Real Estate Investor Estimating

We can produce a budget from photos and a room count, but it will be flagged as assumptions-based. We use typical dimensions for similar layouts and note every assumption in the log. This is common for wholesalers or investors who need a quick number before bidding. The estimate will have a higher contingency line to cover unknowns. For a more accurate takeoff, we recommend a measured sketch or a walkthrough video with a tape measure.

Yes. If you provide your lender's draw milestones, we can group line items accordingly. For example, we can combine all demolition and dumpster pulls into a 'demo draw' and all rough MEP into a 'systems draw'. This helps your draw requests align with the work completed. We can also provide a separate summary sheet that maps CSI divisions to draw stages.

We apply waste factors as separate lines so you can see the allowance. For LVP and laminate, we use 5–10% depending on layout complexity. For tile, we use 10–15% for cuts and breakage. Carpet is typically 5–10% for seams and pattern matching. These factors are based on industry standards and your project's specific conditions. We adjust them if the plan shows many angles or small rooms.

No, permit fees and impact fees are soft costs that we exclude from the construction estimate. We recommend carrying them as a separate line in your pro forma. However, we do include permit-driven scope items like egress windows, GFCI outlets, and handrails if they are required by code. We flag these as a separate group so you can see the cost impact of code compliance.

We price replacement of outdated systems as separate line items. For electrical, we count panel upgrades, meter bases, and new circuits in EA. For plumbing, we count water heaters, fixtures, and supply/drain repairs in LF. For HVAC, we size equipment in TON and count ducts in LF. If the existing system can be reused, we note that as an option. We also flag code-required upgrades like GFCI and AFCI.

Most investor projects come back in 24–48 hours. Rush turnaround is available for an additional fee. The timeline depends on the completeness of your documents. If we have full plans and a scope list, we can start immediately. If we need to make assumptions from photos, we may need a day to compile the assumption log. We prioritize projects with closing deadlines.

Yes. We can price multiple finish packages—builder-grade, mid-grade, and resale-grade—so you can compare the cost delta. For example, we can show the difference between LVP and engineered wood, or laminate and quartz countertops. This helps you match the package to your exit strategy and target ARV. We provide a side-by-side comparison in Excel.

We include a contingency line, typically 10–15% for flips, to cover hidden conditions. This is separate from any repair line items we can measure from photos or plans. If you have inspection reports or photos showing damage, we can add specific repair quantities. Otherwise, the contingency is your risk buffer. We recommend a higher contingency for older homes or properties with deferred maintenance.

Yes. The PDF deliverable includes a marked-up plan set showing where each quantity was measured. We highlight areas and dimension key items so you can verify the takeoff. This is useful when comparing our numbers to a contractor's bid or explaining the scope to your lender. The marked-up set is organized by CSI division for easy reference.

We handle turnover scopes as well. The takeoff focuses on paint, flooring, fixtures, and minor repairs. We separate turnover items from capital items so you can decide what to repair now and what to defer. For example, we might list carpet replacement as a turnover item and roof replacement as a capital item. This helps you manage cash flow and maintenance budgets.

Yes. We use ZIP-code-adjusted pricing from RSMeans data, so we can estimate projects anywhere in the U.S. We also account for regional labor rates and material availability. For projects in states with specific code amendments, we flag potential differences and recommend confirming with the local building department. We have experience with projects in Texas, California, Florida, New York, and North Carolina.

We exclude owner-furnished materials from the material cost but include labor for installation. We list them as separate line items with a note that the material is owner-supplied. This ensures your budget reflects the labor and any associated accessories. We can also include a material allowance if you prefer to have a complete number.

Yes. We deliver outsourced investor estimating for fix and flip projects using your construction documents or photos. We perform a quantity takeoff in PlanSwift, price with RSMeans data, and organize by CSI division. You receive Excel and PDF files with marked-up plans. Turnaround is 24–48 hours for most projects. We flag addendum items and code triggers like IBC or ADA standards that may affect scope.

Our real estate takeoff services include a full material takeoff and labor quantities for your rehab scope. We measure in units your subs bid in, such as cubic yards for concrete or square feet for finishes. Each line is CSI-coded and ZIP-adjusted. We also provide a bid package format for request for proposal pricing. Deliverables are Excel and PDF with marked-up plans. We note any assumptions and exclusions.

For investor bid estimating across multiple properties, we maintain consistent formats so you can compare projects side by side. Each estimate includes a lump sum and line-item breakdown. We track change order potential and flag due diligence items like code upgrades. We use the same takeoff software and pricing basis for each property. Turnaround remains 24–48 hours per project, with rush options available.