses for the foundation, support structure, materials, and labor. This detailed approach shows exactly where project money goes.Smart estimators track progress against original estimates regularly. They update calculations based on real-time data. These ongoing adjustments help manage expectations and shift resources as needed.Detailed estimates are the financial backbone of successful construction projects. Their completeness and accuracy make them great tools for contractors and project owners. They help with realistic budgeting, quick resource management, and active cost control throughout construction.

Detailed Estimate

Quantity estimates bridge the gap between project planning and execution. They create a vital link between abstract designs and physical construction. A detailed breakdown of materials and labor helps ensure budget accuracy.<h3>Quantity Estimate Definition</h3>A quantity estimate, also known as a quantity takeoff, measures all materials and labor needed to finish a construction project. These estimates focus on measuring a project&#39;s work through small work items, unlike other estimate types.Quantity takeoffs play a significant role in construction&#39;s decision-making process. They help teams understand a project&#39;s scope and requirements. The process breaks down projects into smaller, measurable sections.Estimators review drawings and plans to list everything needed to complete the project. They measure materials in several ways:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Count: Individual items like wall studs, light fixtures, and doorknobs</li><li value=2>Area: Flooring, drywall, and roofing calculated by square foot</li><li value=3>Volume: Concrete, sand, and paint measured by cubic foot or yard</li><li value=4>Length: Lumber, conduit, and wire listed by linear foot or yard</li></ul>People often mix up quantity estimates with material takeoffs. Material takeoffs only cover materials needed for purchase. Quantity takeoffs include materials and everything else needed to complete the project successfully.<h3>When to Use Quantity Estimate</h3>Quantity estimates matter at every project phase. They become vital during preconstruction when teams need realistic contracts with accurate information.Teams employ quantity estimates:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>During project planning - Early stages need cost calculations and material requirements</li><li value=2>For bidding preparation - Creating accurate and competitive bids</li><li value=3>For procurement management - Ordering exact material quantities to avoid waste</li><li value=4>For resource planning - Scheduling labor and equipment effectively</li><li value=5>For cost control - Tracking construction costs precisely</li></ol>The core team handling quantity takeoffs includes architects, contractors, cost estimators, and engineers. Each member brings unique expertise to the process.Quantity estimates help with value engineering by comparing different material options. Teams can balance cost and quality better. Project managers can maintain budget control throughout construction by forecasting upcoming costs.