new build pricing

[jam2020]

hi all,
ive just been given a set off plans to 24 flats for pricing.now ive only really been out on my own for a couple of months and never had to price anything like this. any advice? was thinking per point but what would you think is about right? obviously want the job but without being greedy/overpriced as this is with a fair sized building company. all advice gratefully received.

jamie

 

[bugsy]

You need to produce a schedule of rates for each component of the works, if you havent got estimating software it may take some time but will benefit you in the long if you are asked to extras and also presenting your valuations

 

[Spudnik]

You WILL need to employ help, as the time scales will be very tight and the rest of the trades will not want to be held up.

 

[Octopus]

Have you got a local "mate" with more experience you could work with and do the bid together?

Imagine getting all the timings and costing wrong on the 1st flat and then having to do the other 23 because you bid is set in stone!

 

[stuylangford]

Exactly the same happened to me Jam.The way I looked at it was long term.I priced to make sure I got the job and make a small profit.Rang JTL and took on an apprentice who had worked elsewhere for a year so more or less knew what to do.Done the first couple of flats with him then left him on site permanent.You make more money as the apprentice is a fraction of your costs,he gets really good experience and if anything is urgent he is there.There is also the lobbys,hallways etc which im guessing are not in your quote so you can make more on these.As soon as the flats im doing are finished another lot start,so work is continous and you will also get maintenance works for other properties they already have.

 

[jam2020]

I know what you mean, I'm not worried about the job I've run much bigger sites on my own for my former boss it's just the price where I'm a bit green. What would you say is average per point?

 

[Johno]

If you feel unsure, my advice would be to walk away. Though it sounds like a dream job, there is so much to consider you are bound to get caught out on something and I am assuming that the guys paying you are not strangers to this kind of job.

Either that or go in high with the price so if you do get it then you have a bit in reserve.

Good luck, where in the country are you?

 

[jam2020]

in dorset,as i said the job doesnt bother me i was left to run a redrow site when i was 17 so keeping up with 24 flats would be a doddle, literally just how to price it thats the problem.

 

[IQ Electrical]

I can tell you from experience that you need to obtain a programme of works from the main contractor/client.

Without a programme, you could turn up on site when the buildings are weatherproof and be expected to start first fixing 10 flats at once!

That's when your price goes up in smoke as you turn to labour agencies and subbies in an effort to stop 20 dry liners from claiming standing time!

So get a programme, work out a decent price per flat and negotiate some decent payment terms with your wholesaler to offset the fact that you'll probably be on 30-60 days payment terms for your works.

 

[jam2020]

well pricem has gone in,worked out around 2k per plot which i didnt think was to bad but we'll see!!

 

[jam2020]

got it!!! get in!!

 

[malcolmsanford]

Well done .....................though 2k was low hope it don't come back to haunt you. Was that inc materials

 

[andekoch]

good one, sure you can find help on the forum if you need it. good luck could be the kick start your business needs to get going.

 

[robswainelect]

Good luck, hope you get it!