The 3-Minute Bid Review That Saves You Thousands

The clock is ticking. You’ve already spent way more time than you expected to on this estimate, and your dry, itchy eyes make staring at the bright light of your computer screen feel unbearable. All you want is to be done—to send it off and move on to the next task of the day.

I’ve been in that situation more times than I can count, and one lesson stands out: a second set of eyes is always worth it. Every single time, having someone review my estimate before sending it has caught mistakes, improved clarity, or even saved me from costly errors.

🏗️ The Build

If you’re serious about producing high-quality, consistent estimates, make this a non-negotiable step in your process. Develop a simple Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that includes a final review before any estimate goes out. It’s a small habit that can have a big impact on your bottom line.

At some point in the near future I will compile a checklist here, feel free to use it and modify it to fit your needs. Some high level items to start with would include the following:

• Scope - Do you have all of the necessary scope captured and estimated?

• Labor Hours - Does the overall timeline feel right? Is it realistic and reasonable?

• Big Ticket Items - Double check pricing on overly expensive line items.

• Spelling and Grammar - Make sure what you are presenting is professional.

• Formulas - Did you mess up any of your formulas? (Double check this one)

• Markups - This one will bite you, be sure you are correctly calculating your markups. Not only the calculations but also make sure you are marking up all items that need it.

Taking a few extra minutes for a final review can be the difference between a profitable job and a costly mistake. By making checking part of your process, you’ll not only protect your margins but also strengthen your reputation for accuracy and professionalism.

🛠️ Tools of the Trade

• Any improvement you can make to your workflow will save you money. If you find a specific part of estimating is taking too much time, make a change. Make small adjustments in your process and see where you can pick up efficiencies.

• Leverage technology in your business. Tools like laser measuring devices, phone applications and scheduling software can take a complex task and make it simple. 

• Stay organized, use folder systems for both digital and paper records. Dollars are flying out the window when time is unnecessarily wasted.

📊 Estimators Edge

• Impact of Tariffs on Construction Costs

  Recent U.S. tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China are expected to increase costs for homebuilders, particularly affecting materials like lumber, steel, and concrete. These increased costs could exacerbate the housing affordability crisis in the U.S.
  Source: Investopedia.

• Technological Advancements

  The construction industry is rapidly transforming, driven by technological advancements and environmental concerns. The adoption of AI, BIM, VR/AR, 3D printing, and data analytics is increasing.
  Source: Cemex Ventures

• Residential Construction Spending Rebound

  Forecasts indicate a rebound in residential construction, with single-family construction spending projected to grow by 13.1% in 2025 and 12.4% in 2026. Multifamily construction spending is also expected to increase, with growth rates of 9.5% in 2025 and 17% in 2026.
  Source: PHCP Pros

✅ Punch List:

• Quick Tip – See if the software you use has a “dark mode” it is easier on your eyes.

• 🔗 Worth a Click – The most trusted residential builder in 2025 according to Builder is Taylor Morrison.

• 👀 Question for You: Do you have a way to check your estimates? Respond and let us know what has worked well for you.