<h3>Accuracy of Quantity Estimate</h3>A project&#39;s success depends heavily on accurate quantity estimates. Precise takeoffs reflect in overall construction costs. Poor estimates can affect the entire construction chain.Several elements shape estimate accuracy:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Data quality - Collection methods and analysis can make or break a project</li><li value=2>Estimator skill - Takeoffs need specialized data management skills</li><li value=3>Measurement precision - Exact measurements from drawings and plans</li><li value=4>Technology use - Digital takeoffs work better than manual ones</li></ul>Digital methods have changed the takeoff process. Yet skilled cost estimators remain irreplaceable. Digital estimation works 3-4 times faster than manual takeoffs.The American Society of Professional Estimators groups construction cost estimates into five accuracy levels. Quantity estimates usually fall in more precise categories because they use detailed drawings and specifications.Accurate takeoffs leave room for unexpected costs while helping teams plan labor, equipment, and materials. This detail makes budgets more realistic and prevents cost overruns.<h3>Example of Quantity Estimate</h3>Here&#39;s a concrete garage slab example to show quantity estimates in action:A contractor needs to pour a concrete slab for a garage that will be 20 feet by 30 feet and 6 inches thick.Calculating Materials:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>Concrete Volume</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=2><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Convert dimensions to feet = 20 ft (length) × 30 ft (width) × 0.5 ft (thickness)</li><li value=2>Calculate volume: 20 × 30 × 0.5 = 300 cubic feet</li><li value=3>Convert to cubic yards (standard concrete measurement): 300 ÷ 27 = 11.11 cubic yards</li></ul></li><li value=2>Rebar</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=3><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Spacing rebar at 18 inches apart in both directions</li><li value=2>For 20 ft length (rebar every 1.5 ft): 20 ÷ 1.5 = 13.33 (round to 14 pieces)</li><li value=3>For 30 ft width (rebar every 1.5 ft): 30 ÷ 1.5 = 20 pieces</li><li value=4>Total length needed: (14 × 30) + (20 × 20) = 420 + 400 = 820 feet of rebar</li></ul></li></ol>Calculating Labor:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Five workers can pour and finish 10 cubic yards of concrete daily</li><li value=2>11.11 cubic yards takes slightly more than one day</li><li value=3>Allow for finishing and delays: 2 days</li><li value=4>Total labor: 5 workers × 2 days = 10 worker-days</li></ul>A complete quantity takeoff includes:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Concrete: 11.11 cubic yards</li><li value=2>Rebar: 820 feet</li><li value=3>Labor: 10 worker-days</li></ul>Another example shows a carpenter redoing a home&#39;s interior. The standard rate is $10.00 per square foot for interior work surfaces. A 100,000-square-foot home would cost $100,000,000 based on the square-foot rate.These examples show how quantity estimates break projects into manageable pieces and calculate exact material needs. This detailed approach shows where project money goes and prevents waste.Quantity estimates shape budgetary decisions and help clients choose contractors. A contractor&#39;s ability to produce accurate takeoffs shows their efficiency and helps win more bids. Projects run smoothly with fewer delays from cost overruns when estimates are precise.

