Modern Craftsman 380 How We Actually Price a Job
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Oct 26, 2025 They break down the real process of pricing work, from takeoffs and line-item estimates to assigning scopes and catching costly specs. They discuss using AI as an assistant, where automation helps and where human judgment wins. Site protection, allowances, and who owns scope gaps get practical attention. They also cover client fit, non-negotiables, and how expectations shape cost.
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Build Estimates Line-By-Line
- Measure plans, extract notes, and build the estimate line-by-line from top to bottom using takeoff tools and an Excel master sheet.
- Share assumptions and walk the client through your rough budget live so expectations align early.
AI Gives Averages, Not Your Product
- AI averages cumulative data which can be more accurate than a single human but will reflect an 'average' product, not your premium offering.
- Use AI to speed tasks, not as a black box that replaces judgment about quality expectations.
Give Clients A Budget Range Early
- Use conditional questionnaires to give clients a quick budget range by asking 20–30 targeted parameters up front.
- Present the assumed spec and list obvious upcharges so clients see what the range includes and excludes.