Determine Feasibility with Preliminary Estimates
Don't wait until the architectural drawings are 100% complete to find out the project is over budget. We provide highly accurate conceptual costs based on historical data and parametric modeling.
Estimating Without Blueprints
Estimating a fully engineered set of plans is easy. Estimating a project that only exists as a concept requires deep industry knowledge and massive amounts of historical data. We specialize in the gray areas of early-stage design.
1. Conceptual / Narrative
You provide the location, square footage, and intended use (e.g., "50,000 sq ft Class A Office in Dallas"). We provide the baseline budget using historical square-foot assemblies.
2. Schematic Design (SD)
At 15-30% design, major systems are identified. We perform high-level takeoffs of the building envelope, structural systems, and apply parametric allowances for MEP.
3. Design Development (DD)
At 50-80% design, materials are selected. We refine the takeoffs, replacing historical allowances with hard material and labor costs to lock in the final budget.
No Blueprints? No Problem.
If you are a developer looking to secure land, an architect trying to keep a design within a client's budget, or an owner securing financing, you need reliable numbers now.
Use the form to upload your project narrative, early schematic sketches, or pro forma details. Our senior estimators will review the concept and provide a fixed-fee quote to build the preliminary estimate.
- ✓ Secure Construction Loans
- ✓ Validate Pro Forma ROI
- ✓ Prevent Costly Redesigns
Submit Your Narrative
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Preliminary Estimating FAQs
What do you need to provide a preliminary estimate?
We can build a preliminary estimate from as little as a napkin sketch, a written project narrative, or 10% schematic design documents. We rely heavily on our historical cost database.
How accurate is an estimate without blueprints?
Conceptual estimates typically carry a variance of +/- 15% to 20%. As the design progresses through the Schematic and Design Development phases, that variance shrinks significantly.
Do you break out the costs by trade?
Yes. Even at the conceptual phase, we use historical parametric models to break the total square-foot cost down into CSI divisions, giving you a clear picture of what the structural vs. MEP systems will cost.