Quantity Estimate

The construction industry&#39;s competitive landscape makes bid estimates crucial for contractors who want to secure projects. These detailed offers connect cost projections with contractual commitments.<h3>Bid Estimate Definition</h3>A bid estimate serves as a formal offer from a contractor or subcontractor to perform specific construction services <a href="https://www.cmu.edu/cee/projects/PMbook/05_Cost_Estimation.html">at a stated price within a defined timeframe</a>. Unlike preliminary or detailed estimates that serve planning purposes, bid estimates become legally binding commitments once the client accepts them.A bid estimate has these detailed components:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Project scope and specifications</li><li value=2>Cost breakdowns for materials and labor</li><li value=3>Equipment requirements and associated expenses</li><li value=4>Proposed timeline for completion</li><li value=5>Terms and conditions of the work agreement</li></ul>Many people get confused about the difference between estimates and bids. An estimate just approximates project costs based on available information and stays non-binding. A bid, however, works as a fixed, contractual offer that locks in price and project scope after acceptance.Bid estimates usually come from three main approaches:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>Subcontractor quotations</li><li value=2>Quantity takeoffs</li><li value=3>Construction procedures analysis</li></ol>These documents show both the contractor&#39;s actual cost calculations and their strategic aim to win the job, which can influence the preparation effort.<h3>When to Use Bid Estimate</h3>Bid estimates work best in specific construction scenarios that need formal proposals. You should use them:For competitive bidding processes - Multiple contractors compete for the same project, especially government jobs or large construction venturesIn response to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) - You need to formally respond to client-issued RFPs that outline desired project parametersFor short-term projects with clear requirements - These projects let you produce and assess overall costs quicklyDuring preliminary project stages - You can help clients plan their budgets effectivelyBidding typically follows two main paths: open bids (common in public sector work where qualified contractors can participate) or invited bids (common in private projects where owners pick shortlisted firms based on reputation and track record).Construction companies should think about several internal factors before submitting bids:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Capacity to complete work within schedule</li><li value=2>Skilled labor and equipment availability</li><li value=3>Current project commitments</li><li value=4>Cash flow requirements</li><li value=5>Past working relationships with client or architect</li></ul><h3>Accuracy of Bid Estimate</h3>Accurate bid estimates shape a construction company&#39;s financial future. They directly affect both winning projects and staying profitable.Companies with realistic cost estimates gain two key advantages:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>They understand potential project profitability better</li><li value=2>They can secure projects where they feel confident about outcomes</li></ol>Poor estimates can lead to risky outcomes:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Winning projects that hurt company finances</li><li value=2>Missing profitable opportunities</li></ul>Accuracy means more than just getting the numbers right. Clients don&#39;t always pick the lowest bidder. They often choose contractors who show the best understanding of their project through detailed, realistic proposals.Contractors who build a reputation for honest estimates and efficient work tend to win more bids. This reputation creates more opportunities over time.Creating competitive construction bids takes significant resources. One estimate might need hundreds of staff hours, making accuracy crucial. Mistakes in understanding scope or pricing can create unbalanced bids that either lose jobs or win them at a loss.<h3>Example of Bid Estimate</h3>Here&#39;s a real-world example of how bid estimates work for a municipal building renovation:A construction company gets an RFP to renovate a 5,000-square-foot government office building. After checking drawings, specifications, and site conditions, they prepare a bid estimate with:<ol class="list-number"><li value=1>Project Summary</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=2><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Scope: Complete renovation of interior spaces</li><li value=2>Timeline: 120 days from notice to proceed</li><li value=3>Total Bid Price: $875,000</li></ul></li><li value=2>Cost Breakdown</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=3><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Direct Construction Costs: $725,000</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=2><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Materials: $325,000</li><li value=2>Labor: $275,000</li><li value=3>Equipment: $125,000</li></ul></li><li value=2>Indirect Costs: $75,000</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=3><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Site supervision: $40,000</li><li value=2>Administrative overhead: $35,000</li></ul></li><li value=3>Profit Margin: $75,000 (10% of direct + indirect costs)</li></ul></li><li value=3>Qualification Statement</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=4><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Previous similar projects completed</li><li value=2>The core team assigned</li><li value=3>Quality control procedures</li><li value=4>Safety record</li></ul></li><li value=4>Terms and Conditions</li><li class="nestedListItem" value=5><ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>Payment schedule</li><li value=2>Change order procedures</li><li value=3>Warranty information</li></ul></li></ol>This formal submission stands apart from other estimate types by including legal language that makes it binding upon acceptance. The bid includes subcontractor quotes, material supplier pricing, and the contractor&#39;s markup for overhead and profit.Another example shows a project to supply flat tubes of different diameters. Two bidders might give different costs per roll with varying supply timeframes. Clients can then assess both pricing and delivery schedules.Bid estimates differ from proposals in some construction contexts. A bid focuses on the price offered for specific work. A proposal offers a more detailed document that has quotes from suppliers, subcontractor proposals, labor cost estimates, taxes, overhead calculations, and profit markup.Submitted bids can&#39;t be changed, which makes accuracy essential. Well-prepared bids need to be precise and professional with clear breakdowns of estimates, timeframes, and project deliverables.Construction companies can win suitable projects through careful bid estimate preparation while avoiding financial risks from inaccurate pricing.

