Bid Comparison Tool
Enter 2–4 contractor quotes line by line and compare them side by side — with the items each bid leaves out, price-spread outliers, and the red flags to check before you sign.
The hardest part of hiring a contractor isn't getting quotes — it's comparing them. Every contractor structures a bid differently, so the cheapest bottom line is often the one that quietly left out permits, debris haul-off, or a finish allowance. This tool puts 2 to 4 bids on one shared line-item table, shows you exactly what each one is missing, and flags the terms worth a second look.
Build your target number first with the Renovation Budget Estimator and the Cost per Square Foot Calculator, then bring the quotes here. For the bigger picture on hiring, read the DIY vs contractor cost guide and what hidden renovation costs to expect.
FAQ
- How do I compare contractor bids fairly?
- Line them up item by item, not just by the bottom line. A cheaper bid is often cheaper because it left out permits, haul-off, or an allowance another bid included. This tool builds a shared line-item table and flags exactly what each bid is missing so you can get everyone quoting the same scope.
- What counts as a red flag in a contractor quote?
- A deposit over about a third of the total, no stated labor warranty, no confirmed license or insurance, and a total that's far below the others (usually a sign of missing scope, not a bargain). The tool flags each of these from the terms you enter.
- Does the tool pick the best bid?
- No — on purpose. It surfaces gaps and risks and leaves the decision to you, because the lowest price is frequently the worst deal. Weigh price against the missing items, warranty, timeline, and references.
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