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Cost estimation

The process of forecasting the cost of completing a construction project.

Cost estimation involves predicting the financial resources required for a project, guiding budgeting and decision-making. Accurate estimates are crucial for financial planning, securing funding, and managing project costs. They influence bidding strategies, project viability, and stakeholder confidence, requiring continuous updates and adjustments to reflect changes in scope, market conditions, and project progress to ensure financial control and success.

Used in a sentence

Accurate cost estimation is crucial for preparing a competitive bid.

Synonyms/variation
  • Budgeting

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Learn more about Cost estimation

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Estimate vs. Budget: Tools to Guide Construction Financial Planning

Whether building a residential home, a commercial complex or a large-scale infrastructure development, understanding and managing costs is key to completing a project on time and within financial limits. Effective financial planning allows project managers to handle unexpected challenges and maintain client trust. Two primary tools in financial planning for construction are the estimate and […]

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Key Types of Estimates in Construction

The challenge of determining the cost of building a construction project can seem like an impossible task. Considering the unique nature of each project and the fact that material and labor prices change constantly, it’s virtually impossible to calculate future rework or delay costs. It’s as if estimators have some kind of psychic ability just […]

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Construction Estimating Methods: Techniques for Predicting Costs with Confidence

While construction is an industry that relies on technical prowess and accuracy, it also regularly uses guesswork. Both general contractors and specialty contractors have to estimate how much a project will require of them to accurately bill the appropriate party.  At the end of the day, construction projects rely on guesses — but fortunately, these […]

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Heavy Civil Construction Estimating: Strategies and Challenges

Accurately estimating the costs of heavy civil construction projects requires a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges and complexities involved. From vast project scopes to intricate regulatory requirements, heavy civil construction estimating differs significantly from non-heavy civil projects.  This article aims to illuminate these differences, offering detailed insights into the essential aspects of heavy civil […]

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