Bid Estimate

After parties sign contracts and construction starts, control estimates become crucial to financial management. These estimates help track costs from start to finish and provide continuous oversight throughout the project.<h3>Control Estimate Definition</h3>A control estimate projects financial costs for a project, particularly in construction. Unlike other estimates, teams create control estimates after the owner/client and contractor fully sign the contract.Control estimates have three main components:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>The budget estimate for financing</li><li value=2>The budgeted cost after contracting but before construction</li><li value=3>The estimated cost to complete during the project</li></ul>These financial plans help assess construction costs as work progresses. Control estimates change often to match approved customer change orders and actual construction costs.<h3>When to Use Control Estimate</h3>Control estimates work best at specific project stages. They set up the financial framework right after contract signing but before construction begins. They also track spending throughout the building process.Teams should use control estimates:<ul class="list-bullet"><li value=1>After finalizing contracts with all parties</li><li value=2>Before construction activities begin</li><li value=3>Throughout the building process to monitor costs</li><li value=4>To prepare pricing for change orders</li><li value=5>To forecast final costs and profit</li></ul>Project managers on big projects use control estimates to adjust budgets, negotiate with suppliers, or change schedules if material prices shift unexpectedly. This makes them valuable tools for handling changing conditions.<h3>Accuracy of Control Estimate</h3>Several key factors affect how precise control estimates can be. Data quality, clear project scope, and budget limits play crucial roles. Teams must update these estimates often to reflect project changes and keep them accurate.Control estimates belong to Class 3 estimates with accuracy ranges from -10% to -20% on the low end to +10% to +30% on the high end. This makes them more reliable than early estimates but they still need careful monitoring.Control estimates should never go beyond the original Guaranteed Maximum Price. Well-prepared estimates also include extra funds for unexpected issues.<h3>Example of Control Estimate</h3>A construction company prepares a control estimate before starting a new building project. This estimate includes costs for materials, labor, and permits based on current market rates.Contractors working on renovation projects update their control estimates to reflect delays and extra costs from design changes. This helps manage expectations and move resources where needed.Highway expansion projects use control estimates to track spending on asphalt and labor costs. Supply chain problems might drive up material prices, so the control estimate lets managers adjust their financial plans.Teams must record all subcontracts, purchase orders, and cost commitments that affect project costs. This detailed tracking lets them compare actual spending against earlier projections and maintain financial discipline throughout construction.

Control Estimate

Construction projects need different types of estimates that act as financial markers at every stage. These estimates evolve from rough calculations to detailed financial plans.Preliminary estimates act as your original financial compass when your project is just an idea. They might be rough with accuracy ranges from -25% to +75%, but they answer a basic question: &quot;Can we afford this project?&quot;Detailed estimates come into play once you complete your design package. These breakdowns offer tighter accuracy ranges (-5% to +10%) and create a reliable financial base to build your project.Quantity estimates connect designs to actual construction by calculating exact material and labor needs. This approach cuts waste and shows exactly where the money goes.Bid estimates turn projections into binding contracts before construction starts. These formal offers set prices and project scope in stone. Accuracy becomes crucial to win projects and stay profitable.Control estimates keep track of spending throughout construction. Project managers can adapt to changes and make smart adjustments as work moves forward.Knowing these estimate types helps you pick the right financial tool when you need it. Your project grows more precise as it moves from concept to completion, and your estimates follow the same path. Each type builds on what came before and gets more accurate as new information comes in.Contractors who become skilled at these estimation methods gain an edge over competitors. They create accurate financial projections that lead to smoother projects with fewer surprises and better relationships with clients.Success in construction depends on predicting costs accurately. Using the right estimate type at each phase creates a strong foundation to control budgets and manage resources. This knowledge and a professional <a href="https://cortex-dm.com/">construction drawing management software</a> help turn potentially chaotic projects into well-arranged builds where clear financial understanding guides decisions from start to finish.

Conclusion

Do you know which types of construction estimates you need for your next project? Budget disasters and painful client conversations happen when you get this wrong.

Construction cost estimates don't follow a one-size-fits-all approach. The American Society of Professional Estimators recognizes five main types of construction cost estimates that differ in detail and accuracy. Your choice matters at each project stage - from quick calculations based on past projects to detailed unit-price breakdowns that examine all project expenses.

Construction management's different estimate types serve unique purposes throughout your project's lifecycle. A preliminary estimate provides a rough cost overview with available data. Conceptual estimates take just minutes to prepare with basic research. Square foot estimates give you more depth and take several hours to create. Unit price estimates are the most reliable but just need extensive research to deliver accurate numbers.

This matters because each estimate type fits perfectly into your construction timeline. You can save time, money and avoid mistakes that get pricey by knowing exactly when to use order of magnitude estimates during early planning versus a construction bid estimate before the bidding process begins.