Estimates will generally be accurate to within about a ten percent variance. If your projected costs total $100 the contractor can reasonably charge you $110 without your having the right to refuse payment. Most contractors aren’t unscrupulous and will stick to their original estimate when possible.

The best way to approach a Chicago home improvement or remodeling project is to ask several contractors for estimates. This holds true for new or add-on construction as well. With several estimates in hand you can easily compare them to determine the cheapest rate at which you can get the job done.

Getting several estimates isn’t difficult. The problem is that sometimes you’re trying to compare apples and oranges by using only the bottom line dollar. Some contractors are professionals in every sense of the word. They’re honest, use the best materials, build or remodel to code, and give you excellent results. These contractors may be more expensive than their counterparts. Some Chicago contractors are just the opposite. They’ll cut corners to save a dime, provide inferior workmanship, and charge you every penny they can. Because of the short-cut mentality their pricing may be low but you’ll get what you pay for.

Get several contractor estimates for every project.

Begin with contractors you know and trust. A prior relationship with the contractor can get you the lowest possible price and great workmanship. This person would like to work for you every chance he gets and is willing to earn your repeat business.
Expand your horizons and ask your friends or acquaintances for referrals. Contact these contractors, let them know how you got their names, and ask for their estimates.