Is it wrong to negotiate with a contractor to get then to lower there estimate?

Answer 1

No, there is nothing wrong with asking a contractor if he can provide a better quote. Most times I'm sure they would be willing to move a bit on the price. You should get at least 3 quotes for the project. All quotes should be in writing and provide you with the smallest details so both parties know exactly what is to take place. To compare apples to apples it is best if you provide a drawing with detailed specifications, maybe through an architect or designer, that way all the contractors are bidding on the same thing. There are other things that may affect a contractors pricing that you should be considering such as,
- are they properly licensed
- are they properly insured
- what are their qualifications
- are they bonded for deposits
- are they using their own qualified people or sub contracting out
different parts the project
- are the sub contractors all of the above
- do they have references and are you free to contact them

If all your questions are answered by the contractor you choose to your satisfaction you should have a pleasent experience. Remember the smallest details are important. And it should all be in writing! Relying on " but he said " after the project is started will only lead to problems! Get it all up front.

Answer 2

I've been a contractor for many years, and sadly I disagree with Pennie.

Certainly there are Pirates out there, but MOST OF US have lives, dreams, goals, issues, and needs that parallel yours. I expect a fair compensation for my work, and because my efforts are my advertising, and reference, as well as my income, I doubt I'd get as much work if I cheated customers.

Your thought,,, and others,,, is to get a job for the best price possible. The very word Negotiation means a mutual experience. I quote a price based on my experience, skills, current wage levels for my trades, and what I feel is fair. YOU want the work done for what you can afford, perhaps because you are unable to DIY, and often to get work done for less than a contractors bid, perhaps because you're inexperienced in what a job might actually COST the contractor.

Not intending to insult you, I offer this. I charge anywhere from $25 to $40 per hour. Factors that cause the variance are things like timing, materials fluctuations, difficulties, and so often the customer wanting to be my foreman, while I work.

I'm not opposed to being flexible to a degree, and always suggest one get multiple bids. Depending on circumstances I might lower a bid,,,as long as you don't offer to help, or you supply some materials,,, or your bottom line doesn't cause me to leave the job with less than I'm worth.

Honesty is a law, not a subjective choice. I'm very willing to walk away from a job if a customer thinks I bid high. I don't need work desperately. I also suggest to you, or anyone,,,"What do you think the job is worth?" "Could you DO the job, for what you're willing to pay?" ETC.

Reverse of that is when I truly don't want your job, I might bid it High to cause you to turn down my services.

Rev. Steven

Answer 3

Ask yourself this question,do you personally know of anyone who shopped for the lowest price and was happy with the finished product? Probably not. NEVER take the lowest price, or the highest. If you stay in the middle you are usually getting the best value. As others have said, a man has to make a living. When I quote a job, people have grand ideas until I give them the price.Think about what you REALLY need done and if your project can be done in phases that better suit your budget .

Answer 4

No. You should get a fair and understandable explanation why you are being charged the amount that you are, but keep in mind that the expense and difficulty of running a contracting business is increasing rapidly. I am an electrician, and the business is much more technical and requires a lot more knowledge and tools than 20 yrs ago (I was in it then, too.)
Let the man make a profit and a living, but he should explain it and it should be fair. Get more than 1 estimate, and beware if one guy is a LOT cheaper, it has to be corner cutting.

Answer 5

No, but by the time they get done the price is going to be more than you agreed to anyway. You can always try another contractor to get a lower price.

Answer 6

absolutely not. I am a contractor and it happens all the time. And many times, I lower my price. So go ahead and negotiate.

Answer 7

I don't think its wrong. Either they will come down or they won't. There are plenty of contractors out there, so if they want the business then I would think they would be willing to bargain. Remember you are hiring them!

Answer 8

No of course not. If you don't you may end up a getting a unfair price. one thing i have learned is if they are willing to lower there price its most likely the fair price they should have offered in the first place.

Answer 9

no, but if you know he's hungry for the work and takes the job at the reduced rate and can't finish your the one who will pay because the next contractor will add extra if you can find one who wants an unfinished job. pay him what he want's and make sure you get what you want.

Answer 10

we live in america we just take what they give us and shut our mouths at least that is what merchants would have us be;ieve.
Every where in the world people pride them selves on getting the lowest price only here do people brag they paid more.
I negotiate all the time, be sure you know what you are doing and get it all in writing.