Self build estimating service gets projects off in right footing

People embarking on a self-build project who want to get an accurate idea on how much it will cost can make use of a new self-build estimating service that has been launched in conjunction with the country’s leading developer of estimating software.

It will mean those wanting to get a totally accurate idea on how much their dream home will cost can do so by simply getting in touch with a team of estimators who will then work out exactly the cost of the project right down to the last nail, door or u-bend!

All that’s required is a set of plans of the project which the estimator will use to work out the estimate.

This new service, which is called My Building Project Estimating Service, has been developed by Homebuilding & Renovating magazine in partnership with HBXL and its EstimatorXpress estimating software which is now the leading software of its kind in the country.

Totally impartial, the service works by the estimator scanning in the plans of the project which are then traced over using HBXL’s PlansXpress CAD-based design software. Once that is complete, the plans are then imported automatically into EstimatorXpress which then works out the estimate.

The customer will then receive a detailed report within 10 days outlining a summary of the project’s cost, detailed cost breakdown for materials, plant and labour, detailed cost breakdown of each build phase, cash flow projection, 3D visuals of the plans and a timeline of when each part of the project will take place.

Using material prices which are downloaded daily via the internet from a series of regional and national builder’s merchants means all quotes produced use prices of the day.

It will allow self-builders to really get to grips with the cost of their project early on and because no aspect of the build programme is missed, means no surprises later on during the build. It will also help with securing the loan required to fund the project.

Anthony Botibol, marketing manager at HBXL said: “The issue many self builders encounter is not budgeting enough for the project. Because our software is so accurate means they will get a true reflection of what it will cost.

“It’s imperative that those looking to build their dream home know where the money is going. There’s nothing worse than realising half way through a project that the budget you had will not cover the cost. This new service is simple, great value and gives complete peace of mind.”

Anthony’s concerns are well founded with research by HBXL showing that 99% of those surveyed said they went over budget when extending, renovating or building a new property.

Of those, 41% went over by up to 5%, 55% went over by between 5% – 10%, with 3% saying they exceeded their budget by 50% or more!

Anthony added: “EstimatorXpress has been developed by a builder with over 30 years experience in the trade and with over 11,000 professional builders using it across the UK speaks for itself.

“All TV self-build programmes highlight the importance of budgeting and this service is an excellent way to make sure nothing is missed and that the person paying the bills knows exactly what to expect.

“No other service can provide the level of detail we can and no other service is as accurate.”

For further information visit mybuildingproject.co.uk.

For further information on any HBXL software, visit hbxl.co.uk.