The Cost Of Bidding And RFP Responses

Grumpy

That poster brought up a good topic discussing the cost of bidding jobs.

Let's talk specifically about new construction, for those of us who do it. I do very little. bid alot more than I do. I keep my costs down by a) NEVER buying prints, never placing deposites on prints, and never paying the reproduction shop to print me up some prints.

It seems alot of builders balk when I tell them this, obviously unless they are just starting out they already have tradesmen/subcontractors. So what do they need me for? They are keeping their subs honest. The way I look at it, if they are willing to spend the few measely dollars to get a few pages of the plans printed up and sent over, or take the time to meet with me for 30 mins to discuss the job, they are qualified buyers. If they are not willing to spend the money then they are looking for lowest bidder flat out.

Just wondering what you guys do?

kevjob

when I have a project that requires plnas to bid off I provide copies for everybody, I feel that is my job to provide the best plan to bid from.

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Kevin
Basement Finishing Highlands Ranch Colorado
Littleton Colorado, Basement Remodeling
Kitchen Remodeling Denver

Cole

I do the same, but I know on some commercial jobs this is impossible.

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Publisher1

I rightfully got a slap on the wrist for violating this board's tos rules but appreciate the observations here.

My sense is a number of vendors are downloading costs in preparing proposals documentation to the people bidding on the jobs. This could make sense, or be a big mistake. It could make sense if they are being overwelmed by bidders and wish to create some self-screening qualification process (as Craigs list for example, charges for job listings and rentals in some markets -- and makes a small fortune in the process). Or it could be very costly in discouraging qualified bidders, etc.

Today, for example, I met a developer in Ontario whose business is growing rapidly and who would be a real 'catch' for a GC or subtrade -- who essentially told me "bring em on" -- in encouraging additional trades/suppliers to propose business. He has integrity; respects relationships, but wants to keep his costs as low as possible. (He volunteered that he probably should use a special email address to avoid overwhelming his 'in box' with responses.) But later, he might want to build some sort of qualifying screen -- and exempt previous suppliers for whom he has had satisfactory business relationships.

I totally agree with the forum administrators in closing the previous thread on this matter -- I am only posting now because of the response and new thread created by another member here. I can see how what I had attempted could be abused easily, and respect the intent and purpose behind the forum rules.

ultimatetouch

Are you saying in order to bid on a job you must first buy the prints from the builder to review? I have always given them out..then again I am doing some simpler additions and only get a few bids.

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Ultimatetouch
Illinois Remodeling Company, Kitchen Remodeling Chicago, Room Additions Illinois