Spreadsheets for costing

[Big Builder]

I am looking for feedback on the types of speadsheets you use to cost new home construction.? I have been tuning mine for several years trying to include for every contingency but specs are constanly changing. Code
is changing etc.

Does anyone have any good links to compare the system I use versus say
a commerically available spreadsheet?

Thanks

[Rich]

I posted a template awhile back - http://www.construction-resource.com/projects/Est-Template.xls
It's fairly extensive. IMO you'll drive yourself batty trying to include every contingency and/or specification. If you get a new specification for a material - it's most likely just the material name. There's no reason to seperate installation of 6" lap siding from 2 different manufacturers :)
If you get something that's totally new - you may need to setup a temporary code to track the differences in installation costs. Otherwise I would keep it as simple as possible. Track what you need to track - but don't get so specific that you only use the code on 1 out of 20 jobs.

[mmourton]

Can you post a sample job that has been completed so i can get an idea of how to budget. I am building my first home in Dallas, TX and am uncertain about some of the costs. I attached the development budget i have been using. Any comments are greatly appreciated!!

Thanks,
Mike

[Cole]

Welcome to the forum.

[rgramjet]

Mike, I think you have a great, easy to follow sheet. Id stick with what you are using.

[RMONK92591]

I have a new software that hold most of the calulators on one page- with spreedsheets you get several pages to keep clicking on....this software- will calulate -concrete footer-walls-brick-block- carpet-paint-area's-and much more. Once you put in your totals...36 feet x 24 feet it will transfer them to the bid sheet. Has data base-that can be changed on the fly- customers name-search-notes-and more. You can customize to fit your type of business. Version # 2 coming out this month will estimate walls- framing and much more-talking help section. You can see the version 1 on eEbay.http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7504747550&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT

RDM