Home Renovation Quotes Comparing Apples to Apples: A Case Study

Ask a Renovation Expert, Markham & Toronto Home Renovation Costs

You've got a project in mind, but you're not sure what it will cost and where to start. Most homeowners looking to complete a home renovation will ask for a quote from a few contractors before deciding on which one to hire. You may find that some quotes are extremely high, many fall around a middle point, and some appear deceptively affordable. These ranges can leave you wondering if you are even comparing the same thing!

Understanding Renovation Quotes

Your contractor's expertise and experience play a pivotal role in this quoting process. A renovation quote is more than just a simple calculation of materials and labor; it's a detailed forecast that considers the complexity of the job, the quality of materials, and the unique challenges of your space.

At Master Edge Homes, we understand that every home is unique. That's why we approach each renovation estimate with a personalized touch, ensuring it reflects the true scope of your project. Whether it's a bathroom renovation, a kitchen overhaul, or main floor remodeling, we meticulously account for every detail. Our commitment to accuracy helps prevent unexpected costs, ensuring your renovation project aligns with your financial expectations from the start. Living room with office view in Markham home renovation by Master Edge Homes

A Case Study from Dwayne Butler, the Visionary Behind Master Edge Homes

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet with a couple planning on renovating their basement. They were requesting an estimate for their project. I gave them a figure based on the scope of work they provided and as our discussion continued, it was evident the budget wasn't going to be enough. I shared my thoughts and mentioned there could be ways to help align the scope of work with the budget. I was aware that this potential client, as do many others, was also gathering additional quotes from other contractors. It turned out that the other quotes the client had received were also much higher than their budget but nowhere near the cost of mine. As with every client, I took the time to go through the breakdown of the costs with this client to ensure he understood what each quote included exactly.

Bid Leveling: Key Differences Accounting for the Renovation Quote Ranges

As always, the difference was in the details. Bid leveling is a crucial step in the renovation process, yet it's one that's often overlooked. It involves comparing different contractors' quotes line by line to ensure each bid accounts for the same work scope, materials, and quality. Without bid leveling, you might find yourself comparing apples to oranges, making it challenging to make an informed decision. For this client, key structural details we identified and included in the budget accounted for the main differences in these bids.

Firstly, the client wanted a floating subfloor. With 2 different ways to build a subfloor, my competitor quoted the homeowner on the less expensive option, which limited the client's choices when finishing the floor. This meant that the client would be limited in the opportunity to choose hardwood or tiles as an option—this detail was the first major price difference in our quotes.

The second key area of difference was how we approached the planning for the existing frame of the basement. Because this was an older home, I was aware that the existing frame was dried out and warped and would not meet the Ontario Building Code requirements for insulation values. Therefore, my quote included the removal and replacement of the existing framing. However, the competing contractor planned on leaving the existing frame- a less expensive option that would cause a defect in the appearance of the drywall and not meet the Building Code standards. As a result, the client could have to pay an extra charge to fix this problem when it became apparent to the less thoughtful contractor.

The Advantage of Master Edge Homes' Design-Build Approach

One distinguishing feature of Master Edge Homes is our integrated design-build renovation service, a method that sets us apart from traditional contractor-only bids. Unlike the typical approach where design and construction services are sourced separately, our design-build model encapsulates the entire project lifecycle under one roof. This holistic approach ensures that every aspect of your renovation—from initial concept to final construction—is seamlessly aligned with your vision and budget. Front view of Muskoka cottage renovation with white porch posts

The inclusion of design services in our bids offers a comprehensive overview of the project cost upfront. This is crucial for homeowners looking to undertake renovations, as it eliminates the guesswork and potential for cost overruns often associated with separating design and construction phases. Our method ensures that the designs we propose are not only beautiful and functional but also realistically achievable within your budget.

In contrast, engaging an architect for design and a separate builder for construction lacks the built-in safeguard of our design-build model. Without the early collaboration between designer and builder, there's a risk of developing plans that are either over budget or require significant compromises to build. Our integrated process at Master Edge Homes means that from the outset, every design decision is informed by construction expertise, budget considerations, and the goal of maximizing value for our clients.

As you can see, quotes from different contractors vary greatly, so what can you do as a homeowner? I highly recommend that once you’re happy with the number of quotes you’ve gathered, decide on your best two and ask for both of these contractors to walk you through all of the details. This will make it easier to compare and really understand exactly what you are getting. Working with a contractor is all about trust, and an honest contractor will be more than willing to take the time to discuss your quote. It is important to know what you are getting in order to ensure that things are done the right way the first time. Built-in entertainment system in Markham living room renovation with mounted TV

Leveling Up Your Home with Confidence

Choosing the right contractor for your home renovation project is a significant decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Armed with the right information and a clear understanding of renovation estimates and bid leveling, you can approach your project with confidence. Remember, a trustworthy contractor will always be willing to walk you through their quote, explaining the nuances and ensuring you fully understand what you're getting.

At Master Edge Homes, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality, transparency, and personalized service. Whether it's a bathroom renovation, a luxurious kitchen remodel, or an elegant main floor renovation, we're dedicated to bringing your vision to life. Contact Master Edge Homes today. Let's create something remarkable together.