HERE’S HOW WE SORTED IT OUT
Three proposals. What was she actually buying?
We started with the changes she wanted most: a larger shower, better storage, and lighting that worked for getting ready. Then we checked where each proposal addressed them.
Three proposals, three interpretations
- $39,800: Largely preserved the existing layout, with modest allowances for selections she had not made.
- $56,400: Included the larger shower, better storage, lighting changes, custom glass, and more finish work.
- $74,200: Included design services, upgraded selections, extensive cabinetry, additional electrical work, and work beyond the bathroom.
“We don’t even want to do that area yet,” she said, looking at the highest proposal.
One proposal left out a change she wanted most. Another included work she had never intended to buy. The totals were not enough to tell her which was the right project.
Together, we put the shower dimensions, storage, lighting, and work boundaries in writing. We identified unfinished selections, checked what the allowances covered, and called out exclusions that could become additional costs.
She sent the same scope back to the contractors and asked them to explain what would change in their proposals. She also asked who would manage the work and answer her questions.
The prices still differed. Now she could follow those differences and decide where to spend and where to pull back. Before signing, she could show her husband what they were actually buying.
What to check before choosing a contractor
Write down the three things that made you want to remodel. Then find where the proposal addresses each one. If you cannot find it, ask before you sign.
Check the work included, allowances for unfinished selections, exclusions, and who will manage the project. You do not need every finish selected, but you do need to understand whether the proposed work solves your problem.
You can like the contractor and still want help understanding the proposal. Asking questions now gives both of you a clearer place to start.
A contractor’s estimate tells you what that company proposes to build and charge. My advisory service helps you check whether it matches your priorities, identify missing items, and understand your options before you commit.
Not sure what your proposal includes—or what to ask next?
Have a proposal that leaves you unsure? Start with a free 20-minute call. Tell me what you want to accomplish and what is concerning you. We’ll talk about your next step and whether I can help.
If you are still figuring out where to start, or work is already underway and something feels off, you are welcome to call too.
20 years working in construction management
California General Contractor · BristolCo · CSLB #1070344
Woman-owned · Serving Orange County
From our construction clients
“I loved that they shared every single sub bid with me. Finally, a contractor who doesn’t hide costs.”
Jennifer M. · Laguna Hills
“Master Build Advisor did an excellent job. They were professional and accommodating to any adjustments in the work scope. I will be using them for future home projects.”
Kevin S. · Laguna Niguel, CA
BOOK A FREE 20-MINUTE CALL
Book a free 20-minute phone call with Kelli
Not ready to talk? Get the free Remodel Planning Guide to organize your priorities, budget, timeline, and scope.
Missed the beginning?
She had already told her husband they might finally be able to remodel the bathroom.
For months, they had been putting it off. Then a proposal came in at $39,800, and she started thinking about what it would feel like to have the work finished.
No more keeping towels in the hallway. No more getting ready under the light that cast a shadow across her face.
And finally, a shower she could move around in.
The other proposals were $56,400 and $74,200. She put those aside.
She wasn’t looking for a luxury bathroom. She just wanted the room to work better. The first contractor seemed perfectly capable, and she liked him.
Her husband asked why the prices were so far apart.
“I think the other two included more expensive stuff,” she said.
“Do we need more expensive stuff?”
“No.”
That seemed to settle it.
But before she called the contractor, she opened his proposal again.
Demolition. Plumbing fixtures. Vanity. Tile. Painting.
Bathroom remodel.
It sounded like what they had discussed.
She read it a second time, looking for the larger shower.
There was a shower in the proposal. There were allowances for materials. She couldn’t find anything about changing its size.
Maybe that was understood. She remembered standing in the bathroom with him and explaining how cramped it felt.
She nearly closed the document.
Instead, she sent a message.
“Just checking before we move forward. This includes making the shower bigger, right?”
Illustrative composite based on common remodeling situations. Dialogue and prices are examples. Bathroom photo is for illustration.