Means Residential Detailed Costs: Contractor's Pricing Guide 2004

Rating:
Summary: Effective, but tests your patience
Review: Essentially, a quality reference book. I'm a remodeler and general contractor in Madison, WI. I've used this book to establish budgetary figures for homes I buy, renovate and flip. Being accurate with this book means being patient and flipping back and forth to find every little detail, but the time pays off - Means brings me in at or just above my actual costs. Couldn't ask for much more, except the layout according to the CSI Master Format doesn't make it easy to find all the right items and numbers. Also, Means doesn't allow for things like the style, height or complexity of the roof when determining cost to install shingles - so just be careful and remember to add in that contingency at the end. And don't forget to add local sales tax, if you have to pay it. (In my opinion, this book is better than Means Residential Repair and Remodel guide - that book gives you less options. However, it is organized they way you might layout a project. It's also easier to get a final number, but you defintely have to up your contingency factor because it's not as accurate.) If you're a remodeler, buy Detailed Residential Costs and use it - it'll save you time and money in the